The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Shelving for Your Industry
Shelving may seem like a basic part of your operation, but choosing the right kind can drastically impact your efficiency, safety, and space utilization. Different industries have different needs, and using the wrong shelving can lead to disorganization, product damage, and wasted space.
At Source Equipment, we help businesses select shelving systems that are tailored to their environment, inventory, and workflow.
Here’s a breakdown of the most common shelving types and how to know which is right for you:
Retail
- Recommended: Adjustable wire shelving or gondola shelving
- Why: Flexibility is key. Product lines change frequently, and shelving must adapt quickly to new sizes, shapes, and displays. Wire shelving also allows for airflow and visibility, ideal for stocking merchandise.
Warehouse & Logistics
- Recommended: Pallet racking and industrial steel shelving
- Why: These systems are designed for high-volume storage and durability. Pallet racking maximizes vertical space, while steel shelving supports heavy items and withstands frequent handling.
Automotive
- Recommended: Boltless shelving and parts bins
- Why: Automotive parts vary in size and weight. Boltless shelving allows for easy reconfiguration and supports large, heavy items like tires and tools. Adding bins helps organize small parts.
Healthcare
- Recommended: Sanitary-grade plastic or stainless steel shelving
- Why: Cleanliness and compliance are critical. These materials resist rust, are easy to sanitize, and often meet healthcare facility requirements.
Manufacturing
- Recommended: Heavy-duty steel shelving and mobile shelving units
- Why: Manufacturers need rugged systems that can handle bulky raw materials or finished goods. Mobile shelving adds flexibility in work areas and production lines.
E-commerce & Fulfillment Centers
- Recommended: Multi-level shelving and pick racks
- Why: Quick access and fast turnover are crucial. Multi-level configurations and clearly labeled bins reduce pick times and boost fulfillment speed.
Key Considerations Before Choosing:
- Weight capacity: Always factor in the maximum weight your shelves will hold.
- Accessibility: Consider how often and how quickly items need to be accessed.
- Scalability: Your shelving should grow with your business.
- Compliance: For food, medical, or high-regulation industries, make sure materials and construction meet safety requirements.
Need help choosing the right shelving system? Our team at Source Equipment is ready to guide you through the process, ensuring your storage setup supports your goals—not hinders them.
Visit www.sourceequipment.com to browse our shelving options or schedule a free consultation today.
