Just with any business, there are slow times, and there are busy times. The material handling business is no exception to the rule. However, our busy times are usually the same as any other retailer or e-commerce business. So how do you accurately prepare for your busy time, or as we like to call it, peak rental season. For us, this is usually during major shopping holidays such as Thanksgiving, Black Friday, Christmas, and even Valentine’s Day. Below are some pointers we like to give customers when they ask questions on how to prepare for their peak season sales, and also some general knowledge items to keep in mind.
Find Your Pattern
First, finding your business pattern is important. If you notice that over the last two years orders peaked during a certain week, or, during a particular month more employees had to work overtime to keep up with demand, these are good indicators to look for. By identifying your peak patterns you’ll be able to figure out when extra material handling equipment in your facility will be helpful.
Plan For What You’ll Need
Once you figure out your peak pattern, you can begin to plan for what you’ll need to order. Look back at the bulk of the orders that came through last year. What equipment was used more than others? What equipment were you lacking? Use this to base your needs off of for the upcoming peak season.
Additionally, look at what equipment can be used to help with the influx of orders. There could be a different type of equipment you’ve never used before, but could significantly help your company perform more effectively during this busy time. Whether it be a different type of lift truck, pallet jack, or lifting table, it’s important to research what type of equipment is best for your company.
Order Early
The key to getting your peak season material handling equipment is to order early. Many other businesses will be in the same boat as you when it comes to needing extra equipment during this busy time. Once you know what equipment you need, call and reserve it. Some companies reserve their equipment four months in advance to ensure it will be to their facility when they need it. It is never too early to reserve your equipment.
Also, it’s important to order early because there might be lead times on certain items of equipment if you are looking for something specific. The earlier you reserve your rental the better.
If you have any questions about what equipment would be best for your facility please give Mid Atlantic a call and we will be happy to do an on-site application survey to help you figure out what you need. Remember, it’s important to find your pattern so you’ll know what equipment you need, plan ahead, and order early.