“We also looked at some models offered by other manufacturers”, he continues. “But in the end this was the only rack that we went to view for ourselves. We had originally intended to do this at TechniShow, but it was cancelled due to the coronavirus crisis. Instead we made an appointment for a demonstration at aalbers|farina in Renswoude.”
And is he enthusiastic about the new purchase? “Yes, I have been from the outset. Previously, we had a rack with 10 containers and this one has 25 drawers. That means we now have many more storage options, but have also greatly reduced the number of forklift movements. When we had our own rack, we had to take the containers out each time using a forklift. Now we do everything with the vacuum lifter on the rack and no longer need the forklift. It’s much more efficient.”
conscious choice
It was a conscious choice to opt for the ‘Compact’ model, Akkerman explains: “The price was better and, in principle, with 25 drawers we have plenty of capacity, including scope for the future. In the construction sector we mainly use large sheets, in particular with qualities S355 and S235. We also work with steel only, so not with stainless steel or aluminium. A compact storage rack like this is therefore ideal. The high load-carrying capacity of each drawer means we can place complete packs inside.”
“We are working more efficiently than before, are saving space and no longer need the forklift for sheet metal,” says Akkerman, summing up the benefits of the sheet metal storage rack. “Only our long materials are now kept on a traditional rack. So, yes, a long materials storage rack is certainly on our wishlist for the future.”