Every so often, a project comes along that’s not only rewarding, but also a lot of fun to be part of. A few years back, a unique project with BrewDog Brewing in Canal Winchester, Ohio definitely fits that description! What started as a single, small Pallet Rack order turned into a large, multi-stage pallet racking installation that supported both their production needs and their customer-facing space.

Before the project even began, we initially coordinated with BrewDog’s team headquartered in Scotland, which added another unique layer of communication and planning. Their team was fantastic to work with and helped set the foundation for the early stages of the installation before everything shifted to the Canal Winchester location.

If you’ve ever been inside BrewDog’s facility, you know it’s a busy place… constantly moving product, constantly growing, and always looking for ways to operate more efficiently. That meant they needed storage solutions that could keep up with their pace, but also give them the flexibility to expand as their needs changed. Instead of ordering everything at once, BrewDog purchased their pallet rack in stages, adding on as new areas were built out and as the brewery continued to scale.

A Project That Grew Alongside the Brewery

The first phase focused on back-of-house storage. We installed heavy-duty pallet racking to help them organize incoming ingredients, packaged beer and brewery equipment. With the amount of product they move in and out each week, improving the flow of materials was a high priority. The new racking immediately made a difference by giving them more vertical storage and reducing clutter on the warehouse floor.

As the project continued, BrewDog expanded their front-of-house retail space. They wanted racking solutions that looked clean and professional but were sturdy enough to hold cases, merch, and seasonal items. We matched the design to their existing layout so everything looked intentional, not just functional.

Each new stage added another layer to the overall footprint, and before long, the job evolved into a very large installation. By the final phase, the system we had built together supported a wide range of operational needs, from production to retail.

Teamwork, Flexibility and a Great Partner

One of the most enjoyable parts of this project was the collaboration. BrewDog knew what they needed, and we helped them figure out the safest and most efficient way to achieve it. Timing was important, and since they were purchasing racking as needed, we made sure each phase was scheduled and installed in a way that didn’t slow down their daily operations.

It’s always rewarding to step back at the end of a project like this and see how much the space has transformed, especially knowing the system will support BrewDog’s growth for years to come.

A Look Ahead…

Whether it’s a small add-on or a large multi-stage installation like this one, we take pride in helping businesses build storage systems that actually work for the way they operate. BrewDog was a great partner throughout the process, and we’re proud to have played a small role in their continued success in Canal Winchester.

If your business is expanding or you’re considering updating your storage layout, allow the team of experts at Midwest Material Handling, LLC to help you explore the options!

From a buyer’s perspective this has always been a difficult and often times confusing decision. Let’s first briefly discuss the advantages of purchasing USED Pallet Racking.

Advantages

Obviously, the overriding thought when considering purchasing USED Pallet Racks is cost. A secondary, but equally important benefit is the USED equipment is on-site and available immediately, saving time and freight costs.

Now for the reality… Many buyers wrongly think that purchasing USED Pallet Racking and Wire Decking is similar to that of purchasing a used car (for example), that there is a 50% or 60% savings over the cost of NEW. Unfortunately, this is rarely the case.

Let’s discuss why…

When we are contacted by a seller who has USED equipment available, the vast majority of the time, the racking is still standing and needs to be disassembled. Once we send a crew into disassemble the Rack, we then need to stack, band and prep it for shipment. Once complete, the USED Pallet Rack needs to be shipped, via flatbed to our location. Due to its size and length, USED Rack/Wire Decks are generally stored outside, allowing the powder coated finish to begin rusting and oxidizing. One item of note, many buyers have little regard for the discoloration or aesthetic appearance of the USED Racking, they simply want it to work! Add all of that up and the NEW vs. USED savings is somewhere in the vicinity of 15%-20%.

Damage

One other very important consideration… historically, we have rarely sold USED Pallet Rack Uprights as they generally have some sort of column damage (probably 4 out of 5 Uprights sustain damage from forklift forks or skids) usually located at the lower 12”-24” of the two front Upright columns. * NOTE: If there is ever a ding or dent in an Upright… BUYER BEWARE! The structural integrity of the Upright has been compromised and the Upright should be discarded. There are disreputable companies and social media sellers out there that will sell them, but we won’t (and you should not buy them)!

Condition

While we stock and sell a significant amount of USED equipment (primarily Pallet Rack and Wire Mesh Decks), the quality and condition of the USED equipment we sell is exceptional. We only sell USED material that has an overall condition rating of 8-9 out of 10, we do not sell anything with any lower condition rating. All of our USED Racking has a condition rating applied to it at arrival and is always furnished and noted on our proposals. Of course, pictures are always available when the Racking cannot be viewed in person or we are shipping it out of area. You can always trust our condition ratings to be accurate and thorough.

Modern manufacturing techniques have improved to the point that, many times, purchasing NEW can actually be less expensive than buying USED. Even more so, the same holds true for USED Pallet Rack purchased at auctions or auction settings, but that’s a conversation for another day. Additionally, another great geographical advantage he have is the majority of our NEW Wire Mesh Deck Panels are manufactured (ITC Manufacturing) right here in Columbus, Ohio! Pick them up and save the freight!

For more information on New and Used Pallet Racking, check out… https://mmhonline.com/pallet-rack-teardrop-keystone-shelving-warehouse-new-used-racking-columbus-ohio/

Storage Racking and Specialized Pallet Racking Systems & Improved Warehouse Efficiency in 2024

Warehouse efficiency, including a range of specialized types of storage racking systems in 2024 is influenced by several emerging trends and technologies. Here are some key factors shaping warehouse operations and their Staffs:

1. Automation and Robotics: Advanced robots and automated systems are increasingly used for tasks like picking, packing, sorting, and inventory management. These technologies can significantly speed up processes and reduce errors.
2. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning: AI and machine learning are helping optimize warehouse operations by predicting demand, managing inventory more effectively, and improving route planning for both robots and human workers.
3. Internet of Things (IoT): IoT devices, such as sensors and smart shelves, provide real-time data on inventory levels, equipment status, and environmental conditions. This data helps in making informed decisions and maintaining operational efficiency.
4. Warehouse Management Systems (WMS): Modern WMS platforms offer advanced features like real-time tracking, advanced analytics, and integration with other systems, which enhance overall warehouse management and efficiency.
5. Drones: Drones are being used for inventory management and scanning large areas quickly. They can perform tasks like stocktaking and checking the condition of goods, which speeds up operations and reduces labor costs.
6. Sustainability Initiatives: There’s a growing focus on making warehouses more eco-friendly. This includes optimizing energy use, reducing waste, and incorporating sustainable materials and practices.
7. Flexible Space Utilization: With the rise of e-commerce, warehouses are adapting to handle various types of products and varying order volumes. This flexibility often involves reconfigurable racking systems and modular layouts.
8. Omnichannel Fulfillment: As customers expect faster delivery and seamless shopping experiences, warehouses are increasingly set up to handle both B2B and B2C orders efficiently, often with separate processes and spaces for each.
9. Augmented Reality (AR): AR is used to enhance picking accuracy and efficiency by providing visual instructions and real-time information to warehouse workers through wearable devices.
10. Advanced Data Analytics: Leveraging big data analytics helps in optimizing routes, predicting demand, and managing inventory levels more accurately, leading to better decision-making and efficiency.
11. High Density Storage: Including Drive-In Rack and Pushback Racking. These customized storage solutions are designed, built and installed to maximize storage in defined areas. No pallet racking system that exists can store more pallet positions in confined spaces than these two systems. For more detailed information on the various types of high density storage and racking systems, kindly check out… https://mmhonline.com/pallet-rack-storage-systems-columbus-ohio/

These advancements are helping warehouses handle increasing volumes of goods with greater speed and accuracy, ultimately leading to better service and cost savings.

Pallet Rack Guarding in Cleveland, Ohio

Cleveland, Ohio-We recently completed a pallet rack guarding project in Cleveland, Ohio for a manufacturing facility focused on improving warehouse safety. The safety manager reached out after identifying potential risks tied to pallets stored on upper rack levels. In a busy environment, loads shift, product gets bumped, and improperly positioned skids can create unnecessary hazards. The goal was simple. Protect employees and visitors working near the pallet racking system.

After reviewing the existing layout, we recommended a wire rack guarding solution from Husky Rack and Wire.

Why Pallet Rack Guarding Matters in Cleveland Warehouses

In many Cleveland facilities, pallet racks run alongside pedestrian walkways or active workstations. When that happens, added protection becomes important. Wire rack guards attach directly to the pallet rack upright columns and create a rigid barrier that helps prevent pallets or loose product from falling into aisle ways or work areas.

Unlike netting, wire panels provide consistent protection while still allowing light and visibility through the rack bays. Employees can clearly see stored inventory while gaining an added layer of safety.

For this facility, the rack guarding solution delivered:

• Added protection along active rack aisles
• Improved safety near exposed workstations
• Greater confidence during plant tours and visits
• A stronger alternative to worn or torn netting

Product Details and Quick Ship Availability

The wire rack guards are available in several standard sizes and fit common beam lengths of 96 inch, 108 inch, 120 inch and 144 inch bays. Heights of 3 foot, 4 foot and 5 foot allow the guarding to match different rack openings.

Standard size panels can ship within 24 hours for orders totaling 2,500 pounds or less, making this a practical option when safety concerns need to be addressed quickly.

Panels ship crated to prevent freight damage, with one crating charge covering up to 23 panels.

When to Consider Rack Guarding

Facilities often explore pallet rack guarding in Cleveland when:

• Pedestrian traffic runs alongside rack systems
• Workstations are positioned directly next to rack bays
• Pallets have previously been pushed through rack levels
• Stored product has caused wall damage
• Existing safety netting is no longer adequate
• The facility hosts regular visitors or plant tours

In these situations, adding wire rack guards is a straightforward way to reduce risk without changing the overall rack layout.

Supporting Safer Facilities in Cleveland, Ohio

Every warehouse operates differently, but safety concerns around pallet racking are common. In this Cleveland project, rack guarding provided a durable and effective upgrade that strengthened protection around existing storage systems.

Midwest Material Handling supports warehouses and manufacturing facilities throughout Cleveland and Northeast Ohio with a full range of material handling and warehouse storage solutions.

To learn more about pallet rack guarding in Cleveland, Ohio or to discuss your specific layout, contact our team today.