Is your warehouse like a jigsaw puzzle, with some of the pieces missing and others jammed together? If this describes your storage scenario, then it might be time for reevaluation of space utilization. A good pallet racking system can indeed work wonders in terms of organization and boosting efficiency, but mostly, even safety. How are you going to choose the best among so many types? Don’t be stressed; that is why we’re here to assist you. Let’s walk through this process together.
What Are Pallet Racking Systems?
What is a pallet racking system? It is an optimization routine for how to use horizontal and vertical space as effeciently as possible. Imagine a sturdy structure of upright frames and horizontal joists on top of which the seats on which the pallets will rest, from this perspective. These systems provide great convenience of storage and retrieval of items and these systems can be displayed in rich variety of ways according to the specific needs of each user. The best choice has the most dramatic effect on how a warehouse functions.
Choosing the Right Pallet Racking System
Each warehouse is different so that are the requirements for your storage as well. Here are a few key things to think about:
- Your Space: Measure your warehouse carefully, including how tall the ceilings are and how much floor space you’ve got. A lot of warehouses waste valuable vertical space, so look up -how high can you go?
- What You’re Storing: Are you dealing with lightweight boxes or heavy machinery? Knowing the size, weight, and turnover rate of your inventory will help you pick the right system.
- Accessibility: What frequency does one have to search for something to get to where it is? If it happens all the time, you might want a system like selective racking. Where you do not need to access such items as often, then drive-in or push-back systems might be more appropriate.
- Your Budget: There is a temptation to buy the cheapest option, however, do not forget about durability and efficiency. Upfront investment can be used in turn to avoid major maintenance or replacement in future.
- Safety: This one’s non-negotiable. The system must comply with safety requirements and routine pallet rack inspections such as those mandated in New Jersey are imperative in order to maintain safety.
Popular Pallet Racking Systems
It is not “one-size-fits-all” however, some of the most popular solutions are discussed below:
- Selective Racking: This is the most popular option as it is so flexible. It also provides you direct access to all of your pallets, which is excellent for warehouses that have an array of products.
- Drive-In/Drive-Through Racking: If you’re storing a lot of the same thing, this high-density option lets forklifts drive right into the system to load and unload.
- Push-Back Racking: Appropriate to companies with little storage space, but with medium to high product turnover. Pallettes are stored on sloping rails and therefore move linearly as one of the pallets is removed.
- Pallet Flow Racking: A first in, first out (FIFO) design is a good fix for perishable products. Gravity rollers autonomously move pallets from the rear into the front.
Why Professional Installation Matters
Picking the right system is just the beginning. How it’s installed can make or break your operation. As part of the installation of pallet racks in Philadelphia, consideration should be given to the skill of expert professionals. They will guarantee that everything is set up correctly, thus, you will not take unnecessary risks and will be able to properly exploit your system.
Don’t Skip Maintenance
Once your system is in place, don’t forget about regular upkeep. Over time, wear and tear can cause safety issues. That’s why inspections are so important. In fact, pallet racks in New Jersey not only need to be tested for minor defects (examplea deformed beam or a loosened bolt), but should also be able to detect such defects as early as possible, before they manifest as serious defects.
Let’s Wrap It Up
Choosing an appropriate pallet racking system isn’t a nightmare. However, if you prepare yourself for success with regard to space, inventory, and the way in which you work, then remember that installation, maintenance, and pallet rack inspection in New Jersey are as critical as the system used. With the right setup, your warehouse can run like a well-oiled machine.
Ready to make a change? Contact us today to find the perfect pallet-racking solution for your business!
