The type of shelving system you use in your warehouse is critical to the productivity and success of your facility. An efficient warehouse racking system can optimize your layout and improve space utilization for more effective storage and retrieval and a better bottom line.
Depending on the type of goods you carry, there are various pallet racking systems available. While high-density pallet flow racking may be best for fast-moving, first in, first out (FIFO) inventory, spacious cantilever racks are primarily used for bulky, awkwardly-shaped goods, like lumber.
Used Shelving Rack Systems
Used shelving racks are popular storage solutions for warehouses because they are budget-friendly. Quality racking is strong, durable, and can last for many years, offering excellent value for money.
However, choosing the wrong type of used storage system for your facility can disrupt warehouse operations significantly, reducing its profitability. While finding affordable used shelving racks can save you money initially, if the new system slows productivity, product retrieval times, picking systems, and reduces storage capacity, it is likely to cost you in the long term.
If your used shelving rack system is ineffective, consider implementing a solution designed to meet the specific needs of your warehouse.
Before determining what warehouse storage systems are best for your business, it’s important to know what storage solutions are available. Some examples include:
Selective Pallet Racking
Selective pallet racking is one of the most common shelving rack systems as it is low cost and effective. This type of system is called selective because each pallet load can be accessed or selected individually by a forklift operator without moving other pallets.
While selective pallet racking isn’t designed for high-density storage, individual racks can be placed one behind the other, creating a double deep rack. This is a cost-effective approach to improving storage density.
Drive-In Racking
Drive-in racks are high-density storage solutions that maximize storage space (horizontally and vertically) in your warehouse. This type of rack is ideal for
last in, first out (LIFO) storage systems with single-aisle access. By limiting the number of forklift aisles, this system allows for deeper, more compressed storage.
For businesses or warehouses that deal with high volumes of homogenous goods, drive-in racking is an excellent option. However, this type of racking may cost you more than it’s worth if your business is involved with large-scale items that differ in shape and size, like furniture or home appliances.
Carton Flow Racking
Carton flow racks use wheels, rollers, and gravity to move items from one side of a rack to the other. Carton flow racking can have multiple levels, significantly benefiting material handling systems by providing employees with more pick faces.
This shelving rack system is perfect for fast-moving consumer goods (FMCGs) such as food and beverages or automotive parts. However, for slow-moving items, it is not worth the investment.
How a Used Shelving Rack System Can Cost You Money
Used racks can save you money initially, but even high-quality storage equipment experiences wear and tear over time.
Used systems often lose structural integrity much faster than new ones, diminishing their load capacity. This reduces the space efficiency of your warehouse and may also cause a safety hazard.
The Solution
Consider implementing custom solutions to ensure your warehouse shelving rack system isn’t costing you more than it’s worth. Whether you are buying new or used rack systems, the most important factor is suitability. The equipment must fit your layout and optimize your storage and retrieval methods.
Warehouse managers have the critical task of determining their warehouse facilities’ needs and choosing a system that enables efficiency, productivity, and ultimately, profitability. Some of the most important considerations for upgrading your racking system include:
Choosing the Right System
There are different types of warehouse storage racks. Each type is designed for different use, such as high-density, low-density, FIFO, or LIFO systems. Choosing the right racking depends on several factors, such as the size and scale of your facility, the type of goods you store, your warehouse operations strategy, retrieval methods and equipment, and the business’ growth trajectory.
Condition of Equipment
When purchasing used pallet racking, ensure they are in good condition for long-term cost-effectiveness and safety. To alleviate any safety concerns about used rack systems, it’s important to source quality equipment that’s in good condition and tested.
Warehouse Dimensions
The size and dimensions of your available space can dictate what storage solutions suit your facility. This not only affects warehouse efficiency, but it is also important to meet the requirements of the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
Build Custom Storage Solutions With Shelving + Rack Systems Inc.
At Shelving + Racking Systems Inc., we provide a wide range of new and used shelving rack systems. Our qualified and experienced project managers can help you choose the system that not only reduces costs but also increases the overall productivity and efficiency of your facility.
Contact us today to learn how we can help you get the most out of your warehouse shelving racking systems.
