How to Lay Out Spare Parts in BAC High Density Drawer Storage Cabinets

2 February 2026 BAC Systems Share this:

BAC High Density Drawer Storage Cabinets are widely recognised across Australia as one of the most space-efficient solutions for storing small-to-medium spare parts. Frequently, BAC customers ask for guidance on how best to configure their warehouse or stores area using BAC Drawer Storage systems.

While every facility has its own operational requirements, most installations fall into one of two proven storage strategies: Storage-by-Size or Storage-by-Class. Understanding the strengths of each method will help you maximise space utilisation, improve picking accuracy, and streamline inventory management.

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Storage-by-Size

Storage-by-Size is the most spatially efficient approach to organising spare parts within BAC High Density Drawers. Parts are allocated purely based on their physical dimensions, ensuring each drawer cell is filled as efficiently as possible, with minimal wasted space.

Under this system, parts are not intentionally grouped by function, part number, or application. Similar items are not placed together unless their sizes naturally align. While this may appear counter-intuitive, it is the most effective way to achieve maximum storage density.

Because parts are not visually grouped, this method relies on accurate location indexing. Each part is assigned a unique location code, which becomes the primary means of identification during picking. Modern inventory management and ERP systems integrate seamlessly with BAC Drawer Storage Cabinets, making this method both practical and highly scalable.

Key benefits of Storage-by-Size:

• Maximum space utilisation

• Reduced storage footprint

• Ideal for high-volume, varied spare parts

• Fully compatible with digital inventory systems

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Storage-by-Class

Storage-by-Class organises spare parts according to part number, type, or functional classification. For example, all braking system components may be stored within the same drawer, even if the individual items vary significantly in size.

While this approach is typically less space-efficient than Storage-by-Size, it still outperforms conventional shelving systems by a considerable margin. Its primary advantage lies in ease of identification. Staff can often locate parts by visual recognition without relying exclusively on location codes.

Key benefits of Storage-by-Class:

• Faster manual identification

• Reduced reliance on software for picking

• Logical grouping of related components

• Well-suited to maintenance and workshop environments

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Understanding Location Codes in BAC Drawer Storage Cabinets

BAC High Density Drawer Storage Cabinets are designed around a logical, intuitive layout, making location coding simple and effective. A typical part location consists of four or five dimensions, allowing for precise identification of every storage cell.

These dimensions generally include:

1. Row (where applicable)

2. Cabinet Identifier

3. Drawer or Shelf Number

4. Column

5. Cell Position 

For example, a location code such as 6A3C4 refers to:

• Row 6

• Cabinet A

• Third drawer from the bottom

• Column C

• Fourth cell within that column

While variations exist depending on site requirements, the underlying principle remains the same: BAC cabinets provide a structured, repeatable system that simplifies both storage and retrieval.

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Choosing the Right Strategy

Both storage methods deliver excellent results when implemented correctly. The optimal approach often depends on:

• Number of SKUs

• Variability in part sizes

• Picking frequency

• Level of system automation

• Accountability methods
• The likelihood of out-of-hours picking in 24-hour service centres

Many facilities successfully employ a hybrid strategy, using Storage-by-Size for slow-moving or high-volume items, and Storage-by-Class for frequently accessed components.

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Learn More About BAC High Density Storage Solutions

To learn more about warehousing with BAC High Density Drawer Storage Modules, please contact the BAC Technical Sales Team.
You can also download the BAC Green Catalogue to explore the full range of BAC Drawer Storage solutions and accessories.