A company from the metalworking industry is experiencing continuous growth. The stocks of profiles, sheets, and pipes are steadily increasing – but the available storage space eventually reaches its limits. Traditional static racks offer stability and clear organization, but they require a lot of space. When space is lacking, processes start to slow down.
Access times increase, improvised processes raise the risk of accidents, and the expenses for additional storage space rise drastically. This raises the key question: Is static storage still practical, or does dynamic storage offer a better solution?
Static Storage – the Solid Foundation
Static storage is also known as a fixed-location system, as each product is assigned a permanent spot on the rack. This static structure ensures clear organization and is particularly suitable when the product range remains stable over the long term.
Advantages at a Glance
Static storage stands out primarily for its stability. Every item has a fixed place, which eliminates search times and makes access particularly easy. Thanks to hot-rolled steel profiles, the racking systems offer high load-bearing capacity and can withstand heavy loads. Another benefit is their durability: With minimal maintenance, they provide reliable service for decades. The fixed structure creates clear organization, making everyday warehouse workflows noticeably easier.
Typical Solutions
Classic solutions for static storage primarily include cantilever racks and pallet racks. Cantilever racks are particularly suitable for long goods such as profiles, pipes, or sheets, as they allow open and clearly arranged storage. Pallet racks, on the other hand, are the most common solution for all types of palletized goods. They offer high load capacity, are flexibly expandable, and create clear order in the warehouse.
Limitations in Practice
As solid and reliable as static storage may be, it quickly reaches its limits in practical use. As the product range grows, the demand for additional rack space increases, which requires not only space but also investment. Moreover, static systems are relatively space-intensive. They require significantly more room than dynamic solutions since each item occupies a fixed storage location – regardless of how often it is moved. Flexibility is also limited. Changes in inventory or seasonal fluctuations are difficult to accommodate, as the fixed structures hardly allow for spontaneous adjustments.
Dynamic Storage – the Flexible Alternative
In contrast to the rigid fixed-location system, dynamic or “chaotic” storage allows flexible reactions to changes in the product range and material flow. It shows its strengths especially when storage space is limited or stock levels change frequently.
Practical Advantages
A key advantage of dynamic systems lies in space efficiency. On the same base area, significantly more storage capacity can be created because storage locations are used flexibly. In addition, optimized processes enable shorter access times, which speeds up daily warehouse operations. Since these systems are scalable, they can easily be adapted to growing inventories and thus offer long-term future security. More details on optimizing processes can be found in the article on efficient warehouse processes.
Typical Solutions
Classic examples of dynamic storage systems include mobile shelving systems. They are particularly suitable for heavy and bulky goods because racks can be moved, requiring only a few aisles. Even more efficiency is offered by automated storage systems, which work in combination with a warehouse management system and handle storage, retrieval, and order picking.
Challenges to Consider
However, dynamic storage is not without challenges. The initial costs are significantly higher than those of traditional static racks. There is also technical dependency: if a system fails, entire processes can come to a standstill. Operation also requires trained personnel, as maintenance and control are more complex. Companies must carefully weigh these factors before switching to dynamic systems.
Decision Criteria for Static or Dynamic Storage
The choice between static and dynamic storage affects the entire warehouse organization and determines how efficiently processes can be designed. It largely depends on four criteria:
Space Availability
The first is space availability. Those with large storage areas can work cost-effectively and efficiently with static systems. Companies with limited space or high space costs, on the other hand, need the space efficiency of dynamic systems. A more detailed look at location strategies is provided in the article on centralized and decentralized storage.
Investment Budget
Second, the investment budget is crucial. Static racking systems are cheaper to purchase and almost maintenance-free, making them the ideal solution for small and medium-sized businesses. Dynamic systems require higher initial investments but offer long-term benefits in terms of space savings and more efficient workflows.
Product Structure and Turnover Frequency
Third, product structure and turnover frequency must be considered. A consistent product range with low turnover is ideal for static systems. Dynamic solutions, on the other hand, show their strengths when a large number of different items need to be accessed quickly and flexibly.
Growth Plans
Fourth, companies should consider their future growth plans. Those aiming for expansion or expecting a growing product range are better positioned for the future with dynamic systems. They can be scaled more easily and combined with existing facilities.
Hybrid Storage Systems – The Best of Both Worlds
Neither static nor dynamic storage systems can fully meet the requirements of modern businesses in all situations. The metalworking industry provides a typical example: cantilever racks are ideal for long goods but reach their limits when the range expands, and space is limited. A purely dynamic solution, on the other hand, would be impractical for heavy and bulky goods. This shows that only the combination of both systems enables an economical and sustainable workflow.
Advantages of the Combination
The strength of hybrid concepts lies in balancing the weaknesses of both approaches. Static racks guarantee load-bearing capacity, organization, and easy handling, while dynamic modules provide better space utilization and quick access. This creates a flexible storage environment suitable for both constant product groups and changing inventories. Companies gain planning security as well as the necessary adaptability.
Practical Example
Returning to our initial example: In the metalworking industry, hybrid concepts can be illustrated clearly. Profiles and sheets are stored in robust cantilever racks, where stability is crucial. At the same time, mobile shelving systems or automated small parts storage enable efficient storage of screws, fasteners, and smaller components. This allows the available space to be used optimally even with varying inventories. This combination increases space productivity and ensures delivery capability even during growth phases.
Conclusion: Finding the Right Solution
Whether static, dynamic, or hybrid – efficient warehouse management is crucial for keeping inventory transparent and reducing costs in the long term. The most important step is therefore to realistically assess your own requirements: How much space is available, which products are stored, what is the turnover frequency, and where is the company headed in the coming years?
Based on these criteria, clear decisions can be made. Static systems stand for stability and reliability, while dynamic systems stand for flexibility and space efficiency. In practice, however, the best solution often results from a combination of both approaches.
OHRA supports companies in this decision-making process – with decades of experience, innovative products, and individual consulting. This creates a storage strategy that not only works for today but also considers future growth. The strategic role of storage within a company is highlighted in the article on storage and its functions.
