Cantilever Racking System Transforms Warehouse Storage for EMH in Valley City, OH
Handling Concepts helped Engineered Material Handling (EMH) in Valley City, Ohio optimize warehouse space by installing a customized cantilever and selective pallet racking system. The solution increased storage capacity, reduced picking time, and improved inventory flow without expanding facility space.
Engineered Material Handling (EMH) Overview
Engineered Material Handling (EMH) in Valley City, OH is a leading manufacturer of overhead cranes and components. As the company experienced continued growth, so did the demands on its inventory and warehousing operations.
“We’re growing rapidly, and space has become a premium,” explained the President of EMH, Jim Kehres. “We needed to optimize our storage to keep up with increased demand and ensure our operations remained efficient.”
The Challenge: Limited Space and Slowed Operations
With a growing inventory of crane components and limited floor space, EMH faced several key operational challenges:
- Inefficient use of warehouse space
- Increased time to pick and retrieve components
- Frequent need to move materials just to access stored items
These inefficiencies began to affect productivity on the floor, slowing down operations and increasing labor demands.
Project Objectives: Maximize Space and Improve Efficiency
EMH set out to:
- Maximize the use of existing floor space
- Increase storage capacity without expanding the facility
- Reduce picking times and improve inventory access
The Solution: Tailored Racking Built Around EMH’s Needs
EMH turned to Handling Concepts, a trusted partner out of Akron, OH with a long-standing relationship and deep understanding of the company’s operations.
Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all product, Handling Concepts conducted an on-site visit to evaluate EMH’s unique storage challenges. After a thorough assessment, they recommended the implementation of a system that combined cantilever racking and selective pallet racking—a solution ideal for storing both long, bulky items such as crane components, as well as pallets and crates.
“They came to our facility, evaluated our problems, and offered solutions,” said the EMH President. “We’ve worked with them in the past and knew they would be there through the entire process.”
Implementation in Action: From Planning to Installation
While the lead time for the cantilever racks was longer than anticipated—due to manufacturing constraints—Handling Concepts provided consistent updates throughout the process.
“They followed up regularly with the manufacturer and kept us in the loop. That allowed us to plan accordingly and implement swiftly once the product arrived.”
The Impact
The implementation of the cantilever rack system had a significant positive impact on EMH’s operations:
✅ Reduced required floor space for storage
✅ Increased overall storage capacity
✅ Streamlined material picking, reducing downtime and manual handling
While no specific cost metrics were provided, the operational efficiencies gained have contributed directly to supporting EMH’s continued growth and customer satisfaction.
Takeaway
This project exemplifies how a tailored solution—combined with strong customer relationships and on-site collaboration—can drive meaningful operational improvements.
“Handling Concepts understood our business, offered the right solution, and stayed with us from start to finish. We’ll continue working with them because they deliver.”
Interested in learning how Handling Concepts can improve your facility’s storage efficiency?
