In the fast-paced construction industry, time is money, and space is equally as valuable. An efficient racking layout can mean the difference between a smooth-running site and one plagued by delays, misplaced materials, and safety concerns. At S.E.M.CO, we have spent over four decades perfecting the art (and science) of storage solutions for any sector.
Here is how a space conscious racking layout can supercharge your productivity and keep your projects on track.
1. Plan for the Flow of Work
The first step is mapping out your material handling journey and asking yourself the following:
- Where are materials delivered?
- How often will they be accessed?
- Which items need to be close to the point of use?
By aligning your racking with these flow patterns, you not only reduce unnecessary movement but you also improve picking speeds.
2. Choose the Right Racking for the Right Material
On site – whether it is a warehouse, yard or retail space, not all materials are created equal nor for the same purpose:
Cantilever Racking
Ideal for storing long, bulky items such as timber, steel, and piping.
Pallet Racking
Perfect for palletised loads or mixed inventory requiring selectivity.
Heavy-Duty Gondola Shelving
For retail, hand-held items, tools and small components.
S.E.M.CO PRO TIP: Combining multiple racking types in a strategic layout often yields the best results.
3. Think Vertically — Use Every Inch
Ground space is limited, but height is often underutilised and therefore by incorporating higher racking with appropriate access equipment, you:
- Increase storage capacity without expanding footprint.
- Keep less frequently used items higher up and prime stock at waist height for easy reach.
4. Design with Safety in Mind
A productive site is a safe site. S.E.M.CO ensures every installation meets SEMA standards and accounts for:
- Adequate aisle widths for operational forklift vehicles.
- Load signage and clear labelling.
- Protected end frames and barriers to reduce collision damage.
5. Future-Proof Your Layout
Projects, no matter the size in which they start as, always evolve, so should your storage. Design your racking so it can be:
- Reconfigured for different phases of work.
- Expanded if project demands increase.
- Adapted for new materials or changes in workflow.
6. Work with Experts from Day One
While it is tempting to treat racking as “just racking”, poorly planned layouts can lead to bottlenecks, damaged goods, and increased costs. Our team at S.E.M.CO offers:
- On-site surveys.
- Bespoke CAD designs tailored to your site.
- In-house UK manufacturing for quality and quick lead times.
- Safe, certified installation by experienced crews.
Bottom Line
Space conscious racking layouts are not just about storing materials, they ae about creating a seamless, efficient, and safe workflow that keeps your construction site running at peak performance.
Ready to boost your site productivity?
Contact S.E.M.CO today to design a layout that works as hard as you do.