A strategically planned warehouse racking system doesn’t just create essential storage space; it is a fundamental infrastructural element that allows smooth warehouse operations, which ultimately adds to improving your business.
A warehouse racking system is more important than you think. It entails organizing stock into pallets before storing items on horizontal shelving. A warehouse pallet rack increases floor space which allows for fast and easy order preparation while optimizing the use of vertical space.
The following hacks can help your business to create an ideal pallet racking system.
Storage Density
Space utilization is essential in creating a good pallet racking system. Depending on the type of products you supply, different storage solutions should be considered. If you need to maximize the number of goods you can store in your warehouse; you must take in into consideration a high-density storage system.
However, this does not provide access to any pallet at any time. Rather, if the unit load is in an internal position, the pallets in front must first be moved to gain access to it.
Effective storage solutions for high-density goods include deep lane storage, drive-in, drive-thru, and push-back racks. A high-density system may store between 2 and 5 pallets deep.
Single deep selective pallet racks on the other hand are the most common type of pallet racks. They are low-density, allowing for access to every pallet position. This creates very flexible loading and placement however uses more space than high-density pallet systems.
Items such as timber or industrial piping are particularly difficult to store efficiently. Using a cantilever rack helps to use the space effectively when storing such products.
Order Retrieval: LIFO or FIFO
A crucial factor in inventory management is whether you adopt a last-in-first-out (LIFO) or first-in-first-out (FIFO) retrieval system. As well as easing potential material handling issues, a LIFO or FIFO system is crucial for managing date-sensitive goods.
LIFO is an inventory management system associated with nonperishable goods. It prioritizes selling the stock that’s most recently entered the warehouse. Goods must be stored in a particular way to facilitate a quick turnaround.
On the other hand, FIFO is an inventory management system that revolves around selling older products first. This is generally a tactic to avoid older goods becoming outdated while they are in storage. Not getting rid of older products can result in warehouse congestion and a loss of potential sales.
Focus On Storage Efficiency
Warehouses are measured in square feet, while the amount of space a pallet takes up is measured in cubic feet. Calculating storage efficiency can be done by multiplying the length by the width and height of the pallet.
For a standard pallet-based system, it’s beneficial to have high ceilings. As long as a warehouse has the appropriate equipment, this allows them to run more efficiently.
Aisle Width
Aisle Width has a direct influence on the dimensions and number of racks that you install. Many warehouses adopt a 30cm wide aisle to ensure forklifts can maneuver quickly and safely.
Aisle width is also crucial for employee and forklift access. Easy access to warehouse items is essential for productivity and safety. An aisle usually ranges anywhere from 20 to 33cm.
Many warehouses adopt a 30cm wide aisle to ensure forklifts can maneuver quickly and safely. However, smaller goods don’t require such a wide aisle. They can operate using relatively narrow aisles, maximizing storage space. Wire decks can be used to give more support to a rack. They’re simple to install and don’t affect visibility despite the additional support.
For more information, visit the warehouse shelving section on our website or give us a call at +356 2713 9608 to request a free quotation.