3 Popular Pallet Racking Systems

Anyone involved in the logistics industry understands the critical role that storage plays in the smooth functioning of their operations. An efficient storage system can significantly boost productivity, streamline operations, and enhance the overall functionality of your warehouse. One such efficient storage solution is a pallet racking system.

These systems come in several different kinds, each designed to meet varied warehousing needs. Here are three popular types of pallet racking systems and an overview of their unique benefits and potential drawbacks.

1. Double Deep Racking

Double-deep pallet racking is a type of racking used to maximize warehouse space. The primary difference from conventional selective pallet racking is the implementation of two rows for racking storage rather than one. Because of the increased storage density, this is a good choice for uses involving large quantities of a single stock item.

Using double-deep pallet racks, you can store more materials. Compared to conventional selective racking systems, its increased storage density is a result of its use of two rows for storage. This makes it a great option for general manufacturing, food and beverage, and other warehouses that handle a high quantity of pallets per store keeping unit (SKU).

However, only half of the pallets in double-deep racking are within reach, reducing pick selectivity. This limits its applicability to Last-In, First-Out (LIFO) systems, which prioritize using the newest items first, rather than First-In, First-Out (FIFO) systems that prioritize using the oldest items first.

The double-deep racks necessitate a special double-reach forklift to efficiently store and retrieve pallets. If this is not currently a standard piece of warehouse machinery, it can increase costs.

2. Selective Racking

The most common and flexible type of pallet racking in warehouses is selective racking, often called single-deep racking. It enables you immediate access to every pallet without the need to relocate other pallets, making it easier to pack, remove, and manage inventory. No specialist machinery is required to access the shelves on this rack system.

Selective pallet racking provides a straightforward and cost-effective design. It has the lowest cost per square foot of any pallet racking system, making it affordable even for small firms. However, its storage density is lower than that of other racking designs since it needs wider lanes for forklifts to pass through.

For businesses with a high volume of small-batch products, slow inventory turnover, and a FIFO system, selective pallet racking is the best option. Common users include those in the manufacturing, retail, clothing, food and beverages, and pharmaceutical sectors.

Selective pallet racking, while often the best choice, is not always the case. Alternative racking methods may be preferable for businesses with a substantial amount of pallets per SKU and minimal warehouse space.

3. Drive-In Pallet Racking

Drive-in pallet racking is a form of high-density storage that allows forklifts to enter and depart a warehouse along a single aisle. This eliminates the need for workers to travel down aisles to place or collect materials and makes it possible for forklifts to drive straight into the racks.

The most efficient use of this technique is in LIFO procedures, where the final loaded pallet becomes the first pallet readily available.

This racking configuration is great for companies that need to maximize their storage capacity yet have a smaller warehouse. By doing away with aisles, warehouses may better utilize their space, and forklifts can access more levels of storage for loading and retrieving pallets.

The LIFO method relegates older stock to the back of the warehouse. This results in less selectiveness and potentially more frequent pallet handling. Damage to the racks and the pallets is therefore a real possibility due to the forklifts' constant contact with the racks.

When using drive-in pallet racking, it is better to store items that do not require regular selection and have a constant pallet size. It is also not a good fit for items that spoil quickly or have a high turnover rate. To further improve storage efficiency, forklift operators should be attentive and disciplined when stacking pallets to prevent underutilized space.

Contact us at Warehouse Equipment Solutions to browse through a selection of equipment for your pallet racking system.