Pallet racking storage is meant to be a great asset to your warehouse. Here are a few tips to get the most of out your industrial pallet racks.
DO investigate different pallet racking styles before you choose
Push back pallet racks are deep enough to accommodate 2 to 6 pallets per row. These use the first-in-last-out approach since the older stock is pushed to the back as new pallets are added.
Pallet flow racks use the first in first out approach which makes it preferred for stock prone to aging and expiry. The rack has access on both sides to allow the new stock to be added at the back of the row.
Mobile pallet racks look a lot like fixed pallet racks but are mounted on floor tracks. The racks move sideways and can be pushed up against each other. The aisles can be opened up one by one as needed.
Drive-in style racks don’t use a traditional access aisle. Instead, the racks framework is designed so that the forklift can drive into the actual structure to stack or retrieve inventory.
Double deep pallet racks store in the pallets two rows deep as opposed to just one. You’ll need a specialized forklift with a double deep reaching attachment to lift two pallets at a time.
There are also other types of industrial pallet racks for sale. Know what your options are and ask an expert to help you select the best option for your facility.
DON’T chose pallet racking without thoroughly considering your facility layout
All industrial pallet racks have layout requirements specific to that style. You’ll need to make sure that you have enough space for your forklift to maneuver around racking, that the racking will provide the accessibility you need for aging stock, and that your equipment is suitable to reach and move pallets.
Space is not the only consideration. Once you’ve designed a warehouse floorplan to include the proposed racking, you must make sure that the arrangement doesn’t violate any safety codes.
DO make sure that your choice is suitable to the stock that you carry
The most basic consideration is whether or not the style of pallet racking that you plan to buy will be able to carry the size and weight of your stock.
Will you need to apply the first in first out principle, or first in last out? This is very important when you’re dealing with aging or perishable stock. Accessibility of stock is different for each style.
DON’T forget to investigate the costs of maintenance and repairs
Installing any type of high-density storage is a costly exercise. A good repair and maintenance plan will keep your racking is an optimal condition before wear and tear can cause costly damage. Don’t make the mistake of overlooking a maintenance budget for your racking system.
Schedule regular maintenance inspections and fix any damage or wear and tear immediately. Leaving a problem could compromise the safety of the system and become a risk to staff or stock.
DO build safety processes specific to the system you choose
Staff safety must be a top priority in any warehouse. Each racking system has a list of system-specific safety risks to be aware of. Develop safety rules and processes and then train your staff to adhere to these. All staff should also be trained to identify and report any damage to the system, no matter how small. What may seem insignificant to one person, may turn out to be a big risk if unattended.
DON’T overlook the option of buying used pallet racking
Buying used pallet racking makes a lot of sense. It’s not only a cost-effective option, but it’s also environmentally friendly. Companies, like Shelving + Rack Systems, Inc. who sells used racking will make sure that the shelves are compliant with quality and safety.
