Comparing Standard and Custom-Fabricated Mezzanines

There are many types of mezzanines available in the market to provide warehouse owners and users more flexibility in choosing which one would most effectively work for their material handling and warehouse operations. Among these types, do you already what to get for your material handling and warehouse storage needs?

The two primary classifications of mezzanines are standard-sized and custom mezzanines. While both are equally functional, they both have their strengths and weaknesses, and, therefore, require you to weigh your options as to know which one to get.

Standard-Sized Mezzanine Systems

Standard-sized or off-the-shelf mezzanine systems are pre-fabricated according to the normal sizes and typical spaces of warehouses in general. They are readily available from the manufacturer, such that when a company orders one or more systems from them, the manufacturer can deliver and install them right away.

All standard-sized mezzanine systems are constructed using the same high-grade, heavy-duty materials. However, if you have some minor requests regarding its construction, they may not be accommodated since standard mezzanines are already fixed, completed, and ready to be installed.

If your warehouse uses the standard storage space and you need a mezzanine system right away, the standard-sized system us ideal for you.

Custom-Fabricated Mezzanine System

Mezzanine systems can undergo custom fabrication if a customer or client prefers a system that is different from standard-sized models. For example, the size of the warehouse is unique that no standard-sized mezzanine can fit in, a custom-fabricated unit is most ideal to be used

Moreover, if client requires special specifications such as different materials to be used, different height or elevation, and additional safety features, a custom-fabricated mezzanine system should be preferred. Thus, if your warehouse storage needs are quite unique and you have a lot of time to spare while the manufacturer constructs your custom-made mezzanine, then this type is ideal for you.

These are the common differences between standard and custom mezzanines. The choice as to which type of system to get will all depend on your storage and material handling needs. For more information about custom mezzanines, visit http://msshouston.com/cantilever-racking-6/uncategorised/custom-mezzanines.

Maintenance Tips for Industrial Mezzanines

Industrial mezzanines are used in many industries for various applications such as storage and additional space. To maintain its function for regular usage and enable it to last for a very long time, proper precautions should be observed. Here are some maintenance tips for industrial mezzanines.

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1. Mezzanine floors should be inspected and monitored on a regular basis. Any visual defects such as dents, buckles, tears to any beam, stanchion, floor joist or even loose nuts and bolts will require specialist advice from the manufacturer, supplier, or independent structural engineer. If one of the above damages has been found, immediate attention should be made.
2. Damage to decking can be an evidence of excessive loading. Thus, it is important to not overload your mezzanine. Always keep in mind the maximum weight capacity of the storage system and do not exceed its weight limit. Any sign of decking cracking, breaking up, or other obvious distress will require specialist advice and repair.
3. Strictly follow maximum weight capacity of the system. Loading notices must be supplied by the mezzanine manufacturer or supplier and prominently displayed around the mezzanine.
4. The structural steel framework and decking of your industrial mezzanine should not be altered without reference to and advice from the supplier and/or manufacturer or a qualified structural engineer.
5. Positions of staircases and other forms of access and escapes must not be changed without prior reference to the supplier and/or manufacturer. Likewise, change of usage of a mezzanine may require alterations to the loading characteristic originally calculated, reference to the supplier, manufacturer or structural engineer should be sought. 

An industrial mezzanine can work effectively for you and your warehouse needs. However, if not used and maintained properly, it may even cause more harm and damage than help. For more information about fabrication, installation, and use of industrial mezzanines, consult with the experts at MSS Houston or visit its website at http://msshouston.com/cantilever-racking-10/uncategorised/industrial-mezzanine.

Maintenance Tips for Your Warehouse

Warehouse maintenance is the process of controlling the movement and storage of materials within a warehouse. It involves activities such as storage, shipping, receiving, putaway and picking. The maintenance of warehouse operation is an essential process to ensure maximum utilization of both facility and equipment assets of a company.

To maintain and continuously improve the operation of your warehouse, here are some effective tips to consider.

1. Warehouse maintenance involves keeping the warehouse facility and all its aspects in good condition and shape, such as grounds, utilities, plumbing, heating, air conditioning, fire protection, security systems, and more. Even before any operation starts, make sure that there is well-organized system involving these aspects.

2. Storage systems such as industrial mezzanines should be well installed and can accommodate the equipment or stored items well. To maximize warehouse space, opt for custom fabricated mezzanines and storage systems.

3. Implement efficient storeroom inventory tracking system. This will help you track inventories easily and more conveniently without the hassles of manually counting stocks every hour or so.

4. For safety and security, equipment should be handled with care at all times and only by authorized personnel. Post warning labels and signs at all sides and corners of the warehouse. First aid kits should also be available in cases of emergency.

5. Regularly check the condition of each equipment piece in the warehouse. If you notice some damage – whether major or minor – tell the officer-in-charge right away and discontinue the use of the equipment temporarily. Have it fixed as soon as possible to avoid further damage.

6. Invest in a warehouse maintenance software system that will provide you with a set of computerized procedures to handle the receipt of stock and returns into a warehouse facility model and manage the logical representation of the physical storage facilities. This will make your life in handling warehouse operations easier.

These are just some ways on how to maintain the operation and materials handling inside the warehouse. For more information about storage systems such as industrial mezzanines, visit http://msshouston.com/cantilever-racking-10/uncategorised/industrial-mezzanine.