Bulking Up – Using Mezzanine Levels for Bulk Storage

The term “bulk storage” generally refers to a medium to large warehouse space for storing large items, or large quantities of stock. Pallet racking is often thought of as the best option for bulk storage, however mezzanine systems are becoming increasingly popular as well. Mezzanines are versatile, make use of vertical space, and are perfect for storing items that don’t fit well in racks.

What to store:

You can use mezzanines to store voluminous, awkward, long, or heavy inventory, as well as excess stock from bulk orders. Whatever your needs you can design and install a system to accommodate. Dangerous goods can be stored on a mezzanine level too, but there are safety concerns. You must ensure that procedures are put in place to control the risks associated with dangerous goods. Storing on a mezzanine does mean there will be some double handling, as stock is loaded on to the mezzanine level and then into shelving or pallet spots. Therefore only store heavy items that are slow movers to minimise the risk of injury to staff. In fact mezzanine bulk storage is best for slow moving stock in general, as well as seasonal items. This way stock is conveniently stored out of the way, but still available when access is needed.

On the mezzanine:

Stock can be lifted on and off the mezzanine with a forklift, a mobile platform, hoists, chutes, rollers, conveyors, or a goods lift. All of these options provide quick and safe access for stock, protecting your staff as well as inventory. Once on the mezzanine level, pallet rollover safety gates offer the highest level of safety. Easy to use, they provide a safe loading area on the edge of the mezzanine at all times. You can install the easier option of sliding gates, but they may not be the safest option in situations where pallet traffic on the mezzanine level is heavy. Swing gates are great where sliding gates can’t be used, however they are also prone to being left open while pallets are being broken down. To solve this issue, design your mezzanine level so your staff can move whole pallets around with a pallet jack, rather than needing to break pallets down at the mezzanine edge.

Flooring Material

The following flooring options are the most practical options to go with for bulk storage, as they can withstand the use of pallet jacks better than other flooring options:

• Compressed Fibre Cement—impact, sound, and rot resistant (best option for heavy goods)
• Plywood—strong, light, and comfortable to walk on (best option for general excess stock)
• Checker plate—strong, durable, and non-slip (best option for dangerous goods)

Properly designed mezzanines, are a perfect solution for bulk storage areas. They create a storage area above and leave room for shelving, a racking system, or production space below. Whatever your bulk storage and warehouse requirements—whether you have too much stock or you’re trying to fit odd shaped stock in to every nook and cranny—the friendly staff at Dynamic can discuss solutions with you today.