Manufacturing Industry Storage Solutions

In most manufacturing environments, selective pallet racking is the central storage system, the “hero” of the layout. It’s used for both palletised incoming and outgoing goods, with picking and packing zones positioned nearby for smaller parts or finished items. It’s also common to see assembly areas or production zones located close to racking for convenience and efficiency.

Many manufacturers use selective pallet racking layouts where the upper levels hold bulk stock, while the lower levels are used for individual picking. As stock is picked, new pallets are brought down from above to replenish those pick areas. Mezzanines both structural and raised storage areas are also used to increase storage capacity or create space for light assembly and parts storage above the main floor.

A typical manufacturing layout includes palletised storage for raw materials, assembly and production areas, and outgoing goods zones for finished product dispatch. The aim is to keep the manufacturing and storage functions close together to minimise time in motion, though the building’s shape and layout often limit how closely these areas can be positioned.

Because the range of materials handled in manufacturing is so wide, QLD Storage Systems supplies a variety of racking and shelving types to suit different needs, including:

• Cantilever racking for packs of long materials like timber, pipe, or steel.
• A-frame racking with dividers for individual extrusions or profiles.
• Cable racking for storing and dispensing coils of wire, cable, or hose.
• Drum racking cradles and IBC storage for liquid products
• Selective and double-deep pallet racking for general palletised goods.
• Mezzanine floors and raised storage areas for additional part storage or packing space.
• Workbenches and packing benches, often mobile, for assembly or dispatch preparation.

Each system is designed to improve workflow and make use of available floor and vertical space while maintaining accessibility and safety.

One of the most common challenges for manufacturers is managing the interface between storage and production. Balancing the flow of raw materials into production and finished goods out of it can be difficult, particularly when the warehouse and factory floor share limited space. The layout must allow for easy movement between areas while maintaining safety standards and clear separation between manufacturing and storage zones.

To improve flow, we generally position slower-moving or bulkier items toward the back of the warehouse and faster-moving parts and pick zones toward the front. This layout supports better time-in-motion efficiency and keeps the picking and packing areas accessible.

Many manufacturing clients also utilise galvanised cantilever or pallet racking outdoors for weather-resistant storage of raw materials such as steel, timber, or other bulky items that don’t require covered environments. Galvanised finishes ensure long-term durability against the elements, especially for external or semi-open storage zones.

By optimising product placement, integrating mezzanine floors, and ensuring the right mix of racking systems, QLD Storage Systems helps manufacturers streamline their operations, increase storage capacity, and improve safety across both production and warehousing environments.

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Whether you’re fitting out a new space or upgrading an existing one, maximise your warehouse space and streamline your operations with a customised racking layout, designed by the experts.