7 Stockroom Organisation Ideas for Your Retail or Hospitality Back Room

Posted On: May 22, 2024 By: SEOAdmin

Inventory management is challenging but it is also essential to the way your business runs. Knowing how much stock you have, how much you use and where everything is are among the very basics of running an effective business in retail, hospitality and beyond. Efficiently organising your stockroom can save you time, reduce stress and enhance your productivity.

This article dives into the best practices for organisation stockrooms to help you run a tight ship and boost your business.

Stockroom Organisation Ideas

Maximising Vertical Space

One of the key strategies for organising your stockroom is to make the most of the height of the room. So often, we fill the floor and ignore the potential above.

Installing tall shelving units is the most obvious option for creating stock space. Search out sturdy, industrial-strength shelving to store heavy items safely and in a stable manner. Stick those items you access the least often high up or low down and put frequently used products within easy reach to save important time in your operations. It all builds up!

Another idea is installing wall-mounted racks that can help free up floor space and keep items visible and accessible. Don’t forget to keep a safe step ladder on hand to help you reach up high and provide training to employees on how to use it and to lift stock properly.

Organisation System

Systems are your pathway to better productivity in your stockroom. Arrange the items in categories and subcategories to make them easier to find in a hurry.

This means grouping similar items together, such as placing all cleaning supplies in one area and all office supplies in another. Using a First In, First Out (FIFO) system ensures you use the older stock first, reducing waste and managing item expiration dates effectively.

Create designated zones for different product types, like separating seasonal items from year-round stock. This type of organisation is all about efficiency.

Signage and Labelling

An organised stockroom thrives on clear signage and labelling. Add clear stickers and signs on shelves, bins and containers with detailed descriptions or using a colour-coded system to help people find what they need in no time.

Another trick is to include barcodes that integrate with your inventory management software, so that you can update your inventory management systems as you go. Just think of the time you will save later on!

Storage Solutions

The types of storage solutions you need will depend on your business, your preferences and the stock you store. It could include a variety of storage options such as bins, racks, drawers and cabinets. Whatever you need, using the right solution for the right product keeps it safe, secure and visible in your stockroom.

These different storage types help to accommodate various sizes and types of inventory. Heavy items should always be stored at lower levels to prevent accidents, while lighter items can be stored higher up. Consider mobile storage units for additional flexibility, allowing you to reconfigure your stockroom layout as you need to.

Inventory Management Software

Still stocktaking with a clipboard and pen? Takes a long time, right? Using inventory management software is a game-changer for maintaining stockroom efficiency. It tracks stock levels, manages orders and can forecast inventory needs for you.

This technology minimises human error and ensures that you always have the right amount of stock on hand. Real-time data provided by these systems allows for better decision-making and streamlined operations. Features like barcode scanning and automated reordering are additional bonuses for efficiency.

Lighting

Lighting is not something we always consider when thinking about stockrooms, but it is a key element. Proper lighting is critical for visibility and safety in your stockroom. Bright, evenly distributed lighting helps staff find items quickly and reduces the risk of accidents.

Use energy-efficient LED lights to save on costs while ensuring the right level illumination. Good lighting not only improves productivity but also enhances the overall working environment for your staff.

Climate Control

Keeping the temperature right in your stockroom is essential for preserving the quality of your inventory. Ensure your stockroom is well-ventilated, and use air conditioning or heating systems as necessary to maintain a consistent temperature.

For items sensitive to humidity, such as electronics or certain food products, consider using dehumidifiers. Proper climate control can prevent damage to your stock and maintain its integrity over time.

Get the Right Stockroom Items

These tips can transform your stockroom into a well-organised, efficient and safe environment that supports the smooth operation of your retail or hospitality business. Getting organised behind the scenes reduces stress and sets the stage for a business that is productive and harmonious. Get the items you need to organise your stockroom right now from The Retail Factory. Call us on 0800 0223237 for help picking out the perfect fittings.