Overhead Signs in Bulk Storage Warehouses
In warehouse management, efficiency and productivity are always the name of the game. When large, heavy, or oddly shaped items are in play, bulk storage, or “floor storage,” is usually the go-to strategy. In these environments, where every square foot matters, overhead warehouse signs ensure inventory can be stored optimally and retrieved efficiently.
What is Bulk Storage?
Bulk storage is the common practice of storing large or oversized goods directly on the warehouse floor. Appliances, industrial machinery, beverages, and raw materials that come in crates, pallets, or their original packaging are often too large or unwieldy to be housed on standard racking systems.
The warehouse floor becomes the storage system. In turn, these facilities require careful organization to optimize picking, packing, replenishing, and shipping.
Overhead signs – installed by professionals, reduce common errors, boost productivity, and keep things running smoothly.
The Role of Overhead Signs in Bulk Storage
Overhead signs in bulk storage environments, often barcoded with a retro reflective material, mark specific zones or areas, helping workers and automated systems identify product locations. These signs typically hang from the ceiling and are strategically placed above storage areas to provide clear, visible indicators, and can be seen from up to 50 feet away in most cases.
Here’s what overhead signs can do for you:
- Zone Identification: Overhead signs can divide the warehouse floor into zones. Each zone may represent a specific category of products or a designated storage area for different clients or departments.
- Bulk Location Markers: These mark the precise location of products. Overhead signs can indicate which section or aisle a product belongs to, making it easier for workers to navigate the space.
- Enhanced Visibility: Bulk storage warehouses are typically large and open, making floor-level signs difficult to see. Overhead signs are elevated, improving visibility and helping workers identify product locations from a distance quickly.
- Safety Signage: Overhead signs can also serve as safety markers, indicating pathways for forklifts, hazard zones, or emergency exits, which is a non-negotiable in large warehouses.
- Space Optimization: In environments where floor space is at a premium, overhead signs allow for better use of vertical space without obstructing the floor or storage areas.
- Durability: Most overhead signs are made from sturdy materials, such as aluminum or high-grade plastic, ensuring they can withstand the demanding conditions of warehouse environments. These signs are built to last, even in warehouses with temperature fluctuations or high humidity.
Some Limitations of Overhead Signs in Bulk Storage Environments
While overhead signs offer numerous benefits, there can also be limitations that warehouse managers might need to consider.
Installing overhead signs themselves requires both planning and physical labor, which can lead to higher initial costs compared to other types of signage. Specialized equipment, such as scissor lifts, may be needed to hang the signs in large facilities. Once an overhead sign is installed, moving it can be cumbersome and costly. This is especially true if the warehouse layout frequently changes due to shifting storage needs.
In warehouses with lower ceilings, overhead signs may obstruct visibility or interfere with forklifts and other machinery. Or, due to restrictions, using the ceiling is not an option. In such cases, floor signage or other alternatives may be more appropriate.
In bulk storage environments where overhead signs are not practical or allowed, the alternative to hanging a bulk storage sign is to apply a label at the physical location directly onto the warehouse floor. It is best to consult with a label expert to help recommend the optimal solution for your warehouse.
At ID Images, we understand the importance of clear, durable, and effective signage in warehouse operations, and offer both signs and professional installation. Our overhead signs are designed to withstand the toughest conditions, ensuring that your warehouse remains organized and efficient. Contact us today to learn more about how our signage solutions can improve your bulk storage system.