Three Business Storage Mistakes To Avoid
Posted on: 5 August 2017
A small commercial space for your business doesn't necessarily mean it's time to move, you just may need to move some of your overflow, like stored paperwork and extra inventory, to a storage facility. Here are three mistakes to avoid when storing items for your business, which will help this transition into a storage facility go smoothly.
#1: Not considering document safety
Storing documents offsite is a simple way to free up space, since often these documents are being saved for tax or legal purposes, and you rarely need to access them again. Unfortunately, it is all too common for them to be damaged during storage, which can hurt you in the rare event you do need one of the documents. To ensure the safety of the documents, store them in moisture-proof containers instead of cardboard file boxes. This will also protect them from pests, such as insects and rodents, that could get into a storage unit. You should also include a desiccant package in each box to absorb any trapped moisture. Next, choose a storage facility that offers climate control. This further cuts down on any moisture as well as prevents extreme heat from damaging the documents. Since many items are now printed on heat-senstitive paper, this is important.
#2: Dismissing distribution issues
If you store extra inventory, you need to have a system in place or you will end up with a bottleneck in your distribution chain. This may mean looking for a commercial storage facility that provides warehouse services, such as storage rack systems and forklift access. For smaller products, you may only need to install your own simple shelving system and then implement an organization and inventory system to keep everything organized. Whichever storage method you choose, make sure everyone that is in charge of inventory pulling understands the system and follows it, or things will become a mess quickly.
#3: Overlooking security
Security should be a major concern, especially if you are storing documents with sensitive information or your expensive inventory. Opt for a facility that specializes in commercial companies, since they are more likely to have extra security protocols in place. Interior storage units within secured buildings are also preferred to those with independent garage access. There should also be plenty of visible security measures in place, such as live surveillance, on site security, and several layers of controlled access.
For more help or to get started, contact a commercial storage facility in your area like Sutters Fort Self Storage LLC.
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