Storage shelves should be the right size and type

Running a pizza parlor and stocking an auto parts store bring vastly different storage shelf requirements. Speed of access, height, mobility (wheels or pull-out shelves) and sturdiness all play into your choice of storage shelves.

I recommend: CLD Handling, Uline and Global Industrial supply a wide variety of warehouse shelving and other metal shelving and access items.

Consider metal shelving units before other materials

A serious warehouse or industrial setting will tear consumer-strength shelves to shreds in no time. Who will be using these storage shelves? Will workers be dumping heavy boxes on and off each storage shelf? Will forklifts or other mechanical equipment be in use nearby? Will workers put constant use on pull-out shelves.

I recommend: Some makers of heavy metal shelving include Mecalux, Material Handling Exchange, and Western Pacific Storage Solutions.

Industrial shelving comes in many types

Unless you manage to spend some time in the backroom of a competitor, it can be pretty hard to figure which type of storage shelving will work best for your business.

I recommend: Globalspec allows registered to users to browse literally thousands of catalogue entries at the click of a mouse. Yankee Supply sells used industrial shelving and metal shelving units. For a variety of options, take a look at Business.com's directory pages on storage shelves, metal shelving, and wire industrial shelving.

Even metal shelves come in several types

Wire metal storage shelves are lighter, easier to move if necessary, and don't collect dust or food (good for restaurants, for instance). Heavy-duty metal shelves, though, are better for liquids and in aisles where people move around the goods freely, such as in a warehouse.

I recommend: Some makers of lighter-duty metal shelves for display and light industrial use include Gershel Brothers, A Plus Warehouse and Uline. Office stores like Office Depot, Staples and Office Max handle lighter metal shelves or metal shelving units, including pull-out shelves that might work for some businesses.