Running an efficient warehouse isn’t just about space and staff — it’s about having the right tools and supplies to keep everything moving safely, quickly, and cost-effectively. If you’re new to warehouse operations, it can feel overwhelming to decide which products are truly essential and which are “nice-to-have.”
To help, here’s a beginner’s guide that highlights the must-have warehouse supplies — with examples from TOTALPACK®, a trusted name in packaging and material handling.
1. Pallet Jacks: The Foundation of Movement
Every warehouse, big or small, needs a reliable way to move pallets. A pallet jack is often the first piece of equipment you’ll purchase.
- LiftMax by TOTALPACK® Pallet Jack (27” x 48” | 5,500 lb. Capacity): Built with rugged steel construction and a tough yellow powder finish, it’s designed for heavy-duty operations while remaining easy to maneuver. For beginners, this means dependable performance without complicated maintenance.
Tip: Choose a pallet jack that matches your average pallet size and weight capacity. Overbuying can waste money, while underbuying risks safety issues.
2. Stretch Film: Securing Loads the Smart Way
Once pallets are loaded, they need to stay stable during transport. Stretch film is the go-to solution for securing goods tightly and preventing damage.
- Yellow Stretch Film – High-Visibility Pallet Wrap by TOTALPACK®: Its bright color not only secures loads but also improves visibility in busy warehouse environments, reducing accidents.
Tip: For high-volume operations, consider stretch film that works with automatic or semi-automatic stretch wrappers. It saves time and reduces fatigue compared to manual wrapping.
3. Packing Tape: Small but Mighty
It’s easy to underestimate the role of packing tape, but it’s critical for sealing cartons securely. Weak tape can lead to costly damage claims.
- TOTALPACK® Heavy-Duty Packing Tape: Provides excellent adhesion for a wide range of box materials, ensuring packages stay sealed from warehouse to final delivery.
- TOTALPACK® Tape Dispenser: Pair with your tape for speed and efficiency.
Tip: Always match your tape type to your carton weight. Light cartons can use general-purpose tape, while heavier loads demand reinforced or heavy-duty tape.
4. Safety and Visibility Gear
Warehouse safety is non-negotiable. Supplies like high-visibility wraps, floor tape, and signage help keep workers safe.
- High-Visibility Films by TOTALPACK®: Secure loads and make pallets stand out in dimly lit storage spaces, lowering the risk of accidents.
- Floor marking tape & safety signage: Guide traffic flow and designate hazards and zones.
- Basic PPE: Gloves, safety glasses, and vests for everyday protection.
Tip: Always factor in safety supplies when budgeting — they often cost less than a single workplace accident.
5. Wrapping Machines and Automation
As operations grow, manual wrapping and taping become less efficient. That’s when automation steps in.
- TOTALPACK® Stretch Wrapping Machines: Deliver consistent, tight wraps around pallets, improving throughput and reducing material waste.
Tip: Start small but think big — choose supplies and equipment from brands that also offer scalable solutions as your warehouse expands.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right warehouse supplies doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with the essentials: pallet jacks, stretch film, packing tape, and safety gear. As your warehouse grows, explore automation to keep efficiency high.
With products like the LiftMax Pallet Jack, High-Visibility Stretch Film, and Heavy-Duty Packing Tape, TOTALPACK® offers dependable, beginner-friendly solutions that make warehouse operations safer, faster, and more cost-effective.