WAREHOUSE SPACE & HANDLING
Clear Height
Clear height describes the vertical clearance available inside a building below the relevant overhead obstruction, measured from the finished floor.
CLEAR HEIGHT IN PRACTICE
- Confirm the measurement
- Identify constraints
- Validate usable storage
A WORKED EXAMPLE
36 feet is not 36 feet of stock.
A facility advertises 36 feet of clear height. That does not mean a pallet load can extend to 36 feet. Rack configuration, equipment access, overhead services and required clearances determine the approved storage arrangement. A lower obstruction in one zone can also limit that zone independently.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOUR QUOTE
Make the requirement explicit
Use the same scope and units when comparing providers. Put the agreed responsibility, included work and exception process into the service description.
A LITTLE MORE CONTEXT
Questions about Clear Height
Is clear height the same as roof height?
No. Roof or external building height does not establish the interior clearance available below obstructions.
Does higher clear height guarantee more capacity?
No. Load dimensions, layout, handling equipment and the approved storage design also constrain capacity.
Source & example notes
MHI: storage racks and material handling. Further reading on storage equipment and load characteristics. Confirm actual site dimensions, approved equipment limits and storage design with the responsible parties.
Definitions and worked examples are prepared by 3PL Hub. Numbers are illustrative, not provider rates, operating targets or guarantees.
Last updated: · 3PL Hub
