A definition of warehouse racking system

An essential part of warehouse infrastructure, warehouse racking system can hinder or accelerate warehouse operations. With proper warehouse racking, warehouse managers maximize space and optimize warehouse organization for efficiency and a streamlined picking process. Warehouse layout plays a major role in warehouse racking, as aisle width, docking locations, shipping areas, and other warehouse components affect warehouse racking options.

If you buy our warehouse storage rack systems, we can provide good after service. And we can also give you some advice when using our warehouse storage rack systems.

Warehousing and Racking Terms Definitions

Pallet

A flat structure used to store and centralize goods in the supply chain. Pallets are made of materials such as wood or plastic. Depending on the country and industry, pallets are available in different sizes and configurations (two-way and four-way entry).

Palletized Unit Load

A palletized unit load is defined as one or more items secured to a pallet or rails so that they can be handled and stored as a single unit.

System/Pallet Racking System

Pallet racking system refers to a group of carefully designed and constructed racking components that are organized into a self-contained whole for the storage and organization of palletized goods within a warehouse or storage facility. The system is typically composed of an upright frame, horizontal beams, and a variety of optional accessories such as mesh, support bars, and safety devices, all of which are designed to provide efficient and convenient storage for pallets. The design of the racking system will determine the type, size, and weight of pallets that can be stored.

Cantilever racking

A racking structure with cantilever arms used to horizontally support long, bulky items such as pipes, lumber, carpet rolls, etc. The horizontal arms are attached to the vertical posts by welds, bolts, or brackets. This type of racking is not suitable for palletized goods; however, it can provide practical but low-density storage. In cantilever racking, the stored items are relatively easy to access. Because the cantilever arms extend from the structure, these items are easily damaged by forklifts.

Drive-in racking

Drive-in racking systems allow forklifts to reach deep into the rack to place and retrieve goods, allowing for high-density storage. The load-bearing beams at the bottom of the racking structure run through the entire racking system. Loading and unloading of the same racking area is done in the same service aisle and uses a last-in, first-out (LIFO) system. Forklift operators must be proficient in loading and unloading operations due to the high risk of collision.

Mobile racking

Mobile racking systems are very similar in structure to static racking, but can be moved. These compact, space-saving racks are usually powered and mounted on a track system that allows the entire row of goods to be moved. The racks remain compact until the goods need to be accessed. This creates a service aisle between the rows of goods. Mobile systems are good for maximizing storage space, but they have a higher initial installation cost.

Pallet racking

Pallet racking, commonly referred to as pallet racking systems, is a specialized industrial storage solution designed to efficiently store and manage large quantities of goods, products and materials on pallets within warehouses, distribution centers and manufacturing plants. These racking systems are designed to optimize space utilization while facilitating the orderly storage and retrieval of palletized items. One of the main advantages of pallet racking is its adaptability. The modular design of these systems allows the beam height and configuration to be easily adjusted to accommodate different sizes and quantities of items. Forklifts or other compatible lifting equipment are typically used to load and retrieve pallets, allowing for efficient movement of goods within the racking system.

Pallet Flow Racking

This racking system is dynamic and utilizes gravity. Similar to a conveyor system, pallet flow paths are mounted at a slight angle to allow for the storage of multiple pallets per level. In addition, brakes are used to control the speed of the pallets. In this system, loading and unloading of goods occurs on both sides of the racking structure, from two different service aisles.

Push-Back Racking

This racking system is dynamic and utilizes gravity. Horizontal aisles are mounted at a slight angle, allowing for the storage of deep pallets (up to 6 pallets). Loading and unloading occurs at one end, from the same service aisle. As pallets are loaded, they push the other pallets in the same row back.

Pallet racking comes in many different types and designs to meet specific functions or create specific advantages. To create the ideal pallet racking system, the following points should be considered:

1.Desired storage density

2.Building area and building height

3.Placement of building doors and columns

4.Inventory accessibility

5.Inventory rotation

6.Item/load size and weight

7.Optimal storage design

8.Material and installation costs