Explaining Warehouse Racking Systems
A warehouse rack system optimizes storage capacity and streamlines inventory management. It also improves operational efficiency. Racks enable companies to scale up as their businesses grow and evolve over time.
Rack layouts that are efficient can speed up the workflow by grouping items that move faster together near shipping points. Clearly labeled rows and bays streamline product identification and inventory visibility.
Selective Racking
Selective warehouse racking system offer warehouse managers a versatile storage solution that combines both space optimization and high load capacity. The system is easily reconfigurable and compatible with standard equipment, which reduces the need for expensive rack modifications. It also facilitates better inventory management and a more effective workspace.
Beams for Selective racking are available in different lengths and sizes to accommodate different loads. They are ideal for a wide range of applications. Hot dip galvanisation can be used to increase their corrosion resistance, and they can withstand harsh environments such as warehouses with high salinity levels. They can also be fitted with a welded base, which offers stability and distribution of the load across the floor to avoid collapse or damage.
Column protectors are an important accessory for Selective Racking. They protect the system against damage caused by forklifts. They are generally made of durable materials like steel or high-density plastic and wrap around the rack columns. The dimensions of these protectors must be accurately measured to ensure a snug fit for optimal protection.
A regular racking inspection and maintenance routine is essential to the longevity of your warehouse racking system. You can save money and ensure safety in the warehouse by identifying and repairing any problems as soon as possible. Regular racking inspections will also help to reduce the risk of catastrophic failures and prolong the life of your warehouse storage system.
Drive-In Racking
Drive-In Racking is an extremely dense warehouse storage system that offers high capacity storage with fewer aisles than conventional selective pallet racking systems. It is often designed 6-8 pallets deep and uses side rails to support the pallets rather than requiring cross beams. This is an excellent solution when you want to maximize your storage space without having to physically expand it. This is a simple solution that can be easily adapted by your team. It also accommodates most forklift models.
Drive in systems have a single entry/exit and are operated on a LIFO (last-in, first-out) inventory management mode. It is ideal for batch production, cold storage applications and non perishable products. It is also commonly used in cold rooms to buffer shipments, allowing your facility to maximize its space.
Having access to your inventory quickly and easily is essential for warehouse operations. Drive-in systems can be a good option when you need to manage homogenous SKUs, and prioritize FIFO management. This is particularly useful for warehouses with high logistics real estate costs. It can reduce the number and size of aisles in your warehouse. These warehouse storage solutions also provide benefits like streamlined handling, minimal maintenance and reduced costs.
Double Deep Racking
The double-deep racking system stores pallets two levels deep. This allows a warehouse to maximize its storage space and inventory while using the same standard material-handling equipment. This racking system is most common in cold storage, dry storage and distribution centers that store durable goods with a medium to long shelf life. This racking system is popular for increasing the storage capacity of a facility while adhering the “last in,first out” (LIFO), loading requirements.
Double-deep pallet racks consist of two standard selective racking bays of rack that install back to back. Each rack bay is accessed through one side and will have a front pallet and a back pallet that can be loaded and unloaded at the same time. This racking system works well for warehouse operations that have enough product in common to benefit from increased storage density, but not enough to justify the space or labor investment required by higher-density racking systems such as drive in or flow rack.
As with all warehouse rack systems, it’s essential to conduct a cost-benefit evaluation, taking into account factors such as building size and layouts, product volumes and turnovers, available storage space, material handling equipment capabilities, and more. A warehouse expert can help you determine whether the double-deep racking system is a good fit for your business.
Case Flow Racking
Carton flow racks are gravity-driven systems that have inclined platforms or roller bed surfaces. This allows goods to slide down by the force of gravity. When a carton is picked, it moves forward, leaving space for the next carton to move in its place, making this type of storage system ideal for first-in, first-out (FIFO) stock management.
The load and pick aisles can be separated by putting them on the opposite side of the warehouse. This helps to keep inventory organized and reduces interference. This is especially useful in perishable-goods warehouses where the stock turnover is high, as it can prevent product waste and promote efficient storage.
Unlike static storage solutions, carton and case flow racks separate order-picking from stocking, which significantly increases productivity and cuts labor costs. The FIFO operation ensures that inventory is always available and fresh, avoiding costly delays caused by out-of stock items.
These systems can be integrated into existing pallet racks or built as standalone racks. They can also feature a range of customizable elements to suit specific installation requirements, including varying roller track widths, lane heights and wheel designs. They can be used for a variety of applications including light, heavy and medium-duty.