What is a flat storage?

A flat storage system is a storage location in an enclosed space that is up to eight meters high. In this storage system, the goods are placed in horizontal levels on special shelves or pallets. This is where they differ from conventional rack storage systems, which store the goods in vertical rows of racks.
Flat storage systems are characterized by the fact that they have no floors and storage therefore takes place on a single level. This is made possible by the use of special pallets or shelves close to the floor, which are placed directly on top of them.
Flat storage is generally regarded as the basic form of storage and is widely used in the logistics and storage industry.

Which goods are suitable for flat storage?

In principle, almost all conceivable types of goods can be stored in flat storage systems. However, they are particularly suitable for storing bulky or special goods that are difficult to store at height.

Advantages of flat bearings

We have listed the advantages of flat storage below:

• Space saving: Storage at ground level ensures that large parts of the storage space are utilized. This allows companies to maximize their storage capacity, especially in areas where space is limited.
• Easy access: As all goods are on one level, they are ready to hand more quickly. As a result, picking and packing processes become more efficient.
• Lower costs: Thanks to the vertical space requirement, lower shelves can be used, reducing construction and maintenance costs compared to traditional warehouse structures.
• Flexibility: Flat storage facilities can be relatively easily reconfigured or expanded to adapt to a company's changing requirements.

Disadvantages of flat bearings

Where there are advantages, there are usually also disadvantages, and this also applies to flat storage systems.

• Limited storage capacity: The ground level of a flat storage system is both a blessing and a curse. Space savings and easy access have already been mentioned as advantages, but the downside is the low storage capacity compared to rack storage. A fact that can lead to problems, especially with large volumes of goods.
• Floor preparation: For a flat storage system to be used effectively, a level and stable floor surface is required. Preparing the floor can take additional time and money.