Case Study: Temporary Warehouse

Dockzilla engineered a monolithic building extension that enabled forklifts to travel between the “temp-docks” and the customer’s permanent warehouse.  The engineering team collaborated with the customer’s general contractor to deliver an elevated, dock height structure that addressed property nuances and other requirements, such as:  

• Building Style – elevated workspace or ground-mounted
• Loading Operations – square footage, # of dock positions & leveler options
• Duration – to determine permitting, potential hard-wiring, sprinkler needs, etc.
• Site challenges – drainage & utilities placement, trailer turning paths & parking
• Refrigerated Warehouse – to determine insulation, coolers, compressors, and power 
• Personnel – onsite office, reception, rest rooms, or other employee needs

PREP:  DZ engineers surveyed the customer’s site and included details to ensure material handling efficiency and forklift operator safety. They incorporated a slight incline into one of the platform sections to accommodate a discrepancy in the property’s existing grade, and they integrated a steel transition plate to bridge gaps between the permanent and temporary facilities.  Dockzilla’s design also connected two sections of the warehouse that were previously segregated from each other, which streamlined forklift traffic patterns.

DESIGN:  The customized warehouse configuration utilized 37 self-supported, steel platform sections that kitted together to form an elevated foundation.  Cross-bracing and adjustable base plate footing supported the platform to handle daily loading dynamics such as forklift and trailer impact.  The refrigerated warehouse structure featured 10 externally-mounted loading dock levelers to ensure thermal integrity of the building. 

PROJECT MANAGEMENT:  DZ’s project management team provided oversight of the project milestones and worked at the customer’s site throughout the installation to supervise and inspect deliveries – from arrival of the platform sections to the build-out of the refrigerated warehouse structure.  

“Dockzilla leverages its loading dock experience to take the guesswork out of standing up modular warehouse and distribution centers.  Our structures arrive onsite as pre-engineered, pre-fabricated sections that easily kit together to deliver loading dock facilities – at a fraction of the time and cost as stick-built construction.”

– Nick Haugen, Dockzilla Project Manager