The Insider's Guide to Optimizing Your Industrial Yard Space

As an experienced industrial real estate broker serving the Orange County market for decades, we've seen the transformative impact that well-designed and utilized industrial yard space can have on a property's overall value and functionality.

While the indoor square footage of an industrial building is often the primary focus, the outdoor yard space is an equally critical component that deserves careful consideration. In this guide, we'll explore the key features and strategic uses of industrial yard space to help you maximize this valuable asset.

Understanding Industrial Yard Space

Industrial yard space typically refers to the open, outdoor area surrounding an industrial building. This space can serve a variety of purposes, from trailer parking and equipment storage to material staging and even employee recreation areas. The size and layout of the yard are largely dictated by the property's zoning designation and the specific needs of the tenant or owner.

In Orange County, we've observed yard sizes ranging from as little as 10,000 square feet up to several acres, depending on the location and building size. Proper utilization of this outdoor space can make a significant difference in a property's overall operational efficiency and profitability.

Key Features of Effective Industrial Yard Space

Paved Surface

One of the most important features of an industrial yard is a well-maintained, paved surface. This allows for easy maneuvering of heavy equipment, forklifts, and tractor-trailers, as well as providing a durable foundation for outdoor storage. Asphalt or concrete are the most common paving materials used in Orange County, with each offering its own advantages.

Perimeter Fencing

Securing the yard with perimeter fencing is crucial for industrial properties. This not only deters theft and unauthorized access but also provides a clear boundary for the property. Chain-link, wrought iron, or even decorative fencing can be used, depending on the desired level of security and aesthetic appeal.

Lighting

Adequate lighting within the yard is essential for both safety and security. Strategically placed light poles or wall-mounted fixtures can illuminate the entire area, allowing for 24/7 operations and deterring potential criminal activity.

Drainage System

Proper drainage is a must-have for industrial yards to prevent pooling of water and potential flooding during heavy rains. Catch basins, trench drains, and sloped paving all contribute to an effective drainage system that keeps the yard dry and usable year-round.

Maximizing the Utility of Industrial Yard Space

Once the core infrastructure is in place, the true value of the industrial yard space comes from how it is utilized. Here are some of the most common and effective uses we've observed in Orange County:

Trailer Parking

One of the primary functions of an industrial yard is providing ample parking for semi-trailers, box trucks, and other large commercial vehicles. This allows tenants to stage their fleet on-site, reducing the need for off-site storage and improving logistical efficiency.

For example, a 50,000 square foot yard could potentially accommodate 20-25 trailer parking spaces, depending on the layout and maneuvering room required. This translates to significant cost savings compared to renting offsite storage for those assets.

Equipment and Material Storage

Industrial yards also serve as valuable outdoor storage areas for equipment, raw materials, finished goods, and other assets. Paved surfaces and perimeter fencing provide a secure environment for these items, keeping them accessible yet protected from the elements.

Let's consider a hypothetical scenario: A manufacturing company in Anaheim requires 15,000 square feet of yard space to store $2 million worth of steel coils, spare parts, and finished product. Providing this storage on-site saves them from having to rent a separate warehouse, which could cost an additional $10,000 to $15,000 per month in Orange County.

Employee and Customer Amenities

Surprisingly, some industrial properties also incorporate employee and customer amenities into their yard space. This could include features like picnic tables, shade structures, or even small recreational areas. These types of amenities can enhance the overall experience and appeal of the property, aiding in tenant recruitment and retention.

Conclusion

In our experience, the industrial yard space surrounding a property is often an overlooked yet highly valuable asset. By understanding the key features and strategic uses we've outlined, you can optimize this outdoor area to boost your property's functionality, efficiency, and ultimately, its bottom line.

At minimum, we recommend immediately reviewing your current yard space utilization and identifying any opportunities for improvement. Give us a call if you'd like to discuss how to transform your industrial yard into a true competitive advantage. There's more to come on this topic, so stay tuned!