If you have ever wondered, what is pallet racking? Well, we have you covered.
Warehouses use these metal structures to store palletized goods. Generally configured using a series of steel vertical uprights and horizontal beams. Pallet racking comes in a variety of heights and levels. Forklifts move pallets from around from one area to and from the racks.
The makeup of a pallet rack system is fairly simple. Using only a few components to make it sturdy and durable.
Although the components of a pallet rack system are typically standard, there’s still a wide variety of different options when purchasing pallet rack systems.
Generally speaking, there are about 6 different types of pallet rack systems and each has its individual aspects that are important to understand when assessing your storage needs.
Selective pallet racks are the most cost-effective methods for storing pallets. It is also the most common. Selective pallet racks come in two types, roll-formed and structural. Roll-formed commonly known as teardrop uses a boltless design and therefore racks are easily adjustable. Structural pallet racks use a bolt design. This can be built into the facility itself.
Pros of using selective pallet rack systems:
Cons of using selective pallet rack systems:
Drive-in pallet racks are an efficient and affordable way to maximize warehouse and storage capabilities. A drive-in pallet rack allows for forklifts to move through the aisles in order to continue stocking and adding additional pallets. Typically used for LIFO (Last In, First Out) storage.
Pros of using drive-in pallet racking:
Cons of using drive-in pallet racking:
Push back racks are ideal for efficient storage while enabling inventory rotation. Unlike other pallet racks, push back racks are great to increase the visibility of products, allowing for a specific selection of inventory items. Like the drive-in pallet rack, push back racks also allow for Last In, First Out (LIFO) inventory management.
Pros of using push back racks:
Cons of using push back racks:
Unlike the systems previously mentioned, pallet flows operate on a First In, First Out (FIFO) inventory management systems. Pallet flow systems get inventory moving and create easier inventory rotation. Because of the nature of the pallet flow systems, it increases the selectivity of inventory compared to other structures, like drive-in pallet racks.
Pros of using pallet flow racks:
Cons of using pallet flow racks:
One of the unique options of pallet racks, cantilever rack systems is freestanding rack systems with front access available. Essentially, cantilever racks act as an industrial storage shelf with no front. Multiple large horizontal arms extend from a single vertical column, creating easy access to all the products and inventory.
Pros of using cantilever rack systems:
Cons of using cantilever rack systems:
Like the pallet flow system, carton flow racking offers great storage for inventories that operate by First In, First Out (FIFO) management. Carton flow racking systems use a rear load design, allowing for easily managed and operated inventory. Unlike other pallet rack types, carton flow racking systems automatically rotate products by design, allowing for maximum efficiency and storage organization.
Pros of using carton flow rack systems:
Cons of using carton flow rack systems:
Internal structures such as pallet racking can pose a hazard for falling items. Thus, most cities and counties will require permitting. Rules and regulation govern designing a sound and safe structure. There are various factors that need to be considered in planning your racking. These include:
The potential for items to fall from the pallet rack may require additional containment accessories.
As the warehouse or distribution center manager or owner, your company is responsible for keeping your employees or anyone in the warehouse safe. It is therefore important that when searching for a vendor, that you make sure all the necessary steps to engineer your structure are followed.
While there is no doubt that no-one knows your warehouse and products better than you, it is best to leave the full design to the professionals. Your pallet racking vendor has the experience and the resources to research the best options to fit your budget.
The design process of a medium to large size warehouse may include the following:
Suggested Reading
What is Pallet Racking
Learn more about pallet racking resources in your area.
If you are interested in working with us please email sales@industrialpalletracking.com