Based on the height of an adult (average 1.70 m), a shelf can be divided into vertical zones. The lowest shelf area is called the bending zone. It extends to an average height of 60–80 cm.

Slow-moving inventory is often stored in the bending zone. However, the expected turnover is not the only factor determining where inventory is placed. The storage zone near the floor is also suitable for heavy and large-volume inventory.

Bending zone from an ergonomic perspective

For ergonomic reasons, inventory with a high turnover rate should not be stored in the bending zone, as the order picker has to exert additional physical effort if, for example, they have to bend down to reach the item to be picked. This extra effort is not only tiring for the person, but also costs additional time during the picking process.

The next higher shelf area is called the reach zone. For more information, see Rack zones – Reach zone.

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