Often, we focus on the interior of the building and the grounds when spring arrives, but does your warehouse need a little TLC? Changing seasons presents you with the opportunity to do away with old methods of maintaining that space in favour of a fresh approach and a new strategy.

Here are some suggestions for getting your warehouse back into tip-top shape this spring and summer:

• Start by auditing and decluttering your warehouse. This includes managing inventory, assessing equipment, getting rid of any obsolete items, and updating your inventory records accordingly.
• Put everything away so you know where to find it. If you have cleaning supplies, brooms, paperwork, or loose items laying around, find a spot for them where you can easily have access when you need them next.
• Assess whether you are making the most of your storage space. Is there a more efficient system that might work? Could you add vertical storage to save space in your floor plan?
• Once you have reorganized and removed anything you don’t need, take the time to deep clean the space. Clean the floors, inside garbage and recycling bins, and storage rooms to get rid of all dust, dirt and debris, and open up the bay doors if you can, to let light and fresh air inside.
• Take a look at your equipment including forklifts, machinery, and equipment. Identify any signs of wear and tear, note any replacement or repairs required, and set a schedule for your budget.
• While you are looking at your equipment, top-up first aid kits, test fire alarms and emergency exits so you know that everything is in working order for the season.
• Consider updating your tools to better manage the warehouse. From inventory management to order fulfilment, it might be time to add technology to streamline operations and increase efficiency.
• Pay attention to the outside of your warehouse too. Clean and clear all loading ramps and doors to simplify deliveries and keep that space clean.
• If spring cleaning is not part of your regularly scheduled maintenance, set up a plan to conduct a thorough audit, organization, and cleaning seasonally.

Spring is a great time to take another look at the condition of your warehouse, tighten up inventory management, and set yourself up for success through the rest of the year.