Stellage

Stellage is a German noun used in logistics, manufacturing, and related fields to denote the arrangement or layout of storage positions, equipment, or workstations. The word stems from stellen (to place) and Lage (location). In English-language industrial contexts, stellage is sometimes used to describe a storage or equipment layout, particularly within German- or European-origin documentation.

In warehousing and inventory management, stellage refers to the configuration of racking systems, shelves, and pallet locations. It encompasses fixed structures such as pallet racking and cantilever racks, as well as modular or mobile solutions like movable shelving or shuttle racks. Effective stellage design seeks to maximize space utilization, ensure safe stack heights, facilitate picking and replenishment, and comply with load ratings and forklift clearances.

In production and assembly planning, stellage describes the layout of workstations, tools, and transport paths along a line to improve material flow and reduce handling. The approach combines elements of facility layout, line design, and storage strategy to support lean or just-in-time operations.

Terminology: Stellage is primarily used in German-language settings, with English-language texts often adopting the term in technical contexts or translating it as storage layout or rack layout. It is closely related to concepts such as warehouse layout, shelving, and racking systems.