3 Types Of Pallet Racking That Can Improve Your Warehouse
Pallet racking is among the most common storage options utilized in warehouses today. This material handling equipment allows you to take advantage of the vertical space within your warehouse to increase storage volume without requiring a larger building.
The right pallet racking can help your warehouse flow smoothly, while the wrong racking system could create logistical problems that will compromise your customer service. Consider each of the following pallet racking systems to determine which best meets your company's material handling needs.
1. Single Rack System
One of the most basic types of pallet racking is the single rack system. A structure is created that can accommodate a single loaded pallet on each shelf. This setup allows you to easily access every pallet that is stored within your warehouse and can ensure that product moves through your warehouse based on package date.
The only drawback to a single rack system is that you are limited in the number of pallets that you can store at any given time. Companies with smaller production volumes can benefit from a single rack system.
2. Push-Back Rack System
If you need more storage than a single rack system can offer, you should consider a push-back rack system. The shelves in these pallet racks are designed to house multiple pallets. As a new pallet is placed on the shelf, the one at the front is pushed back until the rack is full.
A push-back system operates on the premise of last-in, first-out. This can pose some challenges for companies with lower sales volume, since the pallets at the rear of the rack can remain unused. A push-back system is the perfect option for companies who tend to ship in batches.
3. Pallet Flow Rack System
Companies that want the storage capacity of a push-back system with the accessibility of a single rack system can opt for a pallet flow rack system. These racks can be accessed from both sides.
Manufacturing loads the pallets from one end, utilizing a push-back method until each shelf is full. Shipping them pulls pallets from the opposite end of the rack, ensuring that the oldest pallets will be shipped out first. This system works great for companies with products that need to be shipped fresh.
Careful consideration must be given to the type of pallet racking system that you will use in your warehouse. You want a system that will easily accommodate your production and sales volume to help preserve the integrity of your products when they are sent to customers.