Peninsula BM Automotive Storage Solutions

Peninsula BM is Australia’s largest BMW-only automotive dismantler and new parts supplier, passionately owned and operated by father and son team – Dean How and Daniel How.

Located in Mornington, Victoria, the business provides a comprehensive range of BMW parts throughout Australia and across the globe, including genuine, OEM, aftermarket new, secondhand, and fully reconditioned parts. After 30 years of operation, Peninsula BM underwent a complete overhaul of its site.  

The Solution

The storage solution was developed to suit the newly developed site and the specific storage needs of Peninsula BM, including their inventory, capacity requirements and workflow. Working closely with directors Dean and Daniel, a comprehensive plan was developed, which included:

• A racking-based mezzanine for parts storage
• A custom cantilever system for vehicle storage
• Modifications and safety signage for pallet racking

Racking-based Mezzanine

To maximise the warehouse height and optimise storage for a diverse range of car parts, a two-tiered structural mezzanine floor was proposed.

• Sustainability Focus: Secondhand racking was repurposed and modified to suit both levels of the mezzanine, reinforcing Peninsula BM’s commitment to the circular economy while also meeting their timings and budget.
• Operational Efficiency: The racking-through system was designed to maximise accessibility and operational efficiency.
• Customisability: The racking is completely customisable, allowing Peninsula BM to continue to tailor shelf heights for parts ranging from small switches to larger items such as vehicle bonnets.
• On-site Modifications: Uprights, floor plates, and staircase components were modified on-site to fit the available space.
• Added Features: Custom shelf dividers were added retrospectively to safely store items like windscreens.
• Compliance: The mezzanine was designed to comply with Australian Safety Standards.

Custom Cantilever System

To maximise their outdoor storage space, a bespoke cantilever racking system was designed for the storage of vehicles. The orientation of the cantilever arms allows more cars to be stored within a smaller footprint, while maintaining ease of access for forklifts.

• • Tailored Design: Cantilever arm length, loading design, and orientation were tailored to suit the vehicle size and allow for greater capacity.
  • Installation Precision: Installed on a sloped concrete surface, specialised steel packers were used to level the system.
  • Durability: A galvanised finish was applied to ensure longevity in outdoor conditions.

Pallet Racking Modifications & Safety

• Racking modifications were conducted to suit Peninsula BM’s evolving operational needs and ensure safety and compliance.
• Safety signage was installed to enhance on-site safety protocols.

Results & Operational Improvements

Optimised Storage Utilisation: Peninsula BM significantly increased its storage capacity, efficiently accommodating both small parts and full vehicles.

• Supporting the Circular Economy: Repurposing secondhand racking diverted materials from landfill and extended the life of durable steel products.
• Cost-Effective Solution: Integrating secondhand racking into the mezzanine design provided a budget-friendly yet robust solution.
• Improved Capacity & Longevity: The custom engineered cantilever system offers Peninsula BM a secure structure for the storage and access of vehicles. The galvanised finish ensures durability in outdoor environments.

The storage solution provided by Safer Storage Systems enabled Peninsula BM to effectively manage their diverse inventory while staying within budget and meeting compliance requirements. A full-time SSS project manager oversaw the installation, ensuring seamless execution, attention to detail, and adherence to safety standards.