Storage Solutions
Storage areas are supposed to keep a space organized and efficient; however, at times they can become cluttered which can cause more harm than good. Make the most of your storage areas with these tips and visit Central’s website for all your shelving needs!
Environment
Did you know different types of shelving are most effective for different types of environments?
Epoxy shelving, available in either Green or Central Blue, is ideal for humid environments; while chrome and zinc are better suited for dry spaces. Many epoxy coated shelves are available with antimicrobial protection which protects shelving against bacteria, mold, and mildew.
Once you’ve determined what type of shelving is best for your storage area, consider which kinds of shelves work best.
- Open design takes advantage of minimal surface area
- Provides good circulation for drying and temperature regulation
- Lighter in weight for easier mobility
- Design allows for better loading and unloading of product
- One-piece construction allows for more surface area to be used (especially great for small items)
- Easy to clean
- Ideal for messy areas (i.e. food prep or ware washing)
- Controls spills
Weight Capacities
All of Central’s shelving units include shelf weight capacity information. On average, stationary shelves 48″W and shorter hold 800 pounds and anything 60″W or longer hold 600 pounds. Those capacities vary slightly for mobile shelving but read all capacity listings in our catalog or on our website to confirm what a shelving unit can hold. For heavy duty storage needs, dunnage shelves are also available. Typically they can be added to a bottom of a storage unit with capacities up to 1000 pounds.
Keep in mind weight on shelves should be evenly distributed. Do not concentrate all the weight in one area.
Tips for Customization
Some storage areas may never need to change, while others could benefit from some minor updates from time to time. Many types of storage solutions can easily be adjusted to accommodate various heights or to add in more shelves. Color shelf markers, label holders and shelf dividers are available to organize a space more effectively.
Other tips for customizing storage shelving include:
- Shelf mats: Add on to vented shelves (many are dishwasher safe)
- S-Hooks: For add-on shelves
- Wire tray slides: Great to take advantage of space above shelving to store bun pans or trays
- Tray storage modules: Store and dry foodservice trays and pans
- Split sleeves: Use to connect shelves and posts
- Casters: Convert stationary shelves to mobile
Other Types of Storage
Sometimes certain storage areas require unique types of shelves. Consider the following options to maximize or better utilize space.
Wall Solutions
Wall shelving can be added almost anywhere to maximize storage for items like pots, pans, dish racks, cleaning supplies, and more. Complete or customizable wall storage systems are also available to provide storage with wall shelves, can holders, cylinder utensil holders, bottle drying hooks, utility racks, and more.
Pots, Pans and Trays
As mentioned earlier, there are add-ons available for storage — such as tray slides. One of the latest products from Metro is the MetroMax i™ Drying Rack Shelving System, which promotes food safety by eliminating moisture. Complete drying rack shelving units are available for trays or pots and pans. For establishments that already have MetroMax shelving, shelves can easily be converted to accommodate the tray or pot/pan drying racks.
Security
Need to make sure a storage area is secure? Several of Central’s manufacturers have enclosed security shelving units. These units can be secured with a padlock to keep contents protected from theft. Choose between full shelving kits or individual shelf conversion sets to best suit your needs.
Cans, Glassware and Dishes
Can racks often have a “first in, first out” design and are inclined to have cans glide for easy access. Can racks typically hold No. 5 or No. 10 cans. Glassware racks are great to store and transport glassware safely. There are a variety of caddies available to accommodate plates and flatware for bussing. These allow for the safe storage and transport of dishes and a sanitary environment for flatware.
Dunnage
For heavy duty storage needs, dunnage racks are a great addition. These shelves can hold anywhere from 750 pounds to 3000 pounds of storage. These can be added with shelving units but also can be placed in refrigerators or freezers as well.
More Information
For more storage solutions, visit CentralRestaurant.com or contact a Central Product Consultant at 800-215-9293.
Cody Bell is a content specialist with Central Restaurant Products. With over 7 years of experience in the foodservice industry, Cody has developed knowledge on topics from all aspects of commercial foodservice, from the front of the house to back of the house. He is a NAFEM Certified Foodservice Professional. In his free time, Cody likes to spend time with his wife and puppy.
