So you're looking to rent some warehouse space for your business. Great idea - more room means more opportunity for growth. But before you sign on the dotted line, there are a few things you need to consider. Renting warehouse space is a big commitment, and you want to make sure you find a place that suits your needs now and in the future. When searching for rentable warehouse space, keep these five must-have factors in mind. Get them right, and you'll end up with a space you'll love for years to come. Miss one, and you could end up regretting your decision pretty quickly. Ready to find your perfect warehouse space? Let's dive in.
Location and Accessibility
When looking for warehouse space to rent, location and accessibility should be at the top of your list.
You'll want a spot that's convenient for both you and your customers or suppliers to get to. Think about things like proximity to major highways, public transit, and shipping centers. The easier it is to transport goods in and out, the better.
Also consider the neighborhood and what's around the warehouse. An area with lots of foot traffic could be good for retail, while an industrial park might suit distribution needs well. Make sure there are amenities for your staff nearby too, like restaurants, gas stations or banks.
Once you've found some promising locations, check out access points like loading docks and parking. At least one ground-level loading dock is ideal, along with ample parking for staff, customers and delivery vehicles. You'll also want drive-in access so trucks can easily maneuver.
Also look at the actual space inside and any available office areas. Make sure there's enough square footage for your needs, proper ventilation and lighting, and that the layout will work for your operations. Think about how you'll organize inventory, equipment, packing stations and more.
While location and access are most important, don't forget to consider lease terms, utility costs, and any renovation needs. Make sure the space genuinely suits your budget and requirements before signing on the dotted line.
With the perfect spot secured, you'll be set up for success. Your warehouse will be easy to get to, convenient for business, and just right for your needs.
Size and Layout
When looking for warehouse space to rent, size and layout are two of the most important factors to consider. You'll want a space that's suited for your needs and allows for efficient operations.
Look for a warehouse that's an appropriate size for your inventory and equipment. Too small, and you won't have room to grow. Too big, and you'll end up paying for more space than you actually need. Think about how much space you currently use and how much you might need over the lifetime of your lease.
The layout and design of the warehouse also matter a lot. An open floor plan will give you flexibility, while separate rooms may suit some businesses better. You'll want wide aisles, high ceilings, and loading docks that can accommodate your trucks. Check that the electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems are up to the task of supporting your operations.
Also consider the location within the warehouse. Ground-level spaces will allow for easy loading and unloading, while upper levels may be more secure. Spaces near the center of the building will be more accessible, while spaces along the outer edges may have more natural light. Think about what locations will work best for your needs.
With some forethought about your space requirements now and in the future, you can find a warehouse with a size and layout well-suited to your business. The right match will help maximize productivity and allow your company room to grow.
Safety and Security
When searching for warehouse space to rent, safety and security should be high on your list of priorities. No one wants their inventory or equipment damaged, stolen or tampered with. Consider these factors to ensure you and your assets remain protected:
Access Control
Look for a building with limited access points that are secured after business hours. This could include things like keycard access, security gates, alarm systems and security guards. Ask about their procedures for granting and revoking employee access cards. Fewer keys and access points mean fewer opportunities for unauthorized access.
Surveillance
Choose a warehouse with a monitored security camera system. Cameras should survey the exterior, all access points, loading docks and the interior. Make sure the footage is recorded and archived in case an incident occurs. Some systems also have motion-activated cameras for enhanced monitoring. Knowing the facility is under constant watch will deter criminal behavior.
Lighting
Adequate lighting is a simple deterrent against theft and vandalism. Look for a space with bright lighting in the parking lot, loading areas, entryways, hallways and the actual storage space. Dark, shadowy areas invite illegal activity. Ask if the lights are on timers or motion sensors for maximum coverage during off hours.
Alarms
An alarm system connected to a monitoring center is ideal. Look for one with door and window sensors, motion detectors and fire alarms. An audible alarm may scare off intruders, while a monitored system will dispatch authorities immediately in case of unauthorized access or emergencies.
Secure Storage
For high-value items, look for a facility offering secure storage options like locked cages, rooms or vaults. These provide an added layer of protection for sensitive inventory, documents, equipment and other assets. Only authorized individuals should have keys or access to these secure storage areas.
By choosing a warehouse that prioritizes safety and security, you can rest easy knowing your business and its assets are well-protected. Conduct thorough evaluations of multiple facilities to find the one that meets all your needs. Your inventory and equipment are too valuable to leave unsecured.
Climate Control
When searching for warehouse space, climate control is a must-have factor to consider. The temperature and humidity levels can directly impact your inventory, equipment, and employee productivity.
Temperature Regulation
Look for a space with a programmable thermostat so you can set the temperature to your ideal range. For most warehouses, 55 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit is a good target.
Check if the current HVAC system is properly sized for the square footage. An undersized unit will struggle to maintain a consistent temperature, especially in extreme weather.
See if the space has additional heating/cooling options like space heaters, fans, or portable AC units in case the main system needs repair or for particularly hot or cold areas.
Humidity Control
Try to find a space with a humidity control system, especially if you'll be storing sensitive electronics, wood products, or paper goods. A relative humidity of 30 to 50% is usually recommended for warehouses.
Look for signs of excess moisture like water stains, mold or mildew growth which could indicate humidity issues. High humidity can lead to rust, corrosion, and product damage.
Ask if a dehumidifier is available if the humidity cannot be controlled centrally. Localized dehumidification may be needed for some areas.
Air Quality
Check that the warehouse has an exhaust fan, vents, or other means of ventilation to prevent the buildup of fumes, dust, and stale air.
See if the space has special filtration systems like HEPA filters if you'll be storing or working with chemicals, pollutants or allergens.
Determine if the current ventilation system provides enough air changes per hour for the size of the space and your intended use. Most warehouses need at least 2 to 4 air changes per hour.
Controlling the climate in your warehouse space is essential to keeping your inventory, equipment and employees in good condition. Be sure to evaluate all aspects of the temperature, humidity, and air quality before signing a lease to find a space that suits your needs. The right environment can make a big impact on your business operations and bottom line.
Available Utilities and Services
When searching for warehouse space to rent, the available utilities and services should be high on your list of factors to consider. The right utilities and amenities can make a space much more functional and help your business run efficiently.
Power Supply
Make sure there is adequate electrical service for your needs. Do you require heavy-duty power for manufacturing equipment or just basic power for lighting and small tools? Ask about the number of power outlets, amperage, and voltage available. It may be worth paying more for upgraded electrical service.
Heating and Cooling
Warehouse space typically requires heating and cooling for employee comfort as well as temperature-sensitive inventory or materials. Inquire about the HVAC system, thermostats, insulation, and any additional units you may need. Zoning the space into different temperature controlled areas is ideal for many businesses.
Plumbing
If your operations require plumbing, determine what plumbing fixtures are in place and their condition. Check on the number of bathrooms, sinks, drains, water heaters, sprinkler systems for fire suppression, and any equipment hookups needed. Upgrading or installing new plumbing can be expensive, so factor that into your rental budget.
Internet Connectivity
For most modern businesses, a fast, reliable internet connection is a must. Ask the property owner or manager about internet service providers available for the space, connection speeds, wiring, and any additional fees. Make sure the connectivity will suit your needs before signing a lease.
Additional Services
Find out what other services are included or can be added on, such as trash collection, snow removal, landscaping, security, loading docks, and storage. The more services provided or available, the more functional and convenient the space will be for your business. Factor in any additional service fees when determining if the rent fits your budget.
The utilities, amenities, and services available in a warehouse space are significant considerations when searching for a rental property. Make sure to evaluate your needs thoroughly and ask the right questions to find a space with everything necessary to operate efficiently. The ideal space for your business is out there!
Conclusion
So there you have it, the five key things to keep in mind when searching for warehouse space to rent. Location, size, lease terms, amenities, and price are all crucial factors that will determine if the space is right for your needs. Do your homework, visit a few options in person, and make sure you understand all the details in the lease before signing on the dotted line. The perfect warehouse is out there, you just have to find it. Happy hunting!
0 Comments