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If clutter and wasted floorspace are affecting the efficiency of your facility, it may be time to rethink your storage solutions. Many people think of traditional stationary storage systems like file cabinets and shelving as the default, but these systems come with a significant drawback – fixed aisles that consume valuable real estate. 

Thankfully, there is a solution: high-density shelving storage systems, also known as compact or movable storage. By replacing fixed aisles movable storage racks, you can eliminate wasted space and allow you to maximize your floor area. In fact, you can expect to double your storage capacity within the same footprint, eliminating the need for costly renovations or expansions.

Movable shelving options are a new and innovative storage solution; they solve a lot of space and organizational problems, but many people are stuck with mental images of long corridors between crowded shelves when they imagine their workspace. That makes it difficult to envision what movable storage might look like, and how it might help your business. If you’re looking for ways to save space and maximize efficiency, read on for some of the best options for using compact movable shelving.

How do mobile shelving systems work?

Mobile shelving units are really wheel and track systems. With tracks embedded in the floor, wheels mounted on the bottoms of shelving units, and one of several means of operation, the system allows the shelves to move back and forth, creating or eliminating aisle space as needed. 

Shelving options

The kind of shelving you need will depend on what you are trying to store and how you need to organize it for easy access. Factors like the overall weight, size, shape, and use of the collection should be considered. 

4 Post Shelving

4-post shelving is a versatile storage system that utilizes four vertical posts connected by horizontal beams to support the shelves. It offers strength and durability, and it’s heavily customizable, making it ideal for all kinds of environments from warehouses to offices, and libraries. 

Cantilever shelving 

Unlike traditional shelving units with horizontal shelves, cantilever shelving uses horizontal arms that extend outward from the uprights with open spaces in between to allow for easy loading and unloading of items. Cantilever shelving is commonly used in warehouses, lumberyards, and retail spaces where storing items like pipes, lumber, furniture, or carpet rolls is necessary.

Modes of Operation

Movement along the embedded tracks is what makes mobile shelving so practically useful; choosing the best way to make that movement happen for your operation will allow your staff to quickly and easily access stored items whenever you need them.

Manual
Manual operation systems allow users to move shelving from side to side on the tracks simply by pulling an attached handle. These systems are cost-effective and easy to install, but work best with lighter loads, since they are human-powered.

Mechanical- Assist
Mechanical assist operation systems use simple physics to lighten the load of moving shelving. A three-spoke rotating handle allows users to move carriages weighing from 4,000 to 10,000lbs with only one pound of effort. Safety options can also be built-in to mechanical-assist systems, helping you secure items when necessary.

Powered
Powered systems use electric motors to move shelving with no more effort than the push of a button. These systems are highly versatile and compatible with a number of interfaces, including standard push-button, infrared capable, secure touchpad aisle access control, or LCD touchscreen control. These options allow for greater security in addition to customization.

Want more information on how to utilize compact movable shelving for higher efficiency in your operations? Contact us today and let’s talk through your needs.