Maximise Space with Dexion Ultima Longspan High-Density Shelving
For New Zealand businesses managing inventory in tight urban centres or expanding regional hubs, the logic of storage has shifted from simple racking to complex space optimisation. The objective is to increase throughput without the capital expenditure associated with building extensions. Achieving this requires a transition toward high density storage solutions that prioritise cubic capacity over traditional, aisle-heavy layouts.
Defining High-Density Storage
At its core, high-density storage is about condensing the storage footprint by minimising or consolidating access aisles. This is typically achieved through mobile tracks or compactor systems that allow warehouse shelving units to move closer together, opening a single aisle only when required.
Whether implemented in a distribution centre, a commercial office, or a municipal library, these systems convert dead aisle space into active storage volume. By integrating a robust shelving system into a mobile base, facilities can store significantly more inventory per square metre than with static alternatives.
Strategic Advantages for New Zealand Operations
Implementing high-density industrial storage offers several measurable benefits for local supply chains, allowing businesses to navigate the specific logistical constraints of the New Zealand market.
Maximum Volumetric Efficiency
Condensing storage allows for a significant reduction in floor area requirements. This is critical in urban centres where industrial land is at a price point that demands maximum efficiency. By reclaiming space previously lost to redundant aisles, a facility can effectively increase its SKU count without a physical expansion.
Reduction in Facility Overheads
Lowering the total footprint directly impacts the bottom line by reducing overheads related to lighting, heating, and facility maintenance. A more compact storage area is easier to manage and requires less energy to keep operational, which is a key factor in long-term financial planning.
Adaptive System Configuration
Modern shelving is inherently flexible. The modular nature of these systems allows for height and width adjustments to suit varying SKU profiles. As inventory requirements change, the longspan shelving system can be reconfigured to maintain optimal density without the need for entirely new infrastructure.
Precision Inventory Management
High-density systems facilitate a high level of organisation, ensuring that stock is accessible and inventory audits remain accurate. By centralising inventory, businesses can streamline their picking paths and improve overall workflow control, reducing the time spent on manual stock retrieval.
Structural Integrity and Asset Protection
These systems provide a stable environment for heavy loads. Engineered for durability, they can be configured with specific locking mechanisms to protect high-value assets. This level of security is essential for facilities handling sensitive or high-cost inventory.
Reduced Environmental Impact
Efficient space use supports a lower carbon footprint by reducing the necessity for new construction and energy-intensive climate control in oversized warehouses. Utilising high density storage solutions aligns with broader sustainability goals by making the most of existing resources.
Engineering Excellence: Dexion Ultima Longspan
To support the weight and movement inherent in high-density environments, the shelving must be engineered for structural integrity. The Dexion Ultima Longspan series is designed specifically for these high-capacity applications.
The system utilises a clip-together assembly concept that allows for rapid installation or reconfiguration without complex tooling. A flat-fronted step beam ensures that labelling remains visible and secure, which is vital for high-speed picking. With frames braced for long-term durability and 50mm adjustment increments, Dexion Ultima Longspan shelving provides the precision needed for a truly bespoke storage layout.
Dexion Ultima Longspan 2
The Dexion Ultima Longspan 2 takes this engineering further, featuring welded beam connectors that offer the stability required for multi-tier or high-rise configurations. A significant advantage for facility managers is the clip-less shelf design; shelves sit directly on side rails, allowing for single-person installation and removal, which reduces maintenance labour costs.
- Load Parameters: Individual shelves support up to 970kg (UDL), while a complete Dexion Ultima Longspan 2 shelving bay can accommodate up to 3,950kg (UDL).
- Infill Versatility: Options include steel, timber, or mesh, allowing the system to be tailored to specific hygiene or fire-safety requirements.
- Environmental Certification: When configured with steel shelf infills, the system is GECA Certified, aligning with the sustainability goals of many New Zealand enterprises.
Ultima Longspan 2 – Rear Fit
For environments requiring a high-quality finish, such as retail showrooms or high-end commercial archives, the Rear Fit variant provides a sleek profile. By using a unique connection position, the front face of the shelving remains clean and free of visible holes. This design is particularly effective when units must be placed flush against walls, as the back beams can still be adjusted without moving the entire frame.
Sector-Specific Applications
The versatility of Ultima Longspan shelving allows it to function effectively across various industries. From retail stockrooms needing hanging rails for garments to food and beverage providers requiring mesh shelves for airflow, the system adapts to the cargo.
In New Zealand, we see longspan shelving being utilised in museums for the safe storage of heritage items and in offices for high-volume document archiving. The addition of accessories—such as dividers, bins, and shelf supports—transforms a standard longspan shelving system into a highly specialised solution for both commercial and industrial storage.
Conclusion
The Dexion Ultima Longspan series provides a technical foundation for businesses looking to scale their operations within their existing physical limits. Its balance of high load capacity and modular flexibility ensures that as your inventory evolves, your storage infrastructure can adapt accordingly.
Contact Dexion to get a one-to-one consultation today about your facility requirements and bespoke storage needs.
