Three Counties Material Handling - Three Counties UK Material Handling

Somerset, Devon, and Dorset Material Handling Support Services

Three Counties Material Handling is your trusted partner for storage solutions in the south west of England. Serving Somerset, Devon, and Dorset with our expertise in material handling, the safe and efficient movement of goods between farms, warehouses, factories, and supermarkets. Part of Clark Mezzanines Ltd, a John Clark company based in Bridport, Dorset. Request a site visit from John, who will help you plan your new warehouse facility, mezzanine, racking, and MHE purchases. John is within a two-hour drive from Bournemouth, Bristol, and Exeter.

Contact John at john@threecountiesmaterialhandling.com for quality material handling equipment and services.

John Clark, a material handling knowlege expert, specailising in warehousing, mezzanine, pallet racking, rack safety inspections, material handling equipment, industrial outdoor storage, warehouse outfitting and the sourcing of MHE, will share how you can gain a competitive edge for your business by applying some basic principles of material handling. These principles include:

Planning: choosing the best way to handle materials from source to destination
Standardization: using consistent and compatible methods, equipment, and units
Work: minimizing the effort and time required for material handling
Ergonomics: ensuring the safety and comfort of the workers and the materials
Unit load: grouping materials into larger and manageable units
Space utilization: maximizing the use of available space in storage and transportation
System: coordinating and integrating all the material handling activities and functions
Automation: using technology to optimize and simplify material handling processes
Environment: minimizing the environmental impact of material handling operations
Life cycle cost: considering the total cost of owning and operating material handling equipment and systems

These principles can benefit any industry that involves material handling, including the logistic industry in the south west of England. This is a growing and competitive market that requires efficient and reliable industrial and logistics services. By applying these principles, logistic providers can:

Plan optimal routes, modes, and methods for transporting goods across the region.
Standardize their material handling practices and equipment to ensure compatibility and quality.
Work smarter and faster by reducing the material handling effort and time.
Ergonomize their material handling operations to prevent injuries and damages.
Unitize their materials into larger and easier-to-handle units.
Utilize their space effectively in warehousing and distribution.
Systemize their material handling functions and processes into a coherent and responsive supply chain.
Automate their material handling activities and systems using software, sensors, and robots.
Environmentize their material handling operations to reduce their carbon footprint and comply with the environmental regulations and standards in the UK.
Costize their material handling equipment and systems to minimize the total cost of ownership and operation.

Material Handling Servcies

Warehouse Mezzanine

Mezzanine floor space in the industrial warehouse context are elevated platforms that create additional space. Made of hardened steel they are ridged similar to pallet racks and are customised to fit the specific needs and dimensions of the facility. Mezzanine floors, although flexible, are built for specific purposes, such as storage, office, production, engineering, assembly, packing and or commerce space, even customer showrooms, staff pantry, or restrooms.

They improve the efficiency and productivity of the warehouse operations by optimising the use of vertical space and reducing the need for new construction or relocation. Mezzanine floors are designed to meet the structural and safety standards of the industry and the local codes. They are installed with minimal disruption to the existing floor area and can be easily dismantled and relocated if needed.

Mezzanine floors are also offer tax benefits, as they are considered capital equipment rather than permanent building improvements. Mezzanine floors are a cost-effective and flexible solution for expanding the capacity and functionality of industrial warehouses.

Warehouse Pallet Rack Installation

Warehouse rack installation is a process of setting up steel structures that can hold pallets of goods in a warehouse or other industrial facility. Warehouse racks are designed to optimize the use of space, increase the efficiency of storage and retrieval, and enhance the safety and security of the stored items. Warehouse rack installation requires careful planning, design, and execution to ensure that the racks meet the specific needs and standards of the facility and the industry.

There are different types of warehouse racks available, such as adjustable, narrow aisle, drive-in, double deep, push back, live storage, mobile, and carpet racks. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the size, shape, weight, and quantity of the pallets to be stored, as well as the frequency and method of access. Warehouse rack installation specifications vary depending on the type of rack chosen, but some common factors to consider are:

The load capacity and dimensions of the pallets and the racks
The layout and configuration of the warehouse floor and the rack aisles
The seismic and fire safety requirements of the local codes and regulations
The quality and durability of the steel materials and components used for the racks
The installation methods and tools used by the qualified and experienced installers
The inspection and maintenance procedures and schedules for the racks

Warehouse racks made from toughened steel are preferred for their strength, stability, and resistance to corrosion and wear. Toughened steel is a type of steel that has been heat-treated to increase its hardness and toughness, making it more suitable for heavy-duty applications. Toughened steel racks can withstand higher loads, impacts, and temperatures than ordinary steel racks, and can also reduce the risk of rack collapse or damage in case of earthquakes or fires. However, toughened steel racks may also require more careful installation and maintenance, as they may be more prone to cracking or brittleness if not handled properly.

Warehouse rack installation specifications for warehouse pallet storage in the UK are governed by the Storage Equipment Manufacturer’s Association (SEMA), which is the leading authority on safe storage practices and standards. SEMA provides codes of practice, guidelines, and training for the design, installation, inspection, and maintenance of warehouse racks and other storage equipment. SEMA also operates a network of approved rack inspectors and distributors, who can ensure that the warehouse rack installation meets the highest quality and safety standards. Warehouse rack installation specifications for warehouse pallet storage in the UK should also comply with the relevant British and European standards, such as BS EN 15512 and BS EN 15620, which specify the general requirements and tolerances for steel static storage systems.

Rack Safety Inspection

Rack Safety Inspection is a service provided by SEMA Approved Inspectors, who are highly qualified professionals in the field of storage equipment safety. SEMA stands for Storage Equipment Manufacturer’s Association, which is the British trade association of the industry. SEMA Rack Safety Inspection aims to help warehouse owners and operators comply with the health and safety legislations and standards, as well as to reduce the risks of accidents and damages caused by faulty or misused racking systems.

Rack Safety Inspection consists of the following steps:

The inspector will check the rack configuration, type, and manufacturer, and identify the components and accessories used.
The inspector will also verify that the load notice matches the actual rack and that it is clearly visible and legible.
The inspector will assess the condition and integrity of the racking system, looking for any signs of damage, corrosion, deformation, or misalignment.
The inspector will document the defects and faults found, using a traffic light system to indicate the severity and urgency of the issue. Red items require immediate action, amber items require action within four weeks, and green items are acceptable.
The inspector will provide a detailed report with photographic evidence and recommendations on how to rectify the problems and prevent further deterioration.
The inspector will also issue a completion certificate and a SEMA inspection certificate, which are valid for one year.

Rack Safety Inspection Sutton Seeds Paignton Devon Three Counties Material Handling

SEMA Rack Safety Inspection is a valuable and essential service for any warehouse that uses racking systems to store goods and products. It can help improve the performance, quality, and profitability of the business, as well as the satisfaction and well-being of the customers and workers.

Material Handling Expertise

Material Handling Expertise is the knowledge and skill of applying the best practices and methods of moving, storing, controlling, and protecting materials in various industries and settings. Material handling is a vital aspect of any operation that involves the production, distribution, consumption, or disposal of goods and products. It affects the efficiency, productivity, safety, and quality of the processes and outcomes.

Material handling can be classified into two main types: manual and automated. Manual material handling involves the use of human labor to move and handle materials, usually with the help of carts, dollies, or other simple devices. Automated material handling involves the use of machines and equipment to perform the same tasks, such as conveyors, robots, forklifts, or cranes. Both types have their advantages and disadvantages, depending on the nature, volume, and frequency of the material flow.

Material handling experts are professionals who have the experience and knowledge of designing, implementing, and maintaining material handling systems and solutions. They can help optimize the use of space, time, and resources, as well as reduce the risks of injuries, damages, and errors. Material handling experts can also provide training, guidance, and support to the workers and managers involved in the material handling processes.

Material handling expertise is based on several principles and concepts of:

The right material: selecting the appropriate type and quality of material for the intended purpose and function
The right place: locating the material in the optimal position and location for easy access and movement
The right time: delivering the material at the right moment and frequency to meet the demand and schedule
The right quantity: providing the right amount and size of material to avoid excess or shortage
The right method: choosing the right mode and technique of material handling to ensure safety, speed, and accuracy
The right equipment: selecting the right tools and devices to facilitate and enhance the material handling process
The right cost: minimizing the total cost of material handling, including the direct and indirect expenses and losses

Material handling expertise is a valuable and essential skill for any industry and operation that deals with materials. It can help improve the performance, quality, and profitability of the business, as well as the satisfaction and well-being of the customers and workers.

Industrial Outdoor Storage (IOS) solutions

Industrial Outdoor Storage (IOS) solutions are storage options that use outdoor spaces within commercial properties to store various materials, equipment, or assets related to business operations. IOS solutions can offer secure, scalable, and cost-effective storage solutions, allowing businesses to optimize their operations and streamline their supply chains. With the rising demand for efficient storage solutions, IOS has emerged as a critical component of the modern business landscape.

There are different types of IOS solutions available, depending on the specific storage requirements and industry needs of the businesses. Some of the common types of IOS solutions are:

Yard storage involves the utilization of open outdoor spaces, often paved or gravel-covered, to store large items or equipment, such as vehicles, machinery, or construction materials.
Container storage entails the use of shipping containers placed outdoors for the storage of goods and materials, such as palletized goods, inventory, or shipping containers.
Trailer storage involves the use of trailers parked outdoors for the storage of goods and materials, such as vehicles, machinery, or inventory.
Open-air storage involves the use of covered or uncovered structures, such as sheds, canopies, or tents, to store goods and materials that require some protection from the elements, such as boats, recreational vehicles, or sensitive equipment.

IOS solutions can provide various benefits for businesses, such as:

Cost-Effectiveness: Outdoor storage options can be more affordable compared to renting or building indoor warehouse space, especially for businesses with large or irregularly shaped inventory.
Flexibility: With different types of IOS solutions available, businesses have the flexibility to choose the most suitable option based on their specific storage requirements and industry needs.
Easy Access and Handling: Outdoor storage allows for convenient access and handling of inventory, making it easier for businesses to load and unload items as needed. This can lead to improved operational efficiency and reduced time spent on inventory management.
Scalability: As businesses grow, IOS solutions can be easily expanded or modified to accommodate additional inventory. This scalability ensures that storage capacity keeps up with the demand.

IOS solutions are designed to meet the structural and safety standards of the industry and the local codes. They are installed with minimal disruption to the existing floor area and can be easily dismantled and relocated if needed. They also offer security features, such as fencing, surveillance, and monitoring, to protect the stored items from theft or unauthorized access.

IOS solutions are a valuable and essential service for any industry and operation that deals with materials. They can help improve the performance, quality, and profitability of the business, as well as the satisfaction and well-being of the customers and workers. To consider why Industrial Outdoor Storage is growing visit the Cauble Group, Flowfile, Spotlight and the Savills article alternative business use for land.

Warehouse Out-Fiting

Warehouse Out-Fitting is the process of equipping a warehouse with the necessary storage systems, equipment, and accessories to optimize the use of space, increase the efficiency of operations, and enhance the safety and security of the stored goods. Warehouse Out-Fitting involves the planning, design, installation, and maintenance of various components, such as racking systems, shelving units, pallets, containers, conveyors, forklifts, robots, fire protection systems, lighting systems, and ventilation systems. Warehouse Out-Fitting requires careful consideration of the specific needs and standards of the warehouse and the industry, as well as the compliance with the relevant codes and regulations.

Warehouse Out-Fitting can provide various benefits for warehouse owners and operators, such as:

Cost-Effectiveness: Warehouse Out-Fitting can help reduce the cost of renting or building additional warehouse space, as well as the cost of inventory management, transportation, and labor.
Flexibility: Warehouse Out-Fitting can offer a range of storage solutions that can be customized to fit the size, shape, weight, and quantity of the goods to be stored, as well as the frequency and method of access.
Easy Access and Handling: Warehouse Out-Fitting can facilitate the loading and unloading of goods, as well as the movement and retrieval of goods within the warehouse. This can improve the operational efficiency and reduce the time and errors involved in the storage process.
Scalability: Warehouse Out-Fitting can allow for the expansion or modification of the storage capacity and functionality of the warehouse, as the demand and requirements change over time.
Safety and Security: Warehouse Out-Fitting can provide fire protection systems, surveillance systems, and monitoring systems, to protect the stored goods from fire, theft, or unauthorized access. Warehouse Out-Fitting can also ensure the structural and mechanical integrity of the storage systems, as well as the safety and well-being of the workers.

Warehouse Out-Fitting is a valuable and essential service for any warehouse that deals with goods and products. It can help improve the performance, quality, and profitability of the warehouse, as well as the satisfaction and well-being of the customers and workers.

Material Handling Equipment

Material handling equipment is designed to meet the structural and safety standards of the industry and the local codes. They are installed with minimal disruption to the existing floor area and can be easily dismantled and relocated if needed. They also offer security features, such as fencing, surveillance, and monitoring, to protect the stored items from theft or unauthorized access.

Material handling equipment is a valuable and essential service for any industry and operation that deals with materials. It can help improve the performance, quality, and profitability of the business, as well as the satisfaction and well-being of the customers and workers.

Material handling is important to the South West of England

Material handling is important to the economy of the south west of England because it is an integral part of the manufacturing process, and can be found at every stage throughout the supply chain. Safe, effective and efficient material handling can have a huge impact on a company’s bottom line. The south west of England has a diverse and dynamic economy, with strengths in sectors such as advanced engineering, aerospace, defence, life sciences, tourism, and agriculture. These sectors rely on material handling to move, store, and protect their goods and products, from raw materials to finished goods.

Material handling can also help the south west of England to achieve its goals of increasing productivity, innovation, and sustainability, by reducing waste, improving quality, and enhancing safety. For example, material handling can help to optimise the use of space, energy, and resources, as well as to minimise the environmental impact of transportation and logistics.

The UK government recognizes the importance of material handling as an industry that supports the manufacturing process and the supply chain of various sectors and regions. The UK government has several plans and strategies to boost the growth and innovation of material handling and related industries, such as:

The Growth Plan 2022, which sets a target of reaching a 2.5% trend rate of sustainable growth and makes growth the government’s central economic mission.
Build Back Better: our plan for growth, which outlines how the government will support the recovery and transformation of the economy after the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on three pillars: infrastructure, skills, and innovation.
UK Innovation Strategy: leading the future by creating it, which sets out the government’s vision and actions to make the UK a global hub for innovation by 2035, investing in research and development, supporting businesses and entrepreneurs, and fostering a pro-innovation culture and institutions.
UK Research and Development Roadmap, which sets out the government’s ambition to increase public investment in research and development to £22 billion per year by 2024 to 2025, and to create a more diverse, dynamic, and resilient research and innovation system.
Industrial Strategy: building a Britain fit for the future, which identifies four grand challenges that will shape the future of the UK economy and society, and sets out five foundations of productivity: ideas, people, infrastructure, business environment, and places.

These plans and strategies aim to enhance the competitiveness and performance of material handling and other industries, as well as to increase productivity, innovation, and sustainability across the UK economy.

The Growth Plan 2022, which sets a target of reaching a 2.5% trend rate of sustainable growth and makes growth the government’s central economic mission.
Build Back Better: our plan for growth, which outlines how the government will support the recovery and transformation of the economy after the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on three pillars: infrastructure, skills, and innovation.
UK Innovation Strategy: leading the future by creating it, which sets out the government’s vision and actions to make the UK a global hub for innovation by 2035, investing in research and development, supporting businesses and entrepreneurs, and fostering a pro-innovation culture and institutions.
UK Research and Development Roadmap, which sets out the government’s ambition to increase public investment in research and development to £22 billion per year by 2024 to 2025, and to create a more diverse, dynamic, and resilient research and innovation system.
Industrial Strategy: building a Britain fit for the future, which identifies four grand challenges that will shape the future of the UK economy and society, and sets out five foundations of productivity: ideas, people, infrastructure, business environment, and places.