Did you know that warehouses are becoming larger and more common across the United States? The number of private warehousing establishments in America grew from 15,203 in 2008 to 18,182 in 2018, according the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. When it comes to size, warehouses, on average, used to be around 65,000 square feet in 2000. The average size in 2017 grew to 181,370 square feet, according to data from a Westernacher Consulting Report.
One of the reasons for this tremendous growth in size and popularity is that the use of warehouses has expanded from being just storage space to offering many alternative uses. Here are some of the ways in which warehouses are being used these days.
1. Manufacturing
One of the reasons why many companies are taking warehouses for lease in Houston is manufacturing, according to experts at Samuel L. Bryant Investments. For manufacturing, wide open and large spaces are needed. Manufacturing units generally have machines that are extremely large. And warehouses are perfect for such sizes. Plus, such spaces provide plenty of flexibility with the design. So, if a manufacturing unit requires some modification for ventilation, or some space is needed for a workers’ lounge, these can be easily taken care of. In addition, when the goods have been manufactured, they can be easily stored in the same place. This reduces the lead time.
2. Office Space
Another reason why the demand for warehouse for rent is increasing across America, including in Houston, is that they make for great office spaces too. Some advantages of using such a space for your offices are:
– They are much more affordable than traditional office spaces. This makes them particularly attractive for start-ups. Apart from a lower initial investment, the maintenance cost is also low. This is because such spaces are created to be extremely durable. Whether it is strong winds or rainstorms, they can weather it all. In fact, they are so sturdy that they have been used as evacuation centers during natural disasters.
– Another reason to use them as office space is that they are highly spacious. Imagine a huge, wide open space, which you can design any way you like to create an amazing workspace. When you get a warehouse office, you do not have to worry about whether you have enough space for your employees and equipment. The ceilings are also very high. That is why many warehouses get converted into 2 or 3 floors.
3. Storage
Lastly, of course, is the traditional use for warehouses. The first warehouses are believed to have emerged for storing food grains, thousands of years ago. These grains were sold during periods of famine. Ever since then, these spaces have been integral for businesses. They allow manufacturers to produce large quantities of products, more than they can sell immediately. This allows them to expand. Warehouses also play an important role in the stabilization of price. The storage of goods ensures that there is no decline in price when supply is high or a rise in price during the off season. Even loans can be obtained on the value of goods stored in a warehouse.
With so many uses, there is no doubt that there will continue to be strong demand for warehouse spaces for lease in most major American cities, including Houston.