Do you realise that majority of business owners are inconvenienced by industrial space optimisation, and thus, have gigantic impacts on productivity as well as overheads?
Whether you are expanding an existing operation or starting from the ground up, the ideal size for your factory unit could have an immense impact on your bottom line, expansion as well as day-to-day workflow.
The correct size, and you’re off and running to success. The incorrect size, and you’ll either have unused space or loose, inefficient operations.
So how do you know what the correct size is for your business requirements?
Key Factors Determining the Size of Your Industrial Space
As you figure out exactly how much space you actually need, the next key factors come into consideration:
Nature of Your Business
The type of business that you are engaged in will also play a key role in determining what space requirements you have. A manufacturing company, for example, will need more space for production lines, equipment, and inventory, while a service company might need little or no storage and office space.
Production and Storage Needs
For businesses that have operations in retailing, manufacturing, or logistics, the amount of raw material or inventory that you use on a daily basis will determine the amount of space you need. Knowing how much storage space you need currently and in the future so that you do not under-or-overestimate the space required, is important.
Workforce Size
How many employees do you expect to have in the facility? Your office staff, production staff, or warehouse staff, your level of labour will directly affect your industrial space requirements. Make sure to factor in your plans to bring on additional help in the future, especially if you believe you will grow quickly.
Equipment and Machinery
Your production area must also have enough space for your machinery and equipment. There needs to be space for heavy equipment or automated systems, including space for installation, use, and maintenance of equipment properly. Give enough elbow room around equipment for workflow and safety as well.
Industry-Specific Considerations
Different industries require different things. For example, a food processor might require cold storage areas, whereas a tech company might require office space for employees and the warehouse. Consider these requirements carefully in order to determine your space will suit your business requirements.
How to Determine Your Industrial Space Needs
Having assessed your business’s requirements, it’s time to start figuring out the exact space required. Here’s how to do it step by step:
1. Measure Warehouse Capacity
First, think of the storage space needed. Consider your stock’s footprint, i.e., floor area as well as height. If your warehouse has pallets, for instance, calculate the space each pallet will take and then multiply by the number of pallets anticipated.
2. Account for Operational Workflow
Assess how your business operations flow within the space. Create a layout that accommodates the movement of goods and employees. You’ll need to account for walkways, vehicle access, loading docks, and safety zones.
3. Factor in Safety and Compliance
Adherence to safety and regulatory standards is paramount. The size of your industrial space must allow for adequate fire exits, emergency equipment, and proper ventilation, particularly in industries like manufacturing and warehousing.
4. Estimate Space Per Employee
A rough office or work area guideline is to allow approximately 100 to 150 square feet per employee, but it will vary depending on the type of work and equipment.
Scalability and Ability to Expand for Future Growth
Your business location has to not only suit your needs today, but also be able to grow tomorrow. Your company will grow, after all, and your space needs can change over time. Think about the following:
- Modular Layouts: Look for spaces with flexible floor plans that can be rearranged easily as your business grows.
- Leasing Options: Find out if the lease allows expansion or future added space.
- Multi-Purpose Areas: Plan for an area that serves for more than a single purpose, i.e., general office and storage space.
When selecting an industrial premises, you need to plan your requirements well enough that you do not overstretch or underperform. Make sure that you factor in the size of your operations, production level, number of staff, and whether your business may expand in size. Through a methodical way of selecting an industrial location, your industrial location will be able to meet your business needs today and future opportunities.
If you are still not sure, seek some advice from real estate professionals or use space-planning computer programs to assist you in making your best choice. Start planning now, and find the perfect industrial space that will lead you to success in the long run.
