When it comes to warehouse operations, cleaning might not be the first thing that springs to mind for cost optimisation. But the numbers tell a compelling story that every Operations Manager should hear.
Picture this: A standard 5,000m² warehouse requires regular cleaning to maintain safety standards and operational efficiency. Using traditional manual methods, a single cleaning session costs around £246.52 in labour alone. At first glance, this might not seem that significant – until you do the maths.
The Power of Hako
Let’s break down a game-changing alternative: the Hako Sweepmaster B980R industrial sweeper. At £352.47 per month*, this powered cleaning machine might initially appear more expensive. But here’s where the mathematics gets interesting:
Manual Cleaning:
- Coverage rate: 232m² per hour
- Time to clean 5,000m²: Approximately 21.5 hours
- Cost per cleaning session: £246.52
Hako Sweepmaster B980R:
- Coverage rate: 4,200m² per hour
- Time to clean 5,000m²: Just over 1 hour
- Monthly cost: £352.47 (equivalent to 1.4 manual cleaning sessions)
The Real-World Impact
The efficiency gap is striking – the B980R operates at nearly 20 times the speed of manual cleaning methods. For facilities that require multiple cleaning sessions per month (as most do), the cost savings become immediately apparent. If your warehouse needs cleaning more than twice monthly, you’re already spending more on manual labour than you would on this powered solution.
Beyond the Numbers
Whilst the financial benefits are compelling, the advantages extend far beyond pure economics:
- Consistency in Quality: The machine delivers professional-grade results every time, eliminating the variability inherent in manual cleaning methods.
- Predictable Cost Structure Our 5-year contract hire plan transforms variable cleaning expenses into a fixed monthly investment, making budgeting more straightforward and predictable.
- Reduced Physical Strain By using a powered machine for this labour-intensive task, you eliminate the risk of staff fatigue and related health and safety concerns.
The Bottom Line
In today’s competitive business environment, efficiency isn’t just about cutting costs – it’s about smart allocation of resources. The shift from manual to powered cleaning represents more than a simple upgrade; it’s a strategic investment in operational excellence.
For Warehouse Managers looking to optimise their operations, the question isn’t whether to mechanise cleaning processes, but rather: how much are you losing by not doing so?
Ready to transform your warehouse cleaning operations? A demonstration at your facility can show you exactly how these numbers translate to your specific context. The future of warehouse cleaning is here – and it’s powered, efficient, and cost-effective.
Call Forkway on 0844 854 8899 to book a FREE on-site demonstration.
*Cost based on a 5-year contract hire.