Pallet racking systems are necessary to ensure that warehouses remain efficient and organized. Pallet racking systems allow you to optimize your space, provide easy access to contents and streamline inventory handling. Whether it’s a large distribution warehouse or just a subset of storage space, pallet racking systems will help you run like clockwork.
Designed to withstand heavy loads, they allow you to load pallets in an organised and safe manner. With multiple options such as selective, drive-in and push-back racking, you can customise your facility to suit your individual needs. The right pallet racking system can increase efficiency, reduce downtime and save you money by maximising the use of your warehouse space.
Key features and advantages of each pallet racking system
Maximize your warehouse space with the perfect industrial racking system! A short overview of key features and advantages for each is given below:
- Selective racking: Facilitates instant access to all pallets, most appropriate for warehouses with a variety of products. Enhances efficiency and flexibility.
- Drive-in/drive-thru racking: Best for high-density uses. Maximize space by reducing aisles, most appropriate for storing associated products.
- Pallet flow racking: Gravity-driven, optimal for FIFO inventory control. Offers efficiency and reduces handling time.
- Push back racking: Accommodates more than one pallet per lane. Offers high storage space and easy product access.
Types of industrial pallet racking systems
Pallet racking is the ideal solution for warehouses with a large number of references. They offer direct access to each pallet without the need to move others, as each position allows for one pallet. The format allows stock control with precise accuracy.
Selective pallet racking
Selective pallet racking is the most common and versatile type of warehouse storage. Ideal for warehouse managers looking for simple and efficient pallet storage systems, these racks provide direct access to all pallets.
This system utilizes space and provides easy access to products, making it perfect for fast moving goods. It is extremely flexible, adjustable and can be installed to suit any warehouse size or shape. And with ease of installation and affordability, selective pallet racking is a smart business investment for anyone looking to streamline their storage requirements.
Industrial pallet racking provides a dedicated space for each pallet, eliminating congestion and wasted space. With pallet racking, warehouses can take significant steps towards efficiency – from maximizing storage capacity and efficient order picking to improved inventory control and security.
Drive-in pallet racking
Drive-in pallet racking is a high-density storage system that makes optimum use of space and vertical height in a warehouse. By significantly reducing the number of forklift aisles required, the system allows a greater number of goods to be stored in a smaller area.
One of the key benefits of drive-in pallet racking is that it can help optimize storage capacity, making it a suitable option for warehouses that need to increase efficiency without having to physically expand. The system is particularly beneficial for organizations dealing with high volumes of homogeneous products as it supports a first-in, last-out (FILO) inventory management system.
In addition, the reduction in aisle space not only increases storage density, but also results in a cleaner layout, making it easier to pick stock and reducing the time spent picking from the shelf. As a result, warehouses can achieve greater operational efficiency, lower storage costs and a faster return on investment.
Pallet flow racking
Pallet flow racking is an efficient, high-density storage solution that significantly enhances warehouse capacity by utilizing sloped channels with rollers, allowing palletized loads to move by gravity to the retrieval end.
This system eliminates the need for intermediate aisles, maximizing surface area and enabling seamless implementation of the FIFO (first in, first out) inventory management strategy. As a result, it ensures excellent product turnover and streamlined inventory control. By having all SKUs accessible in a single working aisle, pallet flow racking reduces forklift maneuvering time, thereby speeding up pallet removal and saving time.
The separation of loading and unloading aisles minimizes interference, allowing forklifts to operate without interruptions. Although each channel is designated for a single SKU, the flexibility to vary SKUs between channels exists. Additionally, in temperature-controlled environments, the system optimizes energy consumption by reducing the volume required for cooling. Designed with safety and reliability in mind, the components of pallet flow racking ensure a risk-free operation for both operators and goods.
Push back racking
Push-back racking is a new storage system that allows pallets to be stacked 2 to 6 units deep on either side of an aisle, providing much greater storage density than traditional storage methods.
These racks offer the density benefits of drive-in racking combined with the selectivity of single position racking. Wheeled trolleys are located in the picking aisles at each level. A pallet is placed on the top trolley and as each new pallet is added, the forklift truck pushes the previous pallet back to make room for the new one. This continues until all the trolleys are full and the last pallet is placed straight on the rails. During unloading, the rear pallets roll forward by themselves and the process is highly efficient.
There are two basic types of push-back racking: cart (or shuttle) and roller systems. In the former, each pallet is placed on a rolling shuttle that travels on rails. The second uses fixed, slightly inclined beds. Both systems allow maximum storage and inventory management in warehouses or distribution facilities.
The operating principle of push-back racking is a series of trolleys on inclined rails. Forklift trucks place pallets on the top cart and each time a pallet is loaded, the front pallet is pushed back to make room for the next pallet. During unloading, the pallets roll out into the aisle for easy picking. Push-back racking is therefore an optimal solution for high-volume businesses that value efficiency and space savings.
Choosing the right racking system for your warehouse
Choosing the right racking system for your warehouse is important to maximize efficiency and safety.
First, consider the weight and size of the items you store. Heavy and bulky items are supported by a heavier system, while light items can be stored in lighter racking. Second, consider the layout of your warehouse. Available space will dictate the design of the racking, whether it’s selective, drive-in or push-back.
Also consider your inventory turnover rate. For high turnover, dynamic systems such as flow racking are ideal. Don’t forget accessibility; make sure the system provides easy access for forklifts and personnel.
Finally, always consider safety and regulatory compliance. Investing in a good racking system will optimize space, increase operational efficiency, provide greater safety, and transform your warehouse into a more efficient place. Make the right choice and experience the transformation of your warehouse operations!