As a small business owner, you understand the importance of keeping your inventory organised and easily accessible. But with limited space in your office or storefront, storing business inventory can quickly become an overwhelming challenge. That’s where business storage comes in.
By renting a storage unit, you can free up valuable space in your workplace and keep your inventory secure and well-organised. In this blog, we’ll explore some tips and strategies for small business owners who need stock storage solutions.
Benefits of Storing Business Inventory Off-Site: Why You Should Consider Business Storage
For many businesses, managing inventory can be a challenging and time-consuming task. From storing products to keeping track of stock levels, there are many factors to consider when it comes to effective inventory management. One solution that businesses may consider is storing inventory off-site, which involves leasing space at a storage facility specifically designed for commercial use.
5 Benefits of Storing Business Inventory Off-Site:
1. Increased Space
Storing inventory off-site frees up valuable space in the business location, which can be utilised for other important purposes such as expanding office space, creating additional workstations or setting up a new department.
2. Improved Efficiency
With additional space, businesses can store inventory in a more organised manner, allowing for easier tracking and retrieval of items. This, in turn, can lead to improved operational efficiency, as employees can locate products quickly and accurately, reducing time spent searching for items.
3. Enhanced Security
Business storage facilities often provide advanced security measures such as surveillance cameras, security guards and restricted access, which can significantly reduce the risk of theft and damage to inventory.
4. Cost-Effective
Leasing off-site storage space is often more cost-effective than renting additional space at the business location or building new storage facilities. Additionally, businesses can save money by avoiding the costs associated with moving to a larger facility, such as lease termination fees and moving expenses.
5. Scalability
As businesses grow, their inventory needs may also increase. Off-site storage provides the flexibility to scale up or down as needed without the constraints of physical space limitations.
While storing business inventory off-site can provide numerous benefits, it’s important to ensure that your inventory is safe and organised at all times. With a proper system in place, businesses can ensure that their inventory is well-maintained, making it easier to track stock levels and retrieve items when needed. In the following section, we will discuss some essential tips for storing business inventory in a way that keeps it safe and organised
Storing Business Inventory: Tips for Keeping Your Stock Safe and Organised
Effective inventory management is critical for any business that stores products. When inventory is disorganised, misplaced, or mislabeled, it can lead to delays, errors, and even lost sales. This is why it’s essential for businesses to take proactive steps to keep their inventory safe and organised, especially when storing it off-site.
Proper Packaging and Labeling Techniques
One of the most important aspects of storing business inventory is proper packaging and labelling. This ensures that your products are protected during transport and easily identifiable when in storage. Consider using high-quality packaging materials, such as boxes and padding, to protect fragile items. Label each package with important information, such as the product name, stock keeping unit (SKU), and the number of items inside. Using a standardised labelling system makes it easier to track inventory levels and avoid errors in ordering.
Inventory Management Systems and Strategies
Another important factor in storing business inventory is implementing an effective inventory management system. This includes developing strategies for tracking and managing inventory levels, such as using inventory management software, setting minimum and maximum stock levels, and performing regular audits to check for discrepancies.
Additionally, consider categorising your inventory by product type, location, or other relevant factors. This can make it easier to locate specific items when needed and avoid confusion during storage.
Need advice on how to store your business records in order to keep them safe? Please read the following blog: Best Advice For Storing Business Records
4 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Business Storage Unit
When it comes to storing business inventory off-site, choosing the right storage unit is crucial. Not all storage facilities are created equal, and selecting the wrong one can lead to a host of problems, such as inadequate security, insufficient space, and poor climate control. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a storage facility for your business:
1. Location
The location of the storage facility is an important consideration. Choosing a facility that is close to your business location can make it easier to transport inventory to and from the storage unit. This can help reduce transportation costs and ensure that inventory is readily accessible when needed. However, it’s also important to consider factors such as local climate and potential hazards, such as flooding or earthquakes, that could impact the safety and security of your inventory.
2. Security is Essential When Storing Business Inventory
Security is another crucial factor to consider when selecting a storage facility. Make sure the facility has proper security measures in place, such as surveillance cameras, security gates, and alarms. Additionally, consider whether the facility has on-site staff or if it’s accessible 24/7, as this can impact the level of security offered.
3. Size and Climate Control
When selecting a storage unit, size is an important factor to consider. Make sure that you get a size which large enough to accommodate your items without overcrowding but not too large so that you’re paying for space you don’t need. Also, take into account whether the facility offers climate-controlled units; this helps if your inventory may be sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity.
4. Cost
Finally, consider the cost of the storage unit. Look for a facility that offers a fair price for the size and features you need, and be sure to factor in additional costs such as insurance and transportation. However, don’t let cost be the sole deciding factor; it’s important to choose a storage facility that meets your business’s needs and provides the necessary level of security and convenience.
Not sure which size storage unit your business needs? Take a look at our handy Price and Size Guide to help you decide which storage unit meets your requirements and budget. By considering these factors when selecting a storage facility, businesses can ensure that their inventory is stored safely and conveniently off-site. This can help improve operational efficiency, reduce risk, and provide peace of mind for business owners.
Maximising Your Stock Storage Space: Storing Business Inventory Effectively
Storing business inventory off-site can be a great way to free up space in your main business location, but it’s important to make the most of the storage space you have available. Here are some tips for maximising your stock storage space and storing business inventory effectively:
Use Shelving and Racks
Using shelving and racks can help maximise storage space by allowing you to store items vertically. This can also make it easier to find and access items when needed. Consider using adjustable shelving units or modular racks that can be customised to fit your inventory.
Stack and Organise Boxes
If you’re using boxes to store your inventory, consider stacking them strategically to maximise space. Place heavier boxes on the bottom and lighter boxes on top, and make sure they are stacked securely to avoid the risk of collapse. Additionally, consider organising boxes by category or product type to make it easier to find specific items.
Utilise Storage Containers for Storing Business Inventory
Using storage containers, such as plastic bins, can help protect items from dust, moisture, and other hazards. Additionally, they can be stacked and easily labelled for quick identification. Consider using clear storage containers, which you can purchase from shops like Plastic Box Shop, to make it easier to see what’s inside without having to open them.
Optimise Storage Unit Layout
Consider the layout of your storage unit to maximise the available space. Place larger items against the walls or in the corners, and leave a clear path for accessing items in the centre of the unit. Additionally, consider using the vertical space in your storage unit by stacking items high, as long as it is safe to do so.
By implementing these tips, businesses can maximise their storage space and store inventory in a safe, organised, and efficient manner. This can help improve operational efficiency and reduce the risk of lost or damaged items, ultimately leading to a more successful business.
Why Choose Space Centre for Business Storage
Before signing a contract with any UK storage facility, make sure to read the fine print and ensure you understand all terms and conditions. This can help avoid hidden charges that may appear in policies and procedures, which vary from one venue to the next.
At Space Centre Self Storage, transparency is key for our customers, which means no hidden costs or surprises. Our prices stay consistent for 12 months at a time, and we offer flexible contracts, so you’re not locked in forever. Need a larger unit or want to extend your rental contract? That’s no problem either; simply let us know.
If you need advice or more information on short-term or long-term options for storing business inventory, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We have facilities located through Bristol, Stroud, Gloucester, and Stonehouse.