When it comes to storage and supplies, it’s all about accessibility. Storing supplies on traditional shelving units will keep them out of your way when you don’t need them. However, they are little to no help when you need access to these supplies. This is where mobile shelving comes into play. Combining the storage space of shelving with the convenience of a utility cart, mobile shelving is your go-to storage solution.
In many work environments, it can be a challenge to store and manage your materials without your space getting cluttered and unwieldy. When making your shelving decisions, it’s important to think about both the present and the future. That is why mobile shelving is the best of both worlds. Mobile shelving changes how your existing space works. Rather than you going to the inventory, the inventory comes to you. It is a complete game changer.
What is Mobile Shelving?
Mobile shelving - as the name implies - refers to shelving units designed with motion in mind. Mobile shelving units are typically equipped with wheels or casters, allowing them to be easily transported from one location to the other. The term is sometimes used interchangeably with “high-density shelving.” While there is a lot of overlap, not all mobile shelves are high density. High density shelving is specifically designed to maximize storage space by using movable shelving units on tracks to pack the space as densely as possible. While high density shelving features tracks, mobile shelving has wheels to maximize the range of movement. In addition, mobile shelving can double as a utility cart to bring product and supplies to the worker more easily.
Before you decide on what sort of storage you need, it’s important to do a full assessment of your needs. If you need easy access to tools or materials, a utility cart may be your best bet. Utility carts tend to be smaller, designed for material handling. Mobile shelving can function in somewhat the same way, but also feature the space and customizability for storage as well as functional use. Material is also an important factor. While a classic wire shelf truck may suit your needs, exposure to moisture could result in rusting. That’s why there are other options for mobile shelving, including plastic shelf trucks and steel shelf trucks.
Mobile shelving has all the benefits of stationary shelving with the added bonus of flexibility. You can modify your workspace or storage space to more easily access inventory.
Mobile Shelving Advantages:
It’s customizable. Customizable shelving allows you to tailor the units to fit the specific requirements of your business. Whether you need shelves of varying heights, lockable shelving for added security, or foldable shelving for easy storage when not in use, mobile shelving can be custom-designed to meet your needs.
It brings the inventory to you, not the other way around. Tired of climbing and reaching and straining to get at that one elusive piece of inventory? Mobile shelving is designed to bring your storage to you. By setting up a mobile shelving system that makes sense to your space, you save time and reduce the physical strain on employees.
It gets you organized. An organized space is an underrated but essential element for almost any workspace. Mobile shelving is a great tool to get you and keep you organized. With the ability to adjust shelf heights and configurations, you can create an organized storage system that suits your inventory perfectly.
It enhances efficiency. As we all know, time is money. By making it easier to transport items around your facility, mobile shelving can significantly boost efficiency. Whether moving tools in a workshop, supplies in a warehouse, or ingredients in a commercial kitchen, mobile storage units ensure everything is within easy reach.
Four-side access: In some storage environments, your shelving is up against a wall in the back of a room or amidst aisles and aisles of shelving, cutting off access from different angles. With mobile shelving, you have multiple access points. Unlike traditional shelving, mobile shelving units move to your needs. This makes it easy to access items quickly and efficiently, further enhancing your operational workflow.
It is well-made. Mobile shelving units from GI are built for heavy duty use. They are made from robust materials and feature high-quality casters that ensure smooth and quiet operation. These units can support heavy loads, making them ideal for industrial shelving applications.
It is adjustable and versatile. No two spaces are the same. What’s more - your storage needs today may not be what your demands are next month or next year. Adjustable shelving configurations are the best way to build in flexibility to your storage. As your storage needs change, you can easily reconfigure the shelves to accommodate new items.
It really is the flexibility that makes mobile storage such a smart choice. With unique customization options, you can tailor the shelving to your specific requirements, such as:
- Forkliftable: Designed to be easily moved with a forklift.
- Lockable Shelving: For added security, especially in environments where sensitive or high-value items are stored.
- Foldable Shelving: Able to be broken down for compact storage when not in use.
- Two- and Three- Sided Options: Flexible access depending on space constraints.
Types of Shelving
With mobile shelving, each option has its advantages and disadvantages. Let’s dive in to explore what might be the right choice for you:
Wire Shelf Trucks
Highly versatile and suitable for both wet and dry applications, they come in various wire coatings - chrome, black epoxy, silver epoxy, and zinc-plated finishes. These coatings offer protection against rust and corrosion, making wire shelf trucks ideal for environments like commercial kitchens, laboratories, and healthcare facilities where hygiene is critical. Wire shelving with casters might be a simple and affordable option.
Advantages:
- Durability: Coatings provide rust and corrosion resistance
- Ventilation: The open wire design promotes air circulation, which is ideal for perishable goods
- Visibility: Easy to see and access stored items
Plastic Shelf Trucks
Made from rust- and corrosion-proof polymers, they can also include antimicrobial compounds that inhibit the growth of mold, mildew, and fungi, making them perfect for environments where cleanliness is paramount. Plastic shelf trucks are a breeze to keep clean and are often a good budget option.
Advantages:
- Hygiene: Antimicrobial properties prevent the growth of harmful organisms
- Maintenance: Easy to clean and maintain
- Durability: Resistant to rust and corrosion
Steel Shelf Trucks
Known for their strength and durability, these units can handle heavy loads and withstand the rigors of industrial use. Constructed from high quality metal, steel shelf trucks are easy to clean and often come with multiple tiers of shelving, making them ideal for storing and transporting large quantities of items.
Advantages:
- Strength: Capable of supporting heavy loads
- Durability: Long-lasting and can endure tough working conditions
- Versatility: Multiple tiers provide ample storage space
Mobile Security Trucks
Integral for the efficient handling of goods, these enclosed wire mesh carts are designed for the secure transport of valuable goods and materials. Featuring lockable doors and durable casters
Advantages:
- Safety: Specifically designed to protect high value items
- Flexibilty: Provide ability to move quickly and efficiently
- Visibility: Easily view contents through wire mesh
Casters
Every work environment is different. Be sure to choose casters that suit your workspace. The type and quality of the casters affect mobility. Luckily, there are specialized casters for both indoor and outdoor use. You’ll need different casters rolling around a kitchen than you would a parking lot. Find the right casters to keep you moving.
Mobile shelving is an indispensable tool for facilities and operations that need to maintain organization while also requiring the flexibility to move components, materials and supplies around their facilities. Verticals. With a range of customization options and types designed to suit different environments and applications, mobile shelving from Global Industrial can meet your unique needs. By investing in mobile shelving, you can improve efficiency, enhance organization, and protect your inventory, all while keeping your operations agile and adaptable. Whether you're in food service, healthcare, manufacturing, or retail, there's a mobile shelving solution that can help you optimize your workflow and achieve your business goals.
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