The Challenge: Merging Networks Under Extreme Safety Standards
Following the acquisition of CSK Automotive, O’Reilly Auto Parts faced the critical task of integrating two massive distribution networks. This required constructing new distribution centers (DCs) and remodeling existing ones to meet the company’s unified business model.
The challenge was compounded by two non-negotiable requirements for select DCs:
- High Seismic Activity: Two distribution centers were located in areas with a high probability of significant seismic activity, requiring a storage system engineered for absolute stability and compliance.
- Hazardous Materials: The systems needed to safely store a wide array of auto parts, including hazardous materials such as aerosol products, demanding specialized storage components and engineering.
WPSS was selected by distribution experts Fortna to provide a tough, reliable storage solution that maximized space while guaranteeing safety under extreme conditions.
The WPSS Solution: Custom-Engineered Deluxe Industrial Shelving
WPSS designed and delivered a robust Multilevel Systems solution utilizing the Deluxe Industrial Shelving system. The system was custom-engineered to address both the seismic and hazardous material requirements simultaneously.
Seismic Design for Unrivaled Stability
To meet the high Seismic Design requirements, WPSS engineers implemented several custom structural enhancements:
- Reinforced Posts: A concealed reinforcement channel was added to the lower extremity of the already robust high-rise box posts, providing extra strength.
- Sway Braces: The system required double back and side sway braces to ensure rock-solid stability during seismic activity, minimizing product and structural risk.
High-Density Storage for Hazardous Products
The Deluxe Industrial Shelving provided a flexible platform perfect for High-Density Storage.
- Vertical Space Maximization: The system features vertical shelf adjustability in 1-inch increments, allowing the most efficient use of every foot of Vertical Space.
- Custom Grill Shelves: To safely accommodate aerosol products and other hazardous materials, WPSS designed a unique grill-style shelf. This custom-engineered component ensures proper ventilation, containment, and capacity for a wide range of items.
Results: Seamless Integration and On-Time Delivery
The WPSS partnership with Fortna ensured O’Reilly could meet its goal of rapidly synchronizing a fully integrated and efficient distribution network under strict timelines.
- Rapid Deployment: WPSS met the client’s accelerated time frame, delivering all components on an efficient just-in-time basis to keep the project on schedule.
- Expert Approval: The completed facilities, including the highly-engineered Deluxe Industrial Shelving structures, were quickly approved by inspectors, validating the quality and adherence to strict codes.
- Trusted Partnership: WPSS’s willingness to take on the complexity of designing specialized components for this automotive storage application was key to the project’s success, providing the flexibility and problem-solving focus required by the client.
Ready to work on your next project? Big or small, WPSS has experts ready to assist! We provide layout guidance, spec sheets, and recommend best-practice clearances to ensure an efficient and space saving design. Contact us today for a quote.