Warehouses can use pallet racking to improve efficiency and maximize space. Forklifts and automated order pickers make loading and unloading pallets from these systems easy. The right rack for a warehouse is the one that improves efficiency and organization. Here are the most common types of racking solutions and their differences.
Selective
Selective systems are best if a warehouse plans to keep a few pallets on hand. Many companies like this because it makes placing and retrieving pallets easy. At its most basic form, selective racks are metal shelves designed to hold pallets. The pallets can be shelved and removed with any forklift. However, this is not always the best option for tight spaces as it does create wasted space.
(Very) Narrow Aisle
Very narrow and narrow racking systems are the best for warehouses looking to maximize their space since the shelves are placed so close together that the remaining corridors are thinner than usual. To efficiently and safely work in these environments, warehouses will need specialized forklifts. Articulated forklifts or turret trucks can pick up the pallets. Then, they can navigate the tiny aisles to put the inventory in the correct spot.
High-Bay
High-bay shelves are great for when a warehouse needs to go higher than average with storage solutions. This type can accommodate single or double-placed pallets. Automatic racking cranes mounted to the floor are the best option for putting away and retrieving inventory with this solution. In addition, high-bay racks tend to be the most convenient when it comes to accessing pallets.
Double-Deep
Double-deep racks allow warehouses two place two pallets on any shelf, meaning the first one shelved will be the last one out. While they are great for companies that need to keep a lot of inventory on hand, they are not the best for maximizing space usage.
Push-Back
Push-backs are great when warehouses want to maximize storage density. Like double-deep racks, they are great for companies that keep a lot of inventory on hand but do not need to optimize their space usage. With these, whenever a forklift puts a new pallet on the rack, it pushes the existing one to the back. As a result, pallets can be stacked anywhere from two to six deep.
Selecting the proper pallet racks will significantly improve efficiency within a warehouse. However, it is not always easy to choose the right one. Researching these options can give any manager or owner more information on the best solution for their space.