A carefully selected racking system maximizes your warehouse capacity and enhances logistics. But which type is best for storing palletized items?
A racking system is a structure designed for storing products, materials, and various items such as pallets, boxes, or containers. These systems are commonly used in warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and retail operations, and they come in different types to suit specific storage needs. Pallet racks, in particular, are the optimal solution for storing palletized items.
Racking systems made from durable metal are designed to withstand heavy-duty use and offer several other benefits:
To achieve the best results and ensure that your space is used efficiently and conveniently, it’s essential to select the right racking system. A properly chosen pallet racking solution can save you both time and costs. When making your decision, consider the following factors:
Pallet racks offer direct access to each pallet and can serve as a high-density storage solution. They are designed to be operated using forklifts, with several types available for selection.
Drive-in pallet racking is designed for storing pallets containing the same type of goods, items with lower turnover rates, or products with a longer shelf life. These racks can also be adapted for First-In First-Out (FIFO) storage systems. Drive-in pallet racks feature multiple levels and can be customized to the required depth. They can be configured in two ways:
Mobile racking systems allow for compact storage of goods while still providing direct access to each pallet. These racking systems are installed on mobile bases that move along rails using wheels, enabling controlled movement of racking blocks. The racks can be joined or separated as needed to create aisles where required, significantly saving space in the warehouse.
Pallet flow racks are ideal for operations that handle a large number of pallets containing the same type of items. They consist of a pallet racking structure combined with roller tracks, which are installed at a slight incline of 3–5%. This incline allows pallets to move along the rollers smoothly. Pallet flow racks operate on two principles: FIFO (First In, First Out) and LIFO (Last In, First Out). Since forklifts do not need to drive through aisles, this design saves time during pallet handling.
Selective pallet racking systems provide direct access to every item in the warehouse. They offer a versatile storage solution suitable for operations with a wide variety of goods, materials, and items. However, when designing the layout, it is essential to ensure that there is enough space for working aisles.
