Warehouse rack systems are integral to an efficient and productive storage facility. Pallet racking comes in various styles, sizes, and weight capacities, ensuring seamless integration for all warehouse designs.
A carefully selected pallet rack storage system can help a company meet storage demands without expanding or moving to a new facility. Many pallet racks can use vertical storage space in your warehouse, providing workers and forklift drivers with safer routes on the ground level.
Advantages of Pallet Racking Systems
Quality racks facilitate high-density storage, compacting palletized inventory, and help you use warehouse storage space better. Racking is typically made from durable steel to handle heavy materials and absorb impact from material handling equipment. It is a simple but effective method of organizing materials, contributing to accurate stock control.
One of the greatest advantages of pallet racks is safety. It is built for longevity from heavy-gauge steel, minimizing the risks of warehouse accidents. It helps protect staff and inventory from unnecessary harm. However, storage equipment is not universal, so assessing your options is essential before choosing a system for your warehouse.
Choosing the Right Type of Pallet Rack System
Choosing the right storage method can improve the storage capacity of your warehouse, streamline workflow, increase volume order picking, and minimize damage to inventory. These factors can have a tremendous impact on profit margins. However, identifying the most appropriate equipment is a challenge for warehouse management.
Businesses must consider the available space, product types, material handling equipment, and the desired inventory management system before deciding on a rack setup. Heavy duty goods, like building supplies, require large, vertically integrated systems with plenty of aisle space. Facilities that mainly handle smaller items need dense storage units to accommodate high volumes and frequent stock rotations.
Different Types of Storage Racks
There is a wide range of storage options available to warehouse managers, with certain styles designed specifically for particular products. At Shelving + Rack Systems, Inc., we stock a comprehensive selection of new and used storage equipment. Our inventory list has several custom options to accommodate virtually any warehouse design.
We supply high-quality shelving if your facility implements a manual inventory management system. Steel shelves are easy to access and maintain and are often an excellent complementary option alongside pallet racks. If you’re considering a warehouse upgrade, consider the following pallet rack options for your facility.
Selective Pallet Racking
Selective racking is the most widely used storage system in the U.S. While selective pallet racks don’t facilitate high-capacity storage, they are one of the most cost-effective warehouse storage solutions. Selective racks are designed for low-volume storage and can accommodate a range of SKUs.
This storage system can be configured as a single selective or double rack. For double-deep storage, individual rows must be positioned back to back. Selective racks have a basic configuration of frames, beams, and multiple deck options, like wire decking. However, they can be accessorized with bins, trays, and protective equipment.
Selective racking is an excellent option for a first-in, first-out (FIFO) retrieval system. Palletized goods can be picked and stored easily using standard forklifts. We stock multiple selective rack systems in several materials and styles. Our galvanized steel racks are a stable and versatile solution for various product types.
They are available in several sizes and heights to fit your desired storage density. The hot-dipped galvanized coating makes it suitable for harsh warehouse environments and temperature fluctuations. The largest size comes in 12-gauge durable steel and can support up to 30,580 lbs.
Push-Back Racks
Push-back racks are high-density storage systems that are commonly used in warehouse operations. Dynamic storage is achieved by inserting product trays onto carriage wheel groups mounted on angled rails.
The rear tray is brought to the front side of the picking position by pushing the forward tray back. This allows for quick and easy access to inventory while minimizing aisle width requirements. In addition, push-back racks can be designed to accommodate various product sizes and weights, making them a versatile solution for high-density storage.
Push-back racks provide a safe storage option. When a pallet is pushed back into the rack, it is automatically locked into place. This prevents it from being accidentally dislodged, and it also helps to avoid damage to the product. As a result, push-back racks offer an ideal solution for those looking for a more efficient and safe rack system.
We stock the frames, beams, uprights, base plates, and wheel systems to create a push-back racking structure. Our tear drop frames from Space USA are an excellent option the lay the foundations of your push-back system. They can support up to 26,620 lbs of inventory, accommodating heavy weights and high-volume storage.
Pallet Flow Racking
Pallet flow storage systems, or carton flow pallet racking, are designed to store and retrieve products via a first-in, first-out (FIFO) retrieval method. This system is often used in facilities requiring high-density storage and fast order fulfillment, such as warehouses and distribution centers.
Pallet flow racks typically consist of two inclined rails mounted on each other, creating a channel for product cartons to flow down. Gravity flow brings the cartons to the front of the pallet flow rack, where workers can access them for volume order picking.
Pallet flow storage systems can be combined with other racks to create a custom storage solution that meets the specific needs of your facility. With proper maintenance and careful product placement, a pallet flow system can provide years of reliable service.
We supply key equipment for assembling custom carton flow rack systems. A carton flow rack uses rollers and conveyors to transport goods for accurate pallet retrieval. Our extruded conveyors are made from durable aluminum, making them suitable for industrial warehouse environments. We also supply extra wheels to replace broken or missing parts of your carton flow racking systems.
Drive-In Racking
Drive-in pallet rack systems are a high-density storage solution perfect for businesses with large quantities of homogenous products. Drive-in pallet racking systems allow forklifts to drive directly into the system to load or retrieve pallets, making them an extremely efficient storage solution.
A drive-in system uses deep horizontal bays to store large quantities of similar products. Drive-in pallet rack systems are designed for last-in, first-out (LIFO) inventory rotation. This means that the most recently arrived products will be stored at the back of the rack, and the first products will be stored at the front.
Drive-in rack systems are often used in warehouses and distribution centers where space is at a premium, and there is a need to maximize storage density. Thanks to their reduced aisle widths, drive-in rack systems can significantly increase storage capacity compared to traditional pallet racks.
Drive-in racks are also a cost-effective storage solution, as they require less up-front investment than other high-density storage solutions such as mezzanines or AS/RS systems.
We stock high-quality uprights for drive-in rack systems. Our FastRak aisle upright units feature a tear drop design for quick and easy assembly and reconfiguration. They are designed for heavy-duty storage and can support up to 7,000 lbs per upright column. They are manufactured from heavy-gauge steel to withstand some damage from forklift trucks.
Cantilever Racking
Cantilever racks are a storage system commonly used for bulky or heavy materials. Unlike traditional storage racks with solid shelves, cantilever racks have arms extending out from the main structure. This design allows for easy loading and unloading of materials, as there is no need to reach over or around obstacles.
A cantilever rack is also ideal for storing materials of varying sizes, as the arms can be adjusted to accommodate different loads. As a result, Cantilever racks are a versatile and efficient storage solution for a wide range of bulky items in heavy-duty garage storage or outdoor storage yards.
Cantilever racks are featured products designed to hold heavy loads, making them ideal for storing items such as lumber, pipes, and other materials. These racks also significantly increase your storage efficiency and keep your workspace organized, offering easy access to stored items.
When choosing cantilever rack storage, select one rated for the weight of your material. This will help ensure that your rack can safely hold your items.
Our galvanized steel cantilever racks are the perfect storage option for difficult items like steel sheets or large pieces of lumber. They can be placed back to back to accommodate your forklift driver’s single or double entry access. The galvanized steel finish ensures this storage rack can be used inside or outside. Each arm can support up to 3,480 lbs. The columns hold a maximum of 12,500 lbs.
Industrial Shelving
Project managers are always looking for ways to optimize space and increase storage efficiency. An industrial shelving unit can provide plenty of horizontal storage space, perfect for those who need to store smaller, hand-picked items. Shelves are often adjustable, so you can easily customize the unit to meet your specific storage needs.
A pallet racking system may be the best option if you handle large goods. However, warehouse shelving can help you reduce the overall storage cost in your facility. It is surprisingly affordable, making it an excellent option for those on a tight budget. If you’re looking for a way to reduce storage costs, consider one of our industrial shelving options.
Rivet Shelving
Rivet shelving is industrial shelving designed for easy assembly and installation. Many rivet shelving units can be assembled in minutes without requiring nuts, bolts, or clips. It is an excellent choice for businesses that need to quickly and easily set up additional storage space. This storage method is highly versatile and allows for custom components to be added.
A rivet storage shelving unit typically consists of metal frames connected by horizontal decking. The beams can be positioned at various heights to create shelves of different sizes, and additional components can be added to create a variety of storage configurations. Rivet shelving is often used in commercial settings such as warehouses and storage facilities, but it can also be a practical storage solution for home use.
Our 200A shelving units are strong but versatile. The shelves adjust on 1 to ½-inch centers and support up to 300 lbs. each. They are available at multiple heights, from 3 to 12 feet. Each storage shelving unit can be assembled with minimal equipment, so you won’t have to hire installation services.
Steel Shelving
Steel creates heavy-duty shelving, making it ideal for industrial storage applications, like commercial warehouses or fulfillment centers. With adjustable steel shelving, access to storage is easy, particularly with open configurations.
Steel shelving can support a great deal of weight when properly installed, making it an ideal choice for heavy-duty garage storage. In addition, the smooth surfaces and sharp edges of steel shelving make it easy to keep clean, further extending its lifespan. With the proper care, steel shelving can provide years of reliable storage without needing repair services.
Our all-welded steel shelving comes pre-assembled. Each storage shelving unit has a 2,000 lbs weight capacity, ensuring it can be used for heavy, slow-moving inventory. The reinforced 12-gauge steel is durable and can absorb some contact from a forklift driver. However, this storage unit works for common applications, like garage shelving.
Wire Mesh Shelving
Wire mesh shelving is a dynamic storage solution. Wire mesh promotes steady air flow, limiting dust, debris, and moisture build-up. While wire doesn’t provide solid foundations for bulky items, this storage method is widely used in food and beverage distribution centers. Some wire shelves are coated in epoxy resin, ensuring they are suited to damp environments or cold storage.
We stock a comprehensive variety of wire mesh for perishables like pharmaceuticals. Choose from mobile types or stationary rack structures, depending on your facility’s needs. One of our most popular wire mesh shelf options is the 4-shelf stationary unit.
The standard storage solution is the starter unit, which comes with four sets of shelves and posts. Each storage shelving unit has adjustable feet, helping keep a level aisle position. The posts and shelves have a durable zinc plate covering, providing durability in harsh warehouse environments. Individual shelves support up to 800 lbs. of inventory.
Mobile Shelving
Mobile shelving systems are often used in commercial applications, including warehouses, fulfillment centers, and retail stores. Wheel systems allow them to be transported quickly around a facility for efficient inventory turnover. With no fixed aisle position, mobile units help with horizontal storage space management. They can be used to quickly move an entire batch of goods from one location to another.
Mobile shelving is a more cost-effective storage method than a pallet flow rack with inclined rails. Mobile shelving is popular for transporting goods to and from cold rooms. However, it is an adaptable storage solution used in various commercial applications.
Our 4-shelf mobile storage shelving unit is an excellent choice for fast-paced warehouses or fulfillment centers. These units move on sturdy casters, which contain built-in brakes. The adjustable shelves can be adapted to facilitate easy product accessibility, including heavy items. Each rolling cart has a 1,200 lbs. weight capacity evenly distributed across the unit.
Materials and Accessories
While the design and type of storage rack are crucial, you also need to consider the construction material and accessories necessary to improve the shelving and provide further options and support. We stock a variety of accessories and custom components that can increase storage efficiency and improve warehouse safety, including extra wheels, gravity rollers, storage tanks, rolling cart systems, and a range of shelves for storage units.
Column protectors are some of the most basic but effective protective equipment for a pallet rack storage system. We provide column protectors in a range of shapes and sizes. They attach to an aisle upright column or post with nylon fasteners for a secure fit. This limits damage from forklift trucks in busy warehouses and fulfillment centers.
Our columns are available in a selection of bright colors, ensuring they can be seen easily by a forklift driver.
We also stock other safety accessories like traffic barriers for outdoor storage yards, guard rails, bollards, and aisle tape for common applications. Consult our online brochure to find your desired safe storage option.
Secure High-Quality Storage Equipment From Shelving + Rack Systems, Inc.
Warehouse storage requirements can be complicated and require several different racks to ensure you have the most efficient method for keeping goods safe. Accessibility is vital, especially when working with perishable merchandise, and you can help keep your staff safe by adding safety accessories.
At Shelving + Rack Systems, Inc., we provide affordable storage racking systems, shelving, and accessories. Our design specialists also offer consultation services and can conduct a complete design for an entire warehouse operation.
Installation services are also provided, by factory-trained and insured crews, ensuring all equipment is integrated correctly.
We strive to offer the lowest price possible, whether you need cantilever rack storage or standard shelves for storage. For more information on our products and services, contact us today at (800) 589-7225.