No matter what the nature of the job is, saving time has undeniably proven to provide an advantage. This is especially the case with jobs that include costs for transportation and where the work schedule is very tight. One such job is that of construction contractors.
Construction contractors have to deal with various types of equipment and tools. Usually, these tools and equipment are quite heavy and require a good amount of time and effort and energy to move. Now, for contractors, time is of the essence, and a project can be managed much better if there is a good set-up for storage space.
How contractors benefit from storage spaces
A storage space is a designated area for contractors to store their equipment in so they can easily access it when needed. There are many different types of storage space. They can be categorized as:
1. Storing on site
Storing on the site, as the name suggests, is storing the equipment on the work site in question. This perhaps might be the most convenient way of storage. It cuts off transportation cost altogether and removes the hassle of hauling the equipment to and fro.
Moreover, this type of storage eliminates the damage that can be caused by transportation or weathering. Storing on-site means that there will not be any delays when it comes to equipment. The work process will also be faster as all equipment will be available on site.
2. Warehouse storage
This is perhaps one of the most costly ways of providing storage during a project. However, it has its perks. It is the safest and most convenient solution a contractor can opt for. However, not everyone can muster up the funds to rent a warehouse.
In addition, there are various things to consider while deciding on a warehouse as a storage option. Some of the factors include the length of the contract and the need for space. Even the seasons can be an influence on your decision as the need for space varies with each season.
3. Storing at home
Home here refers to the headquarters or the base of the contractor. Though the equipment will be accounted for when it is stored at home, there are issues that may arise. For example, the first issue is again of transport.
Secondly, when the storage is already filled with equipment, it will take a longer time to sift through it all to get what you need. This is the reason why many contractors do not prefer this method of storing. It is much more time consuming than the other two options.
Why efficient storage space for contractors is necessary
Now, you must be wondering that the contractor’s main job has little to do with storing. That might be true. However, inefficient storage can pose a big threat to the project’s productivity and in consequence, its profit? Why? The answer is actually quite simple.
- Keeps equipment safe
The tools and equipment play an integral role in any project. If any harm is done to the equipment, the result will directly translate to the profit. This is because most, if not all, work is done by these pieces of equipment. Good tools and equipment can make or break the project.
Although most equipment is sturdy, constant wear and tear or weathering can result in the equipment losing its special touch; especially if the project is being carried out on difficult terrain. Of course, damage also means that the equipment must be repaired or replaced. This can cost a healthy sum of money.
To avoid these unnecessary costs, efficient storage is necessary. It keeps the equipment safe and sound regardless of the surroundings and the weather.
- Reduces transport cost
Earlier on, we talked about how the delay of equipment can also affect the productivity of a project. If the equipment is not transported efficiently, the whole work line is held up. Therefore, efficient storage plays a very important role in any project. Since there are many different kinds of equipment used, moving the can also result in a hefty cost.
Not only would one require transport, but the cost of fuel will also add up. As mentioned before, unnecessary costs like these can be avoided through efficient storage.
- Makes it easy to track items
Another thing storage helps with is keeping inventory. The tools and equipment can easily be taken count at the start of the day. By the end of the day, when the work is done, they can easily be stored without missing anything as you can easily refer back to the data that was taken earlier.
Due to this, management will be much easier, and if something is wrong with the equipment, the contractor can be informed timely.
- Allows smoother workflow
Efficient storage also means that all equipment is easily accessible. This means that there will be no hindrances in the workflow.
A smooth workflow can be a cause for profit in itself. When everything is done in time and deadlines are met, it will reduce costs and increase profits. When all the equipment is stored in a specific location, the workers can also have peace of mind. They do not have to constantly worry about the whereabouts and the safety of the equipment. This thus allows them to focus more on the project and in turn increase productivity levels.
- Reduces chances of injury
Efficient storage can help lower the risk of injuries caused by the moving of heavy duty equipment. As mentioned previously, the equipment can be heavy and dangerous to move. The transporter also has a great risk of being injured. If a worker gets injured, that could result in a loss of labor and added hospital costs as well. The loss of labor also means that the pace of work will also get slower. This will again add up to the costs that should be kept at a minimum.
Conclusion
Therefore, efficient storage space is very important for any contractor. Not only does it provide a safe environment for important equipment, but it also helps to reduce costs and increase profits.