When shippers bring up warehousing in conversations, a frequent topic is the merchandise they put away. While there is an extensive amount of items kept in warehouses, we can break them down into categories. This article will discuss the common types of goods stored and how warehouses handle them.
Dry Goods
One of the most conventional types of goods stored in warehouses is dry goods. These can range from shoes, furniture, and electronics to packaged food goods. Dry goods are foods stored at room temperature. Specific agricultural and chemical products are not considered dry goods because they must be stored at specific temperatures. Warehouses also ensure they are in excellent condition before moving to the next destination.
Raw Materials
Other common goods stored in warehouses are raw materials such as grains, metal, crude oil, etc. Manufacturing facilities eventually use these materials that they reserve for production to create a final product. Since manufacturers are constantly receiving orders, storing these materials can help them maintain backup stock. Manufacturers may also forecast more accurate delivery dates for incoming orders based on their inventory levels.
Temperature Controlled Goods
These goods must be stored at a specific temperature to prevent damage or spoilage. An example is perishable foods, such as dairy products, that require refrigeration below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Pharmaceuticals are also temperature-controlled goods that facilities store at specific temperatures. The warehouses tend to have specialized equipment like evaporators, condensers, and airlock systems.
Bulk Items
Oversized or bulk items are goods stored in large quantities in a warehouse. Different types of cargo can be considered bulk, ranging from industrial supplies to liquid products like petroleum. Typically, bulk storage items are palletized and stored in large areas of warehouses; however, there are several types of bulk storage. For example, warehouses store liquids in storage tanks or vats, as well as in intermediate bulk containers (IBCs). Facilities may store bulk goods in other ways, such as floor stacking and pallet racking.
Hazardous Goods
Hazardous materials, or hazmat, are items that may pose a potential threat to people, animals, or the environment. Examples of hazmats include flammable, explosive, toxic, radioactive, or otherwise dangerous items, such as gases, batteries, and pesticides. Because the goods are hazardous, facilities take additional precautions during warehouse storage. Designated ventilated areas that can be dry and cool are used solely for these materials. Safety barriers, warning signs, and proper labels are also required for storing these goods.
The goods listed above are common items stored in warehouses; however, this list extends beyond them. If you what to find out more about warehouse storage services, contact A1 Worldwide Logistics at 832-501-9885. We have facilities that provide numerous solutions for your warehousing needs.
