Keeping small parts organised can be difficult, especially in busy workshops, warehouses and storerooms. Items such as fittings, components, fixings and other small stock can easily become mixed together or difficult to find.
Using the right storage bins can make these items easier to organise, identify and access. With different sizes and designs available, storage bins can be used to create a practical storage system that suits your workplace.
Why Is Small Parts Storage Important?
Small parts are often used regularly, so being able to find them quickly can save time and make everyday tasks more efficient.
Without a suitable storage system, small items can end up spread across shelves, workbenches or boxes. This can make stock harder to identify and may result in employees spending unnecessary time looking for individual parts.
A dedicated small parts storage system keeps similar items together and gives each type of stock its own space.
Choose The Right Size Storage Bin
One of the first things to consider is the size of the items you need to store.
Warehouse Storage Products offers Rhino Tuff Plastic Bins in a range of sizes, from smaller bins for compact components to larger options for bulkier items. They can also be stacked or used with louvre panels, cabinets and shelving systems.
Choosing a bin that is too large can waste valuable storage space, while a bin that is too small may not hold enough stock. Measuring your items before choosing your bins can help you select a suitable size.
Use Labels To Identify Contents
Labelling storage bins is a simple way to make small parts easier to find.
A clear label can show exactly what is inside each bin, meaning employees do not need to open multiple containers to find the correct item.
The Rhino Tuff Plastic Bins available from Warehouse Storage Products have a large label area for identification.
For a busy workplace, keeping labels consistent can make the whole storage area easier to understand.
Separate Different Parts
Try to give each type of small part its own designated storage space.
For example, different sizes or types of fittings can be kept in separate bins rather than being mixed together. This makes stock easier to identify and can help prevent items from being misplaced.
Small Parts Shelf Bins can also be useful for organising smaller components. Their open-front design allows the contents to be viewed and accessed easily, while dividers can be added to create separate compartments where required.
Make Frequently Used Parts Easy To Reach
The items that are used most often should ideally be stored somewhere that employees can access easily.
Open-front storage bins can be particularly useful because the contents can be seen without having to remove a lid.
Warehouse Storage Products also offers Small Parts Storage & Containers, which have a semi-open front and an area for identification labels. These containers can be stacked or used with louvre panels, cabinets and shelving systems.
Make Use Of Available Wall Space
If floor space is limited, wall-mounted storage can be a useful option.
Using storage systems on walls can keep small parts organised while leaving work surfaces and floor areas clear.
Clear Compartment Storage Boxes are designed for organising small components in areas such as workshops, production lines and service areas. They can be wall-mounted and their clear compartments make it easier to identify stored items.
Keep Similar Items Together
Organising bins into groups can make a storage area much easier to navigate.
For example, you could keep similar components together and arrange bins according to the type, size or frequency of use of the items inside.
A consistent layout means employees can quickly learn where different parts are stored, helping make picking and restocking more straightforward.
Consider A Complete Storage System
For workplaces that need to store a large number of small parts, individual bins may not be enough on their own.
Warehouse Storage Products also offers Plastic Container Bin Shelving, which combines shelving with plastic bins to create a dedicated small parts storage system. The shelving is supplied with five chipboard shelves and plastic bins, providing a way to store and organise inventory in one unit.
For larger storage requirements, Rivet Racking Bays with Shelf Bins are another option. These combine racking with shelf bins designed for part picking and storage, making them suitable for warehouses, workshops and storerooms.
Tips For Keeping Small Parts Organised
Once you have created your storage system, keeping it organised is just as important.
Some simple tips include:
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Label every storage bin clearly
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Keep similar items together
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Return parts to their correct bin after use
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Avoid overfilling containers
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Regularly check and remove unwanted stock
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Keep frequently used items easy to reach
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Use consistent labelling throughout the storage area
Find The Right Storage Bins For Your Workplace
A good small parts storage system can make a workplace more organised and make everyday tasks easier. From individual plastic bins to complete shelving systems, there are different options available depending on the amount and type of stock you need to store.
Warehouse Storage Products offers a range of storage bins, small parts containers, shelving and storage systems, giving businesses plenty of options for organising their stock.
By choosing the right size bins, using clear labels and keeping similar items together, you can create a storage system that makes small parts easier to find, access and manage.