In the world of industrial operations and municipal work, everyone wants one thing: a way to boost efficiency and improve the bottom line. To complete quality work, crews must operate with the utmost efficacy. However, when there is no structure in place to ease these operations, critical parts and equipment can get lost in the shuffle.

Fortunately, there is an answer: Cabinets and mobile storage solutions stop inventory from slipping through the cracks. From durable construction to tactical accessories, mobile storage solutions provide a base for optimal job-site performance.

Assessing the benefits
After adopting mobile storage solutions, you might notice improved efficiency. With the increased flexibility that mobile storage allows, repair and maintenance processes are expedited, inventory becomes more controlled and organized, and pick times fall dramatically. All of these factors contribute to a streamlined, efficient operation. For instance, mobile workstations make evacuation easier in low-lying areas because of pallet jackability and the option to move while fully loaded. All of these factors contribute to a more streamlined and efficient operation.

In heavy-duty industries, tough and durable storage solutions are critical. However, the decision to invest in storage can be difficult as the safety and protection of valuable tools, parts and other support equipment is at stake. The choice is further complicated by the inflexibility of static workstations that can’t be towed along by engineers in a time crunch. Mobile storage solutions solve both of these issues and optimize the use of space in backup warehouses and tool rooms of various sizes.

Strong and long-lasting shelving are the first benefit of efficient mobile storage, ensuring that tools and parts don’t take an unnecessary tumble as the result of poor storage quality. Similarly, drawers with lock-in or lock-out latches allow for full extension and visibility of contents without compromising security. Individual drawer latches help keep your cabinets and contents safe. Items being stored in these drawers are also protected from the wear-and-tear of dust and damage that occurs over time with other forms of shelving. With the added benefit of superior storage capacity, this means more tools and parts can be stored securely in central and satellite rig inventories.

Customized possibilities
Effective mobile storage also provides precise organization and ease of use. When making critical repairs, there isn’t much time for scuttling around searching for parts and tools that are stored haphazardly. Shelves that open at eye level and contain organizational accessories such as foam inserts, plastic dividers, and partitions save time.

The third benefit in the pyramid of mobile storage capabilities is the addition of mobile accessories and options, which can be fabricated and are continually interchangeable. Cabinet-top trays keep small or rolling parts securely in place and conveniently at-hand. Without these trays, parts could be easily lost or damaged in tense situations, ultimately making things harder for engineers, slowing down repair and maintenance processes, and cutting into the bottom line. Likewise, battens position items safely on shelves for transport, reducing the risk of damage. Additionally, to make the towing process easier for engineers, mobile workstations can be outfitted with tow bars. And, heavy-duty casters come in various sizes to hold the weight of cabinets and assist engineers in rolling them along. 

Keeping tools, parts and other equipment stored in an organized, efficient and safe manner ensures assists those performing necessary repairs and maintenance. Mobile storage solutions streamline this process, which increases operational efficiency and, ultimately, the bottom line.

About the author
Jeff Harris, who has advised many agencies on time and space management, is a 25-year veteran of Stanley Black & Decker SWS where he worked as sales engineer/Gulf Coast territory sales manager. His areas of expertise include maximizing efficiencies for in-process production and maintenance, storage of products and equipment, and effective transportation of material. For more information on the company or products, visit the Stanley Vidmar website.