How Many Types Of Racking Are There?

The Basics of Racking Systems

When it comes to storage solutions for warehouses, retail stores, or any other industry that requires efficient and effective space management, racking systems are essential. Racking is a crucial component of any storage facility as it provides a structure for organizing and storing goods, materials, or products. There are a variety of racking systems available on the market, each designed to suit different storage needs and requirements. In this article, we will explore the different types of racking systems available and their unique features and benefits.

Pallet Racking Systems

Pallet racking systems are one of the most common types of racking used in warehouses and storage facilities. These systems are designed to store palletized goods and materials and are typically made up of vertical upright frames, horizontal beams, and pallet supports. Pallet racking systems come in various configurations, such as selective racking, drive-in racking, and push back racking, each offering different advantages based on the specific storage needs of the facility.

Selective racking is the most common type of pallet racking system and allows for direct access to each pallet stored on the rack. This makes it ideal for facilities with a high volume of different products that require frequent access. Drive-in racking, on the other hand, is designed for high-density storage and allows forklifts to drive directly into the rack to retrieve pallets. This system maximizes storage space but may not be suitable for facilities with a large number of SKUs. Push back racking is a dynamic storage solution that uses gravity-fed carts to store pallets, allowing for high-density storage while still providing easy access to each pallet.

Carton Flow Racking Systems

Carton flow racking systems are designed for warehouses or distribution centers that handle a high volume of small to medium-sized products, such as cartons or cases. These systems use gravity rollers or wheels to move products along the rack, allowing for efficient picking and restocking processes. Carton flow racking is ideal for facilities with high SKU variety and a need for fast-paced order fulfillment. It helps maximize storage space and improve inventory management by ensuring products are easily accessible and organized.

One of the key benefits of carton flow racking systems is their ability to facilitate high-volume order picking operations. By using gravity to move products along the rack, these systems help reduce labor costs and increase overall efficiency in the warehouse. Additionally, carton flow racking systems can be customized to accommodate different product sizes and weights, making them a versatile storage solution for a wide range of industries.

Cantilever Racking Systems

Cantilever racking systems are designed for storing long, bulky, or irregularly shaped items that cannot be accommodated by traditional pallet racking systems. These systems feature arms that extend from a vertical column, providing a clear span for storing items such as lumber, pipes, or furniture. Cantilever racking is commonly used in industries such as construction, furniture manufacturing, and retail, where long or oversized items need to be stored securely and accessed easily.

One of the primary advantages of cantilever racking systems is their flexibility and adaptability to different storage needs. The open design of cantilever racks allows for easy loading and unloading of items, making them ideal for facilities with a high turnover of inventory. Additionally, cantilever racking systems can be customized with different arm lengths and load capacities to accommodate a variety of products, making them a versatile storage solution for warehouses with unique storage requirements.

Drive-In Racking Systems

Drive-in racking systems are a high-density storage solution that maximizes storage space by eliminating aisles between rows of racks. These systems are designed for storing a large volume of homogeneous products that do not require individual access. Drive-in racking works on a first-in, last-out (FILO) basis, where pallets are loaded and retrieved from the same side of the rack. This system is ideal for facilities with a high volume of the same product or SKUs and limited storage space.

One of the main benefits of drive-in racking systems is their ability to maximize storage capacity by utilizing vertical space more efficiently. By eliminating aisles between racks, drive-in racking can store more pallets in a smaller footprint, making it a cost-effective solution for warehouses with limited floor space. Additionally, drive-in racking systems are highly customizable and can be configured to accommodate different pallet sizes and weights, providing a versatile storage option for various industries.

Mobile Racking Systems

Mobile racking systems are a unique storage solution that allows racks to move along tracks installed in the floor. These systems use mechanical or electrical systems to move racks sideways, creating access aisles only when and where needed. Mobile racking is ideal for facilities with limited floor space or varying temperature requirements, as it maximizes storage capacity and provides better control over inventory storage conditions.

One of the key advantages of mobile racking systems is their ability to increase storage capacity by up to 80% compared to traditional static racking systems. By compacting racks and creating movable aisles, mobile racking systems optimize available space and improve warehouse efficiency. Additionally, mobile racking systems offer improved safety and security by preventing unauthorized access to stored items and reducing the risk of accidents in the warehouse.

In conclusion, racking systems are an essential component of any storage facility and play a critical role in maximizing storage capacity, organizing inventory, and improving warehouse efficiency. With a variety of racking systems available on the market, it is important to understand the unique features and benefits of each type to determine the best solution for your storage needs. Whether you require high-density storage, easy access to products, or customized storage solutions, there is a racking system available to meet your requirements. Consider the specific needs of your facility and consult with a racking system expert to determine the most suitable system for your storage needs.