How to maximize warehouse space through warehouse racking
When you have an abundance of inventory, there is usually a reduction in warehouse productivity. Floor space is used for pallets that are placed one on top of the other. Aisles can’t be found because they are cluttered with boxes and products. Warehouse personnel spend hours trying to hunt down a specific raw material that will be used in production. One of the best options to address the situation and have a systematic warehouse organization is warehouse racking which is used in many parts of the world due to its flexibility. One example of warehouse racking that is frequently used for large inventories is the pallet racking system where each storage location can be used for a specific type of product. Storage and retrieval of pallets are fast and effective through the use forklifts. Aisle widths do not have to be too big but adequate enough for the mobile equipment that will be used.
A closer look at pallet racking system
As the name implies, this warehouse racking system can be used for the storage of products that are placed on pallets. The pallets are loaded and unloaded into the system by forklifts. The open design of pallet racking is ideal for large inventories since it makes storage and retrieval a lot easier. Walls can be lined with pallet racks so that the floor will not be cluttered with pallets. This can improve productivity because there are no obstructions that can impact on worker movement and safety. Sturdy steel racking is the option for storing heavy items like equipment and machinery so that they will be out of the way leaving the floors clear and open. Racks are virtually maintenance free and they can easily be upgraded and expanded efficiently once there is a need.
Pallet racks can be moved or relocated to another location in the facility because they are easily dismantled and reassembled. Individual accessories can be purchased separately like barriers, coil holders, column guards, drum chocks or pallet supports. If you need to replace anything in the system, it does not become an issue. Pallet racking is certainly an investment that can convert unused vertical space into something useful.
If you are considering pallet racking for your business, it is important to evaluate the warehouse layout, its size, shape and height including doorways and windows to determine the right type of racking. You also need to make allowances in case you want to change the configuration of the racking for different pallet sizes. There may be a need to adjust its height or add additional frames when the warehouse needs additional storage capacity for abundant inventory.