COVID-19 greatly disrupted the supply chain process, affecting the commercial distribution center, the company, and the consumer. Clearspan tents can change the way industries utilize distribution centers, allowing for more flexibility, efficiency, and ultimately, more revenue.
The commercial distribution center process is at the core of our country’s supply chain. At any given time there are people all around the country – and even around the world – who are expecting to receive a shipment of goods.
With recent COVID-19 closures and reductions in production, we have experienced supply chain woes like never before. As the world is opening back and up and production is kicking into high gear, the distribution centers are going to need to be ready to handle the increased volume at an effective and efficient pace.
A clearspan tent will make all the difference. They are changing the commercial distribution center process.
Create the Right Layout
Floor plans are so important when it comes to a commercial distribution center. Employees need to physically be able to move through the center without any hurdles or obstacles getting in their way. There should be no equipment or tools or machinery left in the middle of designated walkways.
Productivity is important so the flow of the space needs to make sense. Creating the right layout, though, means having the space to do it. As the distribution center employees work their way through their day, the layout should make sense. Sometimes taking a look at things from their perspective can help you organize your layout to increase efficiency.
Clearspan tents can easily be customized to any needed size – and can grow with the company. Underneath their fabric roof, they have a wide-open space free from any poles or support beams. This gives you the optimal space to create the best layout.
Organize Your Product to Increase Efficiency
Organizing your product is another way to keep your product moving through the chain efficiently. You can’t send what you can’t find. And if your employees are spending extra time searching for things then your productivity rates are going to tank.
- Keep your fastest moving products closer to the pickers. This cuts time to search for frequently bought items.
- Keep popular items easy to reach and close to the ground so that additional machines or equipment are not required.
- The least popular items should be moved to the back and out of the way.
Many distribution center managers understand the importance of maintaining organization but get overwhelmed due to lack of space. It is easy to keep things neatly placed when you have the space to do it — but not so much when you don’t.
Clearspan tents are changing the commercial distribution center process because there is no limit on space. If you need more space to properly organize your product, then you can have it. Unlike permanent brick and mortar buildings with a set amount of space, temporary warehouse tents can be adjusted to add more space.
A Geographic Focus to Reduce Costs – and Shipping Times
Does it make sense to have a commercial distribution center in Portland, Oregon when the majority of your purchases are made from the east coast of the U.S.? Surely there are reasons why you are located where you are, but what if you could get your products closer to their destination? What if you could cut down transportation costs or shipping costs, as well as reduce the transit time? Wouldn’t this greatly benefit your company?
Taking a geographic focus on your distribution process can reduce costs and shipping times.
Looking at the financial records of most distribution companies will prove that a huge chunk of costs come from the shipping. And the closer you are to a destination, the lower your shipping costs. So, why not create a facility that is closer to the majority of the buyers?
With clearspan structures, setting up a new location is a piece of cake. They don’t require time spent trying to find a warehouse that may work or having to wait for a new space to be built. Instead, you know what you are getting, how they work, and how to set up and organize your center in a new, even temporary location if needed.
It is an easy and smart business move that can increase your efficiency and your bottom dollar.
Regularly Assess Your Needs
Again, as we have seen, needs change in distribution and throughout the supply chain. Regularly assessing the needs of your commercial distribution center will help it to remain both productive and efficient. With a clearspan structure that is designed to be versatile and customized for you, you have all the tools you need to allow your business to change with the changing needs of the industry. And, this will keep you on top.
The Value in Clearspan Tents
While we have been talking about the ways clearspan tents can benefit your commercial distribution center process, we still have not touched on all the value they can provide. For instance, they provide benefits such as:
- Cost-effective with low cost per square foot.
- No support posts, leaving you with the maximum use of space.
- Ability to construct on nearly any ground or foundational surface.
- Many different cladding options, with some that allow light through – giving you an energy-saving option.
- Create your building of any size and still maintain durability and stability.
- Custom and turnkey designs to choose from.
- Durable frames that can hold up against harsh and corrosive environments.
- Create your openings and doors where you need them for maximum efficiency. These doors can accommodate people, machinery, trucks, and the like.
- High level of natural ventilation throughout the space with climate control availability.
Don’t let the word tent fool you. Clearspan tents are built to code, fully customizable, and are designed to withstand inclement weather. They are a fantastic option for permanent or temporary distribution space.
Remember, your commercial distribution center process can flow as well as space allows. Creating the best layout, organizing the product, and getting it closest to the consumer can transform your level of efficiency.
As we have witnessed over the last year or two, the flow of business is always changing – and you need a solution that is going to grow with you as you grow. It’s clear – clearspan buildings are that solution.
