Understanding The Various Types Of Industrial Racking Systems

When it comes to optimizing warehouse space and improving efficiency, having the right industrial racking system in place is crucial. From selective racking to cantilever racking, there are various types of industrial racking systems available on the market. Each type has its benefits and is designed for specific storage needs. In this article, we will delve into the different types of industrial racking systems to help you understand their unique features and applications.

Selective Racking

Selective racking is one of the most common types of industrial racking systems used in warehouses. It is a versatile storage solution that allows for easy access to individual pallets. With selective racking, pallets are stored one deep, creating multiple aisles for picking and replenishment. This type of racking is ideal for fast-moving inventory and high turnover products.

Selective racking is available in various configurations, including single-deep, double-deep, and push back racking. Single-deep racking is the most common configuration and provides direct access to each pallet. Double-deep racking doubles the storage capacity by storing two pallets deep. Push back racking allows for deeper storage by using a system of carts that slide along inclined rails.

Pallet Flow Racking

Pallet flow racking is a dynamic storage system that uses gravity to move pallets along dedicated lanes. This type of racking is ideal for warehouses with high-density storage needs and a first-in, first-out (FIFO) inventory rotation system. Pallet flow racking maximizes storage space by utilizing vertical space and automatically rotating stock.

Pallet flow racking consists of slightly inclined lanes equipped with rollers or wheels that allow pallets to flow from the loading end to the unloading end. As pallets are taken from the unloading end, new pallets are loaded at the other end, ensuring continuous product rotation. This type of racking is beneficial for environments with high SKU counts and perishable goods.

Drive-In Racking

Drive-in racking is a high-density storage solution that maximizes warehouse space by eliminating aisles between storage bays. This type of racking is designed for storing large quantities of the same SKU and is ideal for seasonal or bulk storage. Drive-in racking works on a last-in, first-out (LIFO) inventory rotation system.

In drive-in racking, pallets are loaded and unloaded from the same side using a forklift, which drives into the storage bay to access the pallets. This eliminates the need for aisles and allows for more efficient use of space. Drive-in racking is suitable for warehouses with low inventory turnover and a large number of pallets of the same product.

Cantilever Racking

Cantilever racking is a specialized storage solution designed for long, bulky, or irregularly shaped items that cannot be stored on traditional pallet racking systems. This type of racking is commonly used in lumber yards, hardware stores, and manufacturing facilities for storing items such as lumber, pipes, and furniture.

Cantilever racking consists of upright columns with horizontal arms that extend out to support the load. The open design of cantilever racking allows for easy loading and unloading of long items without the need for vertical obstructions. Cantilever racking can be customized with varying arm lengths and load capacities to accommodate different types of inventory.

Push Back Racking

Push back racking is a high-density storage system that utilizes a series of nested carts to store pallets. This type of racking is ideal for warehouse operations with limited space and a need for efficient use of vertical space. Push back racking operates on a last-in, first-out (LIFO) inventory rotation system.

Push back racking works by placing pallets on nested carts, which are pushed back along inclined rails as new pallets are loaded. The system allows for multiple pallets to be stored deep while maintaining easy access to each SKU. Push back racking is commonly used for storing seasonal items, bulk goods, and fast-moving inventory.

In conclusion, having a thorough understanding of the various types of industrial racking systems is essential for optimizing warehouse efficiency and maximizing storage space. Each type of racking system has its unique features and applications, making it important to choose the right system based on your specific storage needs. Whether you opt for selective racking, pallet flow racking, drive-in racking, cantilever racking, or push back racking, investing in the right industrial racking system can make a significant impact on your warehouse operations.