When it comes to fulfilling orders for clients, they want items fast, and they want them now.
In fact, over half of British shoppers say same-day delivery is important to them.
Whether you're B2B or B2C, one of the ways you can improve processes in your warehouse or factory is by using pallet racking. This type of racking system makes it easy for warehouse operatives to find and retrieve products, saving time and making your business more efficient.
If you're not sure if a racking system for pallets is right for your business, we've put together this comprehensive guide. Join us as we look at the benefits of pallet racking and which system is the right fit for your business needs.
And, of course, if you have any additional queries about pallet racking, get in touch with our skilled team – we're always happy to answer your questions.
What is pallet racking?
What are the benefits of a racking system for pallets?
- It maximises your space
- It allows you to become more efficient
- It's safer
- It's more cost-effective
Which pallet racking system is the right one for me?
- Conventional/adjustable pallet racking
- Push back racking
- Narrow/very narrow aisle pallet racking
- Drive in, drive through racking
- Mobile pallet racking
Which type of pallet racking should I choose for my business?
Racking + Shelving Limited: your storage solutions specialist
What is pallet racking?
A pallet racking system is designed to hold and organise pallets – wooden boards that can easily be moved and transported by a forklift or pallet jack.
Pallet racking systems hold and organise these pallets, taking advantage of the vertical space in a warehouse or factory to store as many products as possible.
There are different types of pallet racking available, and we'll look at these in more detail later in the article.
What are the benefits of a racking system for pallets?
When you're just starting out, it might be tempting to store all your items on shelves. While this is a simple and affordable solution, it's not ideal for large, heavy, or unusually sized products. Plus, as most items need to be retrieved by ladder, it's not ideal from a health and safety perspective.
A pallet racking system can make your warehouse or factory more efficient, meaning more scope to grow in the future. Here are just some of the reasons why a well-designed pallet racking system can take your business to the next level:
It maximises your space
The critical benefit of pallet racking is that you can store upwards and take advantage of vertical space in your building that would otherwise remain unused.
This means you can increase your stock level capacity and offer a more comprehensive product range to customers and clients.
It allows you to become more efficient
When you have a large warehouse with a lot of products, it can be hard to know what is where.
It's estimated that warehouse pickers spend 60% of their time walking around a warehouse, time that could be put to better use.
A pallet racking system makes it easier to keep track of where products are and manage stock levels. This enables your team to be faster and more proactive, providing a better service to customers.
It's safer
Earlier, we mentioned that using ladders in a warehouse environment can be dangerous. In 2021/2022, there were over 500 injuries from falling off a ladder in the workplace.
Pallet racking systems are more effective at keeping warehouse operatives safe because they don't have to climb ladders. Not only this but because products are better organised, there are fewer trip hazards.
It's more cost-effective
A pallet racking system allows you to take advantage of vertical space, which means you can continue to use your existing warehouse as your business grows.
As a result, there are no additional costs for expanding your existing space or moving to a larger warehouse.
Which pallet racking system is the right one for me?
There are different types of racking systems for pallets, and it's important to identify which one is right for your business needs. Here are some of the most commonly used storage systems.
Conventional/adjustable pallet racking
This type of racking is the one most people think of when they think of pallet racking – simple metal shelving designed to store pallets.
This pallet racking is easy to install and affordable; however it lacks the unique functionality of the other types of pallet racking available.
Push back racking
Push back racking uses the 'last in, first out', or LIFO, storage method. The pallets are placed on trays, and when one is removed, it is replaced with another.
Push back racking is ideal if you have a smaller warehouse, as you can store a lot of items in a smaller space. However, only the pallets at the front are directly accessible, which may cause logistical problems.
Narrow/very narrow aisle pallet racking
This type of pallet racking is ideal for warehouses and factories where space is at a premium. It can save up to 40% of space compared to other types of pallet racking.
While the key benefit of this type of racking is that it saves a lot of space, it can be expensive. As well as the racking itself, specialist equipment is needed to handle narrow aisle pallet racking. For example, you may find that your existing forklifts can't fit in these compact spaces.
Drive in, drive through racking
Drive in, drive through racking is designed so forklifts can drive directly into the bays, reducing the need for aisles, with one exit and entrance.
This type of pallet racking is cost-effective and easy to use, especially if you need to store identical products in bulk. However, if you need to store a range of different products, this setup may be too simplistic for your needs.
Mobile pallet racking
Mobile pallet racking is similar to push back racking, but pallets are placed on mobile bases and guided through fixed tracks on the ground
This pallet racking system is good for when space is limited, and it can be moved around as needed. However, it relies on many electric motors and moving parts, meaning it has a higher chance of malfunctioning and damage.
Which type of pallet racking should I choose for my business?
It's important to choose the right type of pallet racking for your warehouse or factory. Consider the following factors:
- Your budget – some types of pallet racking are more affordable than others. Remember to consider the return on investment; it's better to install one slightly more expensive system than two or three more affordable systems over the course of your business's lifespan
- The amount of space you have – both horizontally and vertically. Consider your ceiling height, floor space, and the placement of immovable architecture like columns
- The type of products you need to store – your pallet racking needs to accommodate the weight, dimensions, and any special requirements
- The frequency you need to access products – if you need to access items on a daily basis, this will affect the type of racking you choose
- Scalability – how do you see your warehouse or factory changing and growing over time? You need a system that can flex with your requirements
Remember that it's good to mix and match – you can have two or three different types of pallet racking in your warehouse or factory, depending on your requirements.
It might be the case that other types of racking and storage are the best options for your needs.
For example, if you have very high ceilings, a mezzanine floor can give you an extra level of storage space. Cantilever racking is a valuable alternative to pallet racking when you have unusually shaped items like tyres and rolls of carpet.
A professional storage solutions provider like Racking + Shelving Limited will work with you to determine the correct setup for your specific business needs.
Racking + Shelving Limited: your storage solutions specialist
A well-planned and installed pallet racking system can transform how your business functions.
Not only does your warehouse or factory become more organised, but you can stock a broader range of products – all while keeping your warehouse operatives safe.
We have over twenty years of experience providing intelligent storage systems to organisations all across the UK. Our team of experts will visit your business and identify the right combination of pallet shelving products to improve functionality and optimise the space you already have.
Discover more about our
comprehensive pallet racking solutions
and get in touch for your custom-designed storage solution today.
