PLAN 01
Identify the peak, not just the average
For seasonal storage, list the goods arriving ahead of the busiest trading period and the largest quantity likely to be held at once. For store works, identify the refrigeration capacity being taken offline and the overlap between delivery and stock transfer. These details help avoid a room that is already full at the first delivery.
Separate chilled and frozen requirements and explain how stock will be packed. Pallets, crates and smaller cases produce different space needs. Allow room for access and stock rotation rather than calculating capacity solely from the external dimensions of the room.
PLAN 02
Check the entire stock movement route
Follow the path from delivery vehicle to coldroom and from coldroom to replenishment. Note turning space, thresholds, door clearance and any interaction with customers or other deliveries. A room position that suits unloading may be less practical for frequent staff access during trading.
If stock will move on pallets, confirm the proposed handling equipment, load dimensions and door arrangement. Discuss floor and ramp suitability for those loads. Where racking is more useful, consider case sizes and picking access so the layout matches the replenishment routine.
PLAN 03
Fit the room around the store’s available space
Share a photograph or sketch showing the proposed footprint, door direction and nearby services. Include the space required for refrigeration equipment and maintenance, not just the room itself. Outdoor installations also need ground assessment and a practical approach route.
Uneven ground can sometimes be accommodated with timber packing and support to keep the room level and supported throughout. The right arrangement depends on the site; send ground photographs before assuming extensive base work is needed or that an uneven area is unsuitable.
PLAN 04
Treat a multi-store programme as several site plans
A common room specification can simplify a programme, but it does not make every store identical. Record an address, named contact, access window, power location and preferred dates for each site. Include differences in the unloading area or handling equipment that could affect installation.
For refurbishment work, agree when the hired room will be ready for stock and when the permanent storage will be available again. Power connection and temperature checks need time before loading. Report programme changes early so transport, availability and collection can be reviewed store by store.
FROM REAL INSTALLATIONS
See a multi-room project with pallet access
A sporting-venue project showing bulk-access room options. Store layouts and delivery requirements are assessed separately.
Explore the project examples →BEFORE YOU ENQUIRE
What to include in your project
You do not need every detail settled. Start with what you know and include any questions about the site or layout.
- Store address and named receiving contact for each location
- Peak chilled/frozen stock, pack dimensions and delivery cycle
- Pallet, trolley, door and racking requirements
- Proposed position, ground photographs and power location
- Works programme, stock transfer dates and access windows
COMMON QUESTIONS
Supermarkets coldroom hire: your questions
Can different stores have different installation dates?
Yes, submit the individual requirements and dates for review. Each location needs its own access and power information, and the programme is confirmed with the team.
Does every room need a new concrete base?
Not necessarily. Suitability depends on the existing ground and the proposed installation. VCS can use timber packing and support on suitable uneven sites following assessment.
Can a temporary room cover a seasonal peak?
Include the anticipated stock peak and required hire period in your enquiry. Room configuration and availability can then be checked against the store’s needs.
