Task: It would be useful to know the theoretical capacity of the warehouse that is needed, based on the items and optimum stocking level of each item. Whether the warehouse is a full-pallet-in/full-pallet-out operation, or a selective single-deep pallet rack operation can have an impact on the utilization level of the warehouse.
The type of items that will be stored will also determine the size of the warehouse needed. Some items may require special equipment for storage, such as refrigerators. This will increase the amount of space needed.
Information regarding the cost of warehouse space versus the cost of labor is also important. If warehouse space is expensive, but labor is cheap, it may be more feasible to slowly convert inventory from a multiple-pallet deep lane to a selective pallet rack as the items in inventory are sold. Although this method requires more labor, it will allow a smaller warehouse space to be used more efficiently.
Calculating Warehouse space:
The size of warehouse required for an operation is determined by the maximum quantity, in tonnage and volume, of supplies to be stored there at any one time. This quantity is determined by the number of beneficiaries, the lead-time needed to replenish the warehouse, the type of distribution system and the frequency of the distributions (e.g., monthly, weekly, etc.).
- Grain (rice, maize), flour, bagged sugar 2m3
- Medicines (average for bulk shipments and medical kits) 3m3
- Vegetable oil in drums or tins 1.5-2m3
- Blankets in pressed bales (approximately 700) 4-5m3
- Blankets in un-pressed bales 8-10m3
- Clothes (in bails) 7-10m3
- Tents (approximately 25 family tents) 4-5m3
- Kitchen utensils in 35-40kg boxes 4.5m3
When calculating storage requirements, only 70 per cent of the total warehouse’s surface capacity should be considered as available for actual storage space. The remaining 30 per cent is used to ensure proper ventilation, passageways, handling space and repackaging areas. Moreover, it should be noted that it is either impossible or impractical to fill a warehouse to the roof, nor is it recommended. Therefore, storage capacity should be calculated at least a metre below the actual height of the warehouse ceiling. Additionally, to avoid damage to the goods or the risk of stacks toppling over, few items can or should be stacked higher than 2.5m.
Calculating Warehouse space:
When calculating warehouse capacity, it should also be noted that no more weight than that which is specified in the warehouse leasing contract can be stacked per square metre of floor space. Refer to the section on stacking for more information on floor-load limitations.