Maximizing warehouse space through industrial racking
Warehouses all over the world utilize industrial racking as a sustainable solution for optimizing storage space; however, industrial racking must be used in an effective and efficient manner. Palette racking is one of the common types of racking that is being used today. The racking can be formed into a structure-like system with upright columns bolted securely to ensure greater weight-bearing capacity. The racking is configured in a way that a bolt fixing is in the form of adjustable racks that can be adjusted, reconfigured, dismantled or reused according to requirements. The selective pallet system is the most common type of palette racking because it is more cost effective compared to the more dense storage solutions. Since it allows accessibility in all directions, the FIFO or LIPO warehouse policies can be effectively applied.
Drive-in racking system for denser storage requirements
Warehouses that require a high level of space utilization benefit from drive-in racking system. Forklift trucks can drive directly to the bay because the palettes are on side rails and not cross beams which leaves the face of the bay open. This style of racking is typically 6 to 8 palettes deep per bay and forklifts are used to lift the load to a proper level before the load is put in the back of the system. A second palette will be put in a second position from the back and the procedure continues until the lane is full. The drive-in racks apply LIFO which is the most suitable option of storing large amounts of palettes of similar products. The cantilever racking has column protectors or guide rails in order to provide additional protection against forklift damage.
Palette flow rack system for high storage density
Similar to the drive-in racks, the palette flow rack system is another option for large product quantities because they can be stored in 20+ palette-deep. This type of racking system makes use of upright and cross beams that support a gravity roller conveyor with the rack. The rollers are pitched slightly so that the palettes will naturally flow towards the front of the system. Once a palette has been unloaded from the front of the rack system, the next one will move towards an exit position. There is no need for a forklift truck to drive inside the racking system; however, among the different types of racking systems, the palette flow rack requires the biggest investment.
Maximization of space is one of the goals in warehousing but it should also optimize productivity. It makes sense to evaluate the different types of industrial racking to determine which best suits the requirements.