Pallet Racking: 5 Key Benefits to Boost Warehouse Storage

Optimize Warehouse Function with the Right Pallet Racking Solutions

Warehouse safety and efficiency are two key factors contributing to running a smooth warehouse operation. Every inch/square foot in a warehouse is precious real estate, so maximizing each bit of space – horizontal and vertical- is important. Pallet racking offers several benefits, including space optimization, increased worker safety, efficient inventory management, inventory protection, and adaptability. Learn more about each of the benefits below. 

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5 Benefits of Pallet Racking for Inventory Storage

1. Use warehouse space most efficiently – floor space is a precious and limited commodity in a warehouse; therefore, making the best possible use of it is functionally and economically essential. But more than maximizing your horizontal space, shift your thinking to total cube space by including vertical space as well. Picking the most efficient pallet racking system for your unique inventory and operational needs will provide you with maximum upright storage capacity and productivity.
2. Keep your workers safe – Decrease the number of worker injuries with pallet racking vs. floor stacking. Storing inventory in durable pallet racking creates a safer work area for pedestrians and lift equipment in a busy warehouse by minimizing clutter and improving sightlines and traffic patterns. 
3. Efficient inventory management – Reduce travel and search time by organizing SKUs within custom-fit pallet racking. Pallet racking enables the storage of items in an organized way that creates an efficient workflow and accurate picking process.
4. Protect your inventory – A pallet racking system keeps products off the floor and offers safe protection on shelves. This reduces the amount of lost and damaged inventory and decreases the associated overhead cost. 
5. Opportunity to expand – As your business grows and or inventory specs change, your pallet racking can afford you the room to expand operations and increase inventory capacity. Pallet racking systems can be reconfigured or added onto if there is available space which may give you just the breathing room you need to remain in your existing facility.

Now that we’ve covered the major benefits of pallet racking, here is an overview of the major types of racking systems. Take a look at the different types and their ideal uses.  

Types of Pallet Racking Systems

• Selective – Economical, single pallet deep storage racking. Offers 100% SKU selectivity and quick, efficient pallet storage and retrieval.
• Push-back racking – Dynamic high-density LIFO storage. Single SKU lanes use wheeled enveloping carts on slightly inclined rails to store up to six pallets deep per lane. Push-back is loaded and extracted from the same aisle. Rear pallets flow forward automatically as pallets are extracted.
• Gravity flow storage racking – There are two types of gravity flow rack: carton (case) flow and pallet flow. Carton flow rack is ideal for storing case, tote, and each items. It maximizes pick locations into a consolidated area, decreasing travel time and improving putaway and picking efficiency. Pallet flow rack is ideal for palletized or crated inventory. It’s a flexible system that can be floor-mounted or used within racking for multi-level, high-density storage. Gravity flow rack loads and extracts from separate aisles, keeping pedestrians and forklifts segregated for a safer work area.
• Drive-in & drive-thru pallet racking – High-density storage for high-volume inventory with a low number of SKUs. Forklifts drive into SKU-specific storage lanes to load and extract pallets. Two cautions on drive-in are the possibility of honeycombing (empty pallet spots) if not optimized for the correct type of inventory and the high forklift impact potential. Working with a trusted rack design team can mitigate these challenges. 
• Cantilever racking – A better and safer way to store long, bulky, and odd-shaped items such as pipes, timber, tubing, and furniture. Cantilever is easy to reprofile and is a good indoor or outdoor storage rack resource. Accessories such as roofing and pipe stops can help protect inventory from weather damage and falling of the ends of extended arms.
• VNA pallet racking – Optimizes space with aisles as narrow as 5’, dramatically boosting storage capacity.
• Mobile aisle pallet racking – Mobile pallet racking is ideal to compact and cube out warehouse space in freezers, cold storage facilities, and distribution warehouses. Mobile aisle rack utilizes all aisle space by using mobile carriages that move along rails to close the aisles between racks to maximize the cubic storage space. 
• Pallet Rack Accessories – Rack guarding protects vulnerable components from forklift damage while providing an extra level of safety. Rack back netting or wire safety panels prevent material from falling off the rack levels, and backstop beams prevent pallets from being pushed through the rack.

Let WOI Help You to Improve Your Warehouse Efficiency

The ability to run a more efficient warehouse awaits you. Let WOI design the custom pallet racking solution for your warehousing needs. Our full-service approach ensures innovative design and expert installation. 

The WOI team offers over 180 years of combined material handling experience to make your space work for you to solve your warehousing challenges. Moreover, we are determined to deliver 100% Customer Satisfaction on each project through our Total Satisfaction Experience™ (TSE). 

The Total Satisfaction Experience focuses on five essential customer experiences:

1. We will listen to your needs
2. Execute your project with particular attention to your unique application
3. Stick to project timelines
4. Ensure a safe environment
5.  Pay close attention to the detail of the finished product

Our professional installation team ensures that the finished product meets your expectations, and while we are on the job, you can be sure that we follow strict safety protocols.

Industry Experienced Installation Team

• OSHA Trained & Certified
• Certified Drug-Free Workplace
• Licensed General Contractor
• Job Safety Analysis
• Forklift, Scissor Lift, and Aerial Lift Operator Trained

The Timeless Relevance of Pallet Racking in Modern Warehouses

In the age of digital transformation, with warehouses integrating state-of-the-art robotics and IoT-driven systems, one might assume traditional storage solutions are becoming obsolete. Over the last decade, material handling processes have indeed evolved with the rise of automated technology. But amidst this tech-driven evolution, a consistent truth emerges: no matter how advanced the modern warehouse becomes, traditional pallet rack solutions will always have their place within the material handling environment.

Let’s delve into why, despite technological advancements, pallet racking continues to hold its ground in contemporary warehousing.

The Steady Benefits of Pallet Racking

Across various industries, pallet racking has proven its value time and again. Its enduring popularity isn’t just down to tradition; it brings tangible benefits to the warehousing and logistics sector.

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1. Cost-Efficiency

   One of the most immediate advantages of pallet racking is the potential for cost savings. By optimizing storage space and reducing the footprint needed for inventory, businesses can potentially save on property rental or purchase costs. Additionally, an efficient racking system can lead to reduced labor costs due to faster and more streamlined operations.

2. Flexibility

   Pallet racking systems are inherently modular. They can be adjusted, expanded, or reconfigured to accommodate changing inventory and operational needs.

3. Durability and Longevity

   Pallet racking systems are designed to withstand years, if not decades, of reliable use. However, external factors, such as forklift damage, can impact their lifespan. Regular inspections and proactive maintenance are crucial for safety, extending the system’s life, and maintaining efficiency.

Which Solution is Best for Your Operation: Pallet Racking or Automation?

While both automated storage solutions and traditional pallet racking have their advantages, there are specific scenarios and factors that make pallet racking a compelling choice for certain businesses:

1. Cost-Benefit Analysis

   For some businesses, especially smaller operations or those with lower inventory turnover, the benefits of automation might not justify the costs. In such scenarios, pallet racking can offer a balanced solution that provides adequate storage efficiency without the added complexities and expenses of automation.

2. Budgetary Constraints

   Automated systems often involve a higher initial capital investment. For businesses working with a tight budget or seeking a quicker return on investment, pallet racking can offer an efficient storage solution without the significant upfront costs.

3. Expedited Implementation

   Implementing a pallet racking system can be faster compared to integrating a full-scale automated solution. For businesses needing immediate storage solutions, this can be a deciding factor.

Crucially, the debate isn’t about whether pallet racking or automated technology is universally superior. It boils down to pinpointing what resonates with the particularities of a given operation. Engaging with seasoned experts, like the team at Twinlode, can guide you toward well-informed choices, shaping storage solutions that match your warehouse operation’s unique requirements.

A Future with Pallet Racking

The supply chain’s evolution demands efficiency and adaptability, and while automation plays a pivotal role, the foundational significance of pallet racking can’t be overshadowed. Conventional methods of warehouse racking offers a blend of practicality, durability, and flexibility that few storage solutions can match.

Navigate The Future Of Warehousing With Twinlode’s Expertise

As the warehousing landscape evolves, staying ahead requires a combination of tradition and modern innovation. With Twinlode’s expertise, you’ll have access to strategies tailored to your specific warehousing requirements. By harnessing both historical insights and anticipating future trends, Twinlode is prepared to design your next storage and material handling systems to elevate your operations. Reach out and schedule a call with Twinlode to unlock the full potential of your warehouse.

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