Multi-Level Handling Systems Are Taking Things To New Heights

In any type of warehouse environment, time is money. Warehouses are under pressure to streamline processes, enhance efficiencies and implement solutions that will allow them to store more products and materials and also enhance the picking, placement, and retrieval of such materials. While there are a number of material handling solutions that can automate material handling, storage solutions often prove more difficult to come by – especially in a confined warehouse space.

That’s where building up – rather than out – can make a big difference. Multi-level handling systems represent a warehouse modernization solution that can help warehouse managers reduce labor costs, increase throughput and store more products under their roof. In this post, we’ll explain what multi-level handling systems are, their value in the warehouse environment, and more. Here’s a look at what you need to know:

What are Multi-Level Handling Systems?

As the name implies, a multi-level handling system is a storage and retrieval system that’s able to work on more than one level. As maximizing warehouse space becomes all the more important, multi-level handling systems permit managers to store products and materials vertically rather than take up space on the floor.

These vertical warehouse storage solutions often use a combination of shelf units and racking, with mezzanines helping to create multiple levels. Other accessories and components that might make up the multi-level system include stairs, safety gates, flooring, and ventilation systems, among others. What’s also nice is that these multi-level warehouse solutions can also be customized to suit the needs and footprint of any warehouse.

Key Benefits of Multi-Level Handling Storage in Warehouse Environments

Aside from taking storage and inventory solutions vertical and maximizing space, there are a number of other benefits associated with multi-level handling storage solutions in warehouse settings. For instance:

• Accessibility: Thanks to mezzanine levels and stairs, multi-level systems are easily accessible by warehouse workers. These storage solutions can also be configured with material handling solutions to further automate placement and retrieval.
• Flexibility: As we noted in the previous section, multi-level systems are highly flexible. They can be designed to fit into any existing warehouse environment and are flexible and adjustable to adapt to changes and any other modifications along the way. Levels can be customized via addition, removal, or raising or lowering floors. Such systems can also be designed to integrate seamlessly with workflows. Finally, keep in mind that “multi” refers to more than one. While some multi-level systems may only consist of two floors, others may consist of three or four.
• Efficiency: Similar to how big cities built up as more people began to move to them to maximize space, multi-level handling systems represent a vertical storage solution in the warehouse environment. It’s no secret that space is at a premium in the warehouse environment, and making efficient use of said space is crucial – especially if there’s no capital to expand or acquire any additional warehouse space. Multi-level systems allow managers to build up rather than build out.
• Lean: Multi-level storage solutions can help a warehouse on its lean journey. That is, if a warehouse is serious about implementing lean principles, eliminating time wasted, and enhancing productivity, such systems may represent a wise investment.

Is a Multi-Level System Right for You?

Multi-level handling systems are applicable in any type of warehouse or storage environment, ranging from eCommerce facilities to retail storage to the conventional warehouse. If you’re interested in a multi-level storage system for your warehouse environment, contact A-Lined Handling Systems today for more information and to get started.