In today’s episode, we are continuing our newest series with the Large Warehouse Stage and all that comes with that. When you think you are ready to transition into a larger warehouse space for your rental business, there are so many things to consider. Are you actually producing as many or enough events to help cover the overhead? With a larger space comes a larger price tag. Also, is your landlord or leasing office a good fit for you and your business? It is key that you work with people who have your back, especially if you face an unprecedented situation. 

We are excited to chat about what this looks like, and what the transition feels like, and we have some advice on things to help set you up for success. Trust us, we have been in business for a long time now and have experienced many styles of storage spaces, units, and warehouses.

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The Render HQ

We are located in the Design District of Dallas, TX and our warehouse is right at 10,000 sq ft in size. With it being one big rectangle, there are not exactly larger or specific separations of the space beside the office spaces. With multiple dock doors to load in and out of, we have truly learned how to maximize our space, our processes, and how to store our rental inventory. We chose our current warehouse on the types of events we do, and where we are mostly going for those events. This makes it easier for the loading in and loading out process for packing orders that go out most often.

Another thing to consider when looking for your warehouse space is the terms of your lease. If your lease is a 3-year, 5-year, etc., be sure to project and look at your numbers. What do you think your capacity for events is going to grow to? If you think that you are going to grow quickly and continue booking more events, it is smart to lean on the side of more than you need (as of now) space rather than not enough space. As your events grow, so do your inventory and the demand. If you have not considered this when looking for your warehouse, you may have yourself in a predicament 3 years from now when you are bursting at the seams with your inventory, your actual workspace for designing or inventory repairs, etc.

If you ever plan to make a visit, we would love to see you! Please email us at info@therender.co to schedule an appointment time. 

Large Warehouse Price Tag

We must consider the price tag — a larger location means a larger price tag. When you go from multiple locations, storage units, or a smaller place where you are paying less, something that is larger typically comes with a bigger payment. Compare the charge per square foot and make sure you are in a position to afford that larger space. Your largest expenses are going to be your payroll and your warehouse space. Ask yourself, am I bringing in enough revenue and booking enough events to afford this overhead? Make sure you are looking at your overall expenses versus what you can afford. Do not get yourself in a financial bind — compare the costs and be frugal with your money.

An extension to this is to make sure you are working with a landlord or leasing company that will work with you if you need it. With a larger space comes more responsibility in maintaining the space and the upkeep. Is your landlord going to fix things as needed or if something comes up? What about during the pandemic, did your landlord work with you when money was low and events canceled overnight? Working with someone who is in your corner is key to your success and meeting your goals. 

Location, Location, Location

We often hear realtors talk so much about location and the importance of this. What is the best location for your company? It is not exactly the smartest to move to a further location just for cheaper rent when the tolls, gas, and mileage on your company plus personal vehicles will equate to what you could be paying for a more convenient location. Are your employees able to get to and from your warehouse and office easily? This is key. Making sure your staff feels safe, and can get to and from the office or warehouse with ease is what will keep a good staff. What about the travel to and from your warehouse where the majority of your events are booked? This comes in handy during the early mornings or late nights during the event season when it is time to load in or load out. 

Maximizing Your Large Warehouse  

Now, when you get into your larger warehouse, making the best use of your space is key. Did you listen to our last episode on The Render Podcast, Ep. 135 — The Small Warehouse? If not, check that one out after this week’s episode to learn how we fixed the storage obstacle we hit. We will give you a sneak peek — teardrop racking. That was key to maximizing that vertical use of space to assist in keeping our horizontal and floor space from being cluttered. Setting up your teardrop racking that better helps you and your team with the loading and unloading process will also help keep your processes streamlined when it comes to pulling inventory for events. You can organize your inventory in a way that makes the most sense for what is most used and best showcased. 

That is all we have for you on this week’s episode and we hope that you have enjoyed this series on The Render Podcast. We have thoroughly loved sharing our tried and true tips and tricks with you! There is just one more episode in this series and we are excited for you to join us again next week! 

Joyfully, 

Raven Scott | Podcast Manager