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. The foods considered dry goods are items stored at room temperature. Specific agriculture and chemical products are not considered dry goods because they have to be kept at certain 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 they reserve for production to create a final product. Since manufacturers are constantly getting orders, storing these materials away can help them keep backup stock. Manufacturers may also forecast better delivery dates for incoming orders based on their inventory.
Temperature Controlled Goods
These goods must be stored at a specific temperature to prevent damage or spoiling. An example is perishable foods like dairy products that need 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 a warehouse in large quantities. Different types of cargo can be considered bulk, ranging from industrial supplies to liquid products like petroleum. Typically, bulk storage items are palletized and put in large spaces in warehouses; however, there are several types of bulk storage. For example, warehouses store liquid items in storage tanks or vats and 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 are items that can be flammable, explosive, toxic, radioactive, or dangerous, like gases, batteries, and pesticides. Due to the goods being hazardous, facilities take better precautions during warehouse storage. Designated ventilated areas that can be dry and cool are used solely for these materials. Safety barriers, warning signs, and the correct labels are also required to store these goods.
The goods listed above are frequent items stored in warehouses; however, this list extends further. 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.