Archive for March, 2013

What type of racking do I need?

Pallet racking has been used in most warehouses since the Second World War. Before that, pallets of products were often stored on warehouse floors, but this was not a very effective use of space. Pallet racking allows businesses to use the maximum amount of space possible for storing products.

The basic principle of pallet racking is that it allows pallets to be stored in rows on multiple levels,

If you are considering installing a pallet racking system in your warehouse, then your first step is to get in touch with us for free and independent advice. We have experienced and helpful staff who can discuss your needs with you to make sure you get the right type of racking to suit your needs, and not just a one size fits all product. Here are just a few examples:

Wide Aisle Racking

Wide Aisle Racking is the most popular type of pallet racking. It is highly versatile and easy to modify and relocate, with beam levels fully adjustable in 50mm increments. It is cost effective, quick and easy to install, and allows for the storage of a wide range of different products at the same time. The wide aisles mean that all pallets are easily accessible using standard forklift trucks and without having to use special equipment. In fact, each and every pallet is 100% accessible if placed on Wide Aisle racking.

Very Narrow Aisle

Very Narrow Aisle pallet racking is ideal for warehouses with limited storage space. The narrower aisles between the racking means that floor space is better utilised, giving you a much more efficient storage solution. To access the pallets, narrow aisle forklift trucks must be used, but like the wide aisle racking above, pallets are still 100% accessible and allow for very fast throughput speeds.

Drive In / Drive Through

This type of pallet racking system is designed for storing large amounts of the same products. Pallets are stored behind or on top of each other, maximising storage space. Forklift trucks drive directly into a bay to collect pallets rather than through traditional forklift truck aisles. Drive in has entry and exit all at one end, so pallets are stored on a Last In First Out (LIFO) system, whereas drive through has an entry at one end and an exit at the other, with pallets stored in a First In First Out (FIFO) system. This is not the best solution if you need to access individual pallets, but is perfect for high density, bulk storage.

Dynamic Push Back

This is a Last In First Out (LIFO) system and is also designed for large amounts of identical products. Pallets are loaded from the front and “pushed back” as they are loaded, and when the front pallet is unloaded, the next pallet takes its place. It allows for an excellent use of floor space due to the depth of storage.