Logistics warehouse and distribution center
High clear height, docks and floor prepared for heavy-duty operation. Large spans to store and ship out with fast throughput.
Built for the operation
The warehouse starts with the flow of goods
In a logistics warehouse, the structure works for the operation: the height defines how many storage levels fit, the column position defines the aisles, and the docks define the pace of shipping.
That's why the design starts with the storage layout and the in-and-out flow. The structure comes after, designed around that.
What weighs on the design
Where the structure makes a difference in logistics
Clear height and storage levels
The usable height is planned together with the pallet racking and the fire suppression system.
Span and aisles
The columns are placed into the aisle layout so they don't steal a pallet position.
Docks
The dock facade is already designed with the door openings and loads accounted for in the calculation.
Floor and bases
The structure is coordinated with the industrial floor and the foundations, which are concrete.
Roof
Large roof areas require care with wind, drainage, gutters and flashing.
Growth in modules
The warehouse can start with one module and grow in stages, if the design plans for it.
Logistics or distribution
What's the difference?
Both are used to store and move goods. A logistics warehouse tends to store for longer. A distribution center receives, sorts and ships out with fast turnover, so it tends to have more docks.
For the structure, what changes is the clear height, the span between columns and the number of openings. The preliminary study defines this based on your operation.
How it works
How your project moves forward
One person follows every stage. You know what's happening and when.
- 01
Briefing
We understand the operation, the site and the schedule.
- 02
Preliminary study
Feasibility, structural system and investment range.
- 03
Engineering
Structural design, detailing and coordination.
- 04
Fabrication
Cutting, welding and painting at our own plant, with inspection.
- 05
Logistics
Numbered pieces ship out in the order they'll be erected.
- 06
Erection
Our own crew, with a lifting and safety plan.
- 07
Handover
Project reviewed with you and complete documentation.
Steel or concrete
Steel or concrete? It depends on the project.
There's no single right material for everything. There's the right one for your span, your soil and your schedule.
Up to about 25 meters of span, precast tends to compete well. For larger spans, weak soil, or when the project will grow, steel tends to win. If your case is the other way around, we'll tell you. See the full comparison.
| Criterion | Metal structure | Precast concrete |
|---|---|---|
| Large spans | Excellent | Depends |
| Industrialization | High | Medium |
| Self weight | Lower | Higher |
| Erection speed | High | Depends |
| Future expansion | Simple | More difficult |
| Maintenance | Requires corrosion protection | Lower |
Before you close a deal
Before comparing price, compare what's included
A price per square meter is misleading. Check whether the proposal includes:
- Structural design and ART
- Fabrication and painting or galvanizing
- Transport to the job site
- Erection with equipment
- Who does the foundation
- Gutters, flashing and closures
- Schedule with dates
Our proposal lists every item separately. It's easy to compare. How to compare proposals, item by item
FAQ
Questions about logistics warehouses
What clear height do I need for pallet racking?
It depends on the height of the racking, the fire suppression system and the operation. We define it in the preliminary study, with your storage layout.
How much does a logistics warehouse cost?
It depends on the span, the height, the roof and the site. A price per square meter without a design is a guess. Send what you have and we'll come back with an investment range and scope. See what changes the cost.
Can it be built in stages?
Yes. The design can plan for the following modules, and each stage goes into operation as it's completed.
How long until the project is ready?
The schedule comes from the preliminary study, with a date for each stage. Fabricating while the foundation is being built shortens the timeline a lot.
Do you do the foundation?
Yes, or we coordinate with your builder. That's written into the proposal.
See also
Other pages that help you decide
Next step
Have a logistics warehouse to get off the ground? Our engineering team will evaluate it.
Send us the project details and the drawings. You'll get feasibility, scope and what's still to define.