Looking for a storage solution that maximizes space in your high-density warehouse or distribution center? Push back pallet racking is your answer. Especially effective for facilities operating on a last-in-first-out (LIFO) inventory system, this racking system optimizes storage efficiency and manages inventory seamlessly.
If you run a facility and want to know how push back pallet racking works, its benefits, and if it’s suitable for your warehouse, our easy-to-follow guide has all the answers. It’s packed with information and responses to push back pallet racking FAQs to help you improve your storage capabilities.
What is Push Back Pallet Racking?
Push back racking offers an efficient approach to storage, transforming how warehouses handle their inventory. Unlike traditional static racks, this system is tailored for a last-in-first-out (LIFO) inventory management style.
This system works on the principle that the most recently placed item on the rack is the first to be removed. It uses depth to store multiple pallets in one bay, maximizing warehouse space and ensuring easy access to each pallet.
How Does Push Back Racking Work?
Push back racking uses shuttles or rollers to glide pallets along inclined rails deep into the system. Shuttles enable the pallets to slide back and forth effortlessly as they are loaded and unloaded.
Alternatively, roller beds, which are more budget-friendly than shuttles, are integrated into the rack structure. These rollers create a gentle slope, allowing pallets to move smoothly within the system.
The system is designed with a specific area at the front for forklifts to place and retrieve pallets. As new pallets are added, they push the existing ones further back into the rack.
We offer a wide range of rollers suitable for a variety of product types. Our selection includes extruded aluminum conveyors available with PVC and stainless steel rollers, which come in various widths and lengths to suit the dimensions of your pallets.
For heavy-duty applications, our steel roller conveyors are designed with a rugged 10-gauge steel frame supporting up to 1,400 lbs. of inventory, while the 16-gauge steel rollers carry a storage capacity of 250 lbs.
What are the Advantages of Using Push Back Pallet Racking?
Push back racking is a popular solution for optimizing warehouse storage thanks to its advantages over other systems. Key benefits of this system include:
- Space optimization: By using depth for storage, pushback racking increases the storage density compared to traditional racking systems. This allows more products to be stored in the same amount of space.
- Improved inventory access: The last-in-first-out (LIFO) approach makes it easier to access recently stored items, streamlining the process of retrieving goods.
- Enhanced storage flexibility: Push back racking can accommodate various pallet sizes and weights, offering greater flexibility in storing diverse inventory types.
- Reduced handling time: The smooth sliding mechanism of shuttles or rollers minimizes the time and effort needed to load and unload pallets, increasing operational efficiency.
- Lower risk of damage: As pallets are moved more gently compared to forklift handling in traditional racking, there’s a reduced risk of damage to the goods.
- Ease of installation and maintenance: This system is generally easy to install and maintain, which can be a cost-effective benefit over the long term.
What is the Storage Capacity of a Push Back Pallet Rack?
Push back racking systems are designed to boost storage capacity. They allow for pallet storage on both sides of an aisle, enhancing product selectivity and enabling access to multiple SKUs from a single aisle. Generally, these systems can accommodate 2-5 pallets in depth, significantly increasing storage space while maintaining efficient access to stored items.
Our Unirak frames are an ideal match for push back racking, crafted to cater to your storage requirements, even in high-density environments. Featuring a teardrop design, these frames enable straightforward assembly and flexible reconfiguration, helping you maximize your warehouse storage capacity. With a load-bearing capacity of up to 21,200 lbs, they guarantee that your storage solution is efficient and secure.
Is it Possible to Engineer Custom Push Back Racking Systems?
One of the best features of push back racking is its versatility. These systems can be tailored to fit different pallet sizes and arrangements in the same lane, providing a highly adaptable storage option. This means whether you need to store large or small items, push back racking can be customized to suit your unique storage requirements.
We offer specialized components for custom solutions. Our step pallet rack beams, designed for push back systems, can support up to 7,215 lbs. of inventory. These beams play a crucial role in reinforcing the strength and dependability of your tailored push back racking systems, effectively optimizing the use of your warehouse space.
Can Push Back Racking Systems be Retrofitted?
Push back racking systems offer the advantage of easy integration into existing warehouse configurations. Whether you aim to improve your current storage arrangement or reorganize your warehouse, this racking system can be retrofitted to boost storage efficiency without total restructuring.
Does Push Back Racking Require Special Forklift Equipment?
Push back racking systems are compatible with standard forklift equipment, making them a versatile and cost-effective choice. There is no need for specialized forklifts, reducing additional equipment costs and ensuring easy integration into your warehouse operations.
Can Push Back Racking Systems Be Used in Cold Storage or Freezer Environments?
Push back racking is an excellent fit for cold storage and freezer settings. It enables practical storage of perishable items in a small area, making the most of your cooled space. Its flexibility and adaptability are particularly useful in temperature-sensitive storage facilities.
Our galvanized pallet racks are an excellent choice for long-lasting racking in cold storage environments, like those used for food, beverages, or pharmaceuticals. They’re built to resist corrosion, which is essential in the high-moisture conditions of industrial freezers. This makes them a highly valuable option for busy places like fulfillment centers.
What are the Safety Considerations for Push Back Pallet Racking?
When it comes to push back pallet racking, safety is a priority. These systems include several safety mechanisms to prevent pallets from accidentally slipping off the rails. This ensures the safety of warehouse staff and protects the goods stored on the racks.
Safety features found in push back racking systems include:
- Safety locks: These locks secure pallets in place, preventing accidental movement or dislodging during loading and unloading.
- Safety stops: Stops are strategically placed to prevent pallets from rolling too far forward, ensuring they remain within the designated storage area.
- Guardrails: Guardrails can be installed to create a physical barrier between the push back racking system and materials handling equipment like forklifts, providing an extra layer of protection.
- Hi-vis markings: Clear and visible markings can be added to indicate safe loading and unloading areas within the system, helping forklift operators maintain safe practices.
Are There Any Limitations to Using Push Back Racking?
While push back racking systems are efficient for warehouse storage, they have some drawbacks. They’re not the best choice for storing a diverse range of SKUs, as each lane holds only one product type. If you have a varied product assortment and don’t need several pallets for each SKU, this can lead to wasted space.
The initial cost of push back racking is usually higher than standard pallet racks, which could be a financial challenge for start-ups or small businesses with lower turnover.
Also, the design of these systems typically limits storage to a depth of up to five pallets, which might not meet all your storage requirements.
What are the Costs Associated with Installing Push Back Racking Systems?
The cost of installing push back racking systems can vary widely, depending on several factors. These include the size of your warehouse, the number of systems you require, any customization needed, and the specific supplier or manufacturer you choose.
- System size: The size of the system you need will impact the overall cost.
- Number of systems: The cost will increase if you require multiple push back racking systems.
- Customization: Customizing the system to accommodate specific pallet sizes or racking accessories may add to the cost.
While push back racking systems may come with an initial investment, they offer cost-effective storage solutions by maximizing storage capacity and minimizing the need for expensive warehouse expansions or relocations.
How Do I Determine if Push Back Racking is the Right Solution?
To decide if push back racking is suitable for your warehouse, start by looking at your inventory turnover. This system works best for medium-turnover products with multiple pallets per SKU.
Next, think about how much space you need. Push back racking saves floor space since it stores pallets deep and cuts down on aisle space. It’s also a good option if you have a lot of vertical space. Keep in mind, though, that while it can provide an excellent ROI in the long run, it requires a bigger upfront investment than standard pallet racking.
Can I Integrate Push Back Racking with Other Warehouse Management Systems or Technologies?
Push back racking can be easily integrated with other warehouse management systems and tech tools, boosting overall efficiency. You can fine-tune inventory management and smooth operations by adding push back racking into your warehouse’s tech setup. Here are some ways to integrate push back racking:
- Inventory management software: Implement inventory management software like inFlow or Katana to track products stored in the push back racking system and manage inventory levels effectively.
- Order fulfillment systems: Integrate push back racking with order fulfillment systems to ensure efficient order picking and delivery processes.
- Forklift fleet management: Use fleet management technology to optimize the movement of forklifts within your warehouse, ensuring seamless interaction with push back racking systems.
- Warehouse automation: Explore opportunities for warehouse automation, such as automated guided vehicles (AGVs) or robotics, to work in conjunction with push back racking.
Find the Right Push Back Pallet Racking for Your Warehouse
At Shelving + Rack Systems, Inc., we can configure and implement push back racking systems that optimize your warehouse space and enhance storage efficiency. Our experienced team works closely with you to design a system that maximizes your storage capacity while ensuring easy access and efficient inventory rotation.
If you want to update your warehouse’s storage system, contact us at (800) 589-7225. We can help you find the right push back pallet racking solution for your warehouse.
