Selecting the right location for deploying a modular industrial canopy shelter, such as the OPUS structures by McGregor, can greatly impact the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of your material storage operations through the extremely reliable and weatherproof spaces they provide.
These versatile shelters are ideal for storing aggregate materials, recyclables, and other commercial loose materials, offering flexibility, durability, and easy re-deployability. However, the benefits of these modular structures can only be fully realised when they are deployed in a well-chosen location.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the factors to consider when selecting the perfect site for your modular industrial-grade canopy shelter, with a focus on how OPUS can be deployed for aggregate and recyclable material storage in commercial settings.
Read on to discover what factors to consider when deploying your industrial canopies for material storage in the ideal location on your site to unlock their peak performance in use cases such as modular aggregate storage bays, weatherproof holding bays for recyclable materials, and a wide array of other applications.
Main considerations to make when locating your industrial canopy shelters
1. Understanding the material storage needs
Before deciding where to set up your OPUS modular shelter, the first step is understanding the specific needs of your storage materials. Aggregate materials like sand, gravel, and crushed stone, along with recyclable materials like plastics, metals, and paper, all have unique storage requirements. Some key factors to consider include:
Volume of material: The amount of material you plan to store will influence the size of the shelter required, as well as the necessary access for transportation vehicles. Larger volumes may require more space and more accessible entry points.
Moisture sensitivity: Certain aggregates or recyclable materials may require an extra level of protection from moisture or other environmental factors. Understanding how exposure to the elements can affect the integrity of stored materials will help you choose an appropriate location that minimises weather-related risks.
Weight and density: Heavy and dense materials like aggregates require sturdy ground conditions, as well as the ability to accommodate heavy machinery for loading and unloading. Lighter materials may require different handling approaches, including wind protection and containment.
A thorough understanding of your material’s properties is crucial for determining what kind of industrial canopy shelter you need and where it can best be deployed.
2. Site assessment and ground stability
Once you’ve identified the specific requirements of your stored materials, the next step is evaluating the physical conditions of potential deployment sites. A detailed site assessment will help you determine whether the location can adequately support your OPUS shelter, while considering:
Soil type and ground stability: The soil and ground stability are particularly important when dealing with heavy industrial shelters and materials. Loose, sandy, or waterlogged soils may require additional groundwork, which could increase costs and complicate installation. Ideally, a site with compact, stable ground will minimise the need for soil preparation and make it easier to anchor the shelter securely.
Slope and drainage: Even subtle slopes can affect how rainwater flows across your site. Poor drainage can lead to water pooling, which can undermine the stability of your shelter and damage stored materials. Make sure to choose a location with effective drainage to avoid these risks, or plan for additional grading and drainage work if necessary.
Load-bearing capacity: The weight of your stored materials, combined with the structural load of the shelter, requires that the site can handle significant pressure. Assessments may be necessary to ensure that the ground can support both the shelter and any machinery needed for loading and unloading materials.
3. Accessibility for transportation and machinery
The placement of your modular industrial canopy shelter should facilitate easy access for transport vehicles and equipment. This is critical in commercial settings where frequent loading and unloading of materials take place. Key considerations include:
Sufficient space for Vehicle manoeuvring: Ensure the location has enough room for trucks, forklifts, loaders, and other heavy equipment to manoeuvre safely around the shelter. Narrow spaces, tight corners, or obstructions can slow down operations and increase the risk of accidents.
Clear entry and exit points: Plan the layout of your site so that vehicles can enter and exit smoothly without causing traffic congestion or delays. This is especially important in busy commercial operations with multiple deliveries or shipments per day. Choose a structure that offers abundant space and easy vehicular access.
In addition to access to transportation, consider how the shelter will be integrated into your overall workflow. Shelters placed too far from other key areas of the site can lead to inefficiencies, while those that are too close to high-traffic areas may disrupt operations.
Get maximum returns through weatherproof material storage in aggregate, recycling, and a range of other operations with OPUS
Experience how leveraging a high-performance industrial canopy shelter for storing aggregate and recyclable materials can significantly save on handling, transportation, and many other costs while keeping materials in prime condition, free from exposure to the elements.
Don’t hesitate to protect your materials from impending harsh weather. Be proactive to ensure a smooth operation all year around, through adverse climates and changing seasons. Order OPUS now while the stocks are available.