Storage requirements can vary considerably across a warehouse, production area or distribution operation. The right combination of containers and handling equipment can make it easier to store, move and access stock as part of the working day.
© Solent Plastics
This month’s special offers provide an opportunity to review existing storage and handling requirements, whether you’re looking to add to an established system or prepare for changing demands.
Making stacked containers easier to move
We don’t often have special offer dollies - especially when they’re already the cheapest in the UK! Once several containers are loaded and stacked vertically, moving them can soon become impractical.
Designed around the standard 600 x 400mm Euro container format, the Euro plastic stacking dolly can be incorporated into existing Euro container systems without introducing a different base size: its 620 x 420mm external dimensions will accommodate the container. At £23.95 excluding VAT, what a practical way to add mobile handling to an existing Euro container setup.
This can be particularly useful when replenishing workstations, moving components between production stages or preparing goods for despatch.
Containers for small but important stock
Not every item needs a large storage box. In fact, putting small components into a container that is too large can create its own problems. Items become mixed together, identification takes longer and partially filled boxes can occupy more space than the stock itself really requires.
The 10-litre UTZ RAKO Euro plastic stacking container has a 400 x 300mm external footprint and measures 120mm high, with internal dimensions of 358 x 258 x 114mm. Available for £3.45 excluding VAT, it has a 15kg load capacity and can support up to 120kg when stacked.
This plastic tote box has a compact capacity and standard Euro format, making it particularly useful for smaller components, fittings, fasteners, production parts and other stock that benefits from being separated into manageable quantities.
The internal dimensions are also worth considering when deciding what to store inside, particularly where components need to be accessed without filling a larger container unnecessarily. For businesses using several containers for different parts, the consistent dimensions can make it easier to work within an established shelving or storage layout.
Used ALC containers: another type of practical storage
Used attached lid containers are not always readily available, making our 44-litre super strong ALC tote box an interesting option for businesses looking for a more economical approach to additional storage. At £7.95 excluding VAT, it’s a cost-effective option for businesses looking to add to their existing storage provision.
This heavy duty plastic container has a 600 x 400mm external footprint and measures 250mm high, with internal dimensions of 530 x 355 x 228mm. It has a load capacity of up to 35kg, providing useful capacity for heavier components, equipment and general stock that needs to remain contained between uses.
Choosing used storage can be a practical option where appearance is not a primary consideration. It keeps existing products in circulation for longer, while giving businesses an alternative to purchasing new containers throughout.
With busier periods approaching, October can also be a useful time to review storage requirements before additional capacity is needed. Checking what is already in use, where storage is becoming limited and which stock needs to remain readily accessible can help identify where extra capacity would have the greatest practical benefit, particularly before temporary increases in stock levels or activity.
Choosing storage and handling equipment together
The three products can be considered as part of a wider storage system rather than as separate purchases. Combining different container sizes and handling equipment can help create a setup suited to different types of stock and stages of the working process.
When comparing storage options, it is worth looking beyond capacity alone. External dimensions determine how equipment will fit within the available space, while internal dimensions indicate how much usable room is available for stock. Load capacity is also important where heavier contents or stacked containers are involved.
How often are the contents required? Components used regularly may benefit from smaller containers positioned close to the point of use, while less regularly handled stock can be stored further away without taking up valuable workstation space.