Your tool crib plays a key role in keeping your operation running. It’s where employees get the parts and supplies they need to do their jobs. But over time, even a well-run crib can become cluttered or inefficient. At Martin Supply, we help manufacturers and maintenance teams get control of their tool crib setup so they can work both faster and smarter. Here are three signs it may be time to take a closer look at how your crib is set up:

No. 1: Your Team Spends Too Much Time Searching for Items

If your employees are walking back and forth looking for tools or supplies, that’s lost time you’re paying for. Even worse, they might end up grabbing the wrong item just to keep moving. This often happens when items aren’t labeled or stored in a clear way, or when inventory is stored in multiple places. This is especially an issue when there’s no easy way to track usage or see what’s in stock. A disorganized crib may not seem like a big deal at first, but over time, those small delays add up and slow down your entire operation.

Solution: A storeroom reset, better labeling, or using vending machines or storage lockers can help streamline access and save hours each week.

No. 2: You’re Running Out or Overstocking Frequently

If you’re constantly running out of critical items or buying more than you need, it’s a sign your inventory system isn’t working. Common problems include having no clear reorder points, an outdated tracking system, or plain old human error. Running out of a key part can obviously cause downtime. On the other hand, overstocking ties up cash and wastes storage space.

Solution: Setting up Min/Max levels, implementing usage tracking software, and using vendor-managed inventory (VMI) can all help you keep the right amount of stock on hand without the guesswork.

No. 3: Your Crib Isn’t Supporting Productivity Goals

Today’s plants need to run lean and fast. If your tool crib hasn’t kept up with your production needs, it might be holding you back. When the Martin Supply team evaluates customer facilities, they often find that supplies are not located close to where the work is being done. In others, they find that leadership may have a lack of visibility into who’s using what. When your team has to leave the work area just to get basic supplies, or when managers can’t see usage data, it creates inefficiencies across the board.

Solution: Point-of-use cabinets, locked vending machines, and usage reports can help you reduce waste, improve accountability, and keep workers focused on their jobs.

How Martin Can Help

If any of these signs sound familiar, it may be time to take a fresh look at your tool crib setup. Let Martin Supply help you find a smarter way to store, track, and manage your supplies. Whether you need to reorganize your stockroom, automate inventory tracking, or install vending solutions, we can help you build a system that supports your goals. We don’t just sell supplies. We help you operate better.

Contact your Martin Sales Rep or call 800.828.8116 to learn more.