Storage and racking are key components to a warehouse that can maximize space, speed throughput, and create a safer work environment. But which storage system is right for your needs?

Racking systems come in a variety of shapes, sizes and styles. Choosing the right one depends on product design, your warehouse’s needs and long-term demands.

Shelving

Shelving is the main type of storage and racking system used in warehouses. It is also the main way that people store small items in homes and offices.

Shelves are generally made of metal, although wood can also be used in some cases. Steel shelving is commonly used in industrial settings because of its durability and weight capacity per shelf.

Wire shelving is another popular type of storage and racking. It is available in a wide range of styles, colors, and finishes.

In addition to providing storage, wire shelves can be used as visual merchandising tools to display clothing or other items in stores. They are also frequently used in libraries as utility shelving.

Shelving is an essential part of library practice. It is important to ensure that shelvers are adequately motivated to undertake the task. It is a daily routine that must not be neglected.

Drive-in or drive-through racking

Drive-in or drive-through racking is a storage and racking solution that requires less aisle space than other shelving systems. It is also ideal for storing large quantities of products in a small amount of warehouse space.

This system is most commonly used in cooler and freezer facilities where product must be stored in a dense manner several pallets deep to maximize storage density. It is also a good option for storing low-turnover inventory.

Loading and retrieval occurs according to the LiFO (last-in first-out) inventory method, which works well for perishables or other goods that require regular stock rotation.

Unlike other types of racking, drive-in racks are designed to have a deep lane for forklift access. This allows warehouse personnel to better optimize their density storage, reducing operational costs and maximizing the use of floor space.

Typical drive-in racks have lanes between 6-8 pallets deep, but it can be customized to fit your needs. A properly optimized system can reduce square footage requirements by up to 75%.

Drive-in or drive-through pallet racking

Drive-in or drive-through pallet racking is an incredibly efficient, space saving, high density storage solution. It allows you to reduce overall square footage requirements by up to 35%, compared to standard selective pallet racking systems.

This system is perfect for facilities that need to store a large number of products in a smaller space, such as freezers. It is also a good choice for small warehouses and other tight spaces that do not have enough room to fit a conventional rack system.

Forklifts load and unload goods from a single entrance, allowing for last in/first out loading and pulling. This arrangement is beneficial for older stock that needs to move out sooner, or if regular rotation is required.

This style of racking is designed to focus on storage density over selectivity, so it's ideal for fast moving products that need to be stored several pallets deep. It can also help you optimise your warehouse and save fuel costs and heating and cooling expenses.

Drive-in or drive-through bin racking

Drive-in or drive-through bin racking is one of the most space-efficient storage solutions available. It is often used for high-density product storage, as well as in freezer and cooler applications.

Unlike selective systems, these types of racks store loads in a bottom-to-top, back-to-front sequence to maximize storage space. They also eliminate the need for multiple access aisles, freeing up more floor space.

Aside from being a very efficient storage solution, drive-in and drive-through racking can be used to store products with short shelf lives or for inventory that needs consistent rotation. These types of racking are ideal for warehouses that need high-density storage and a FIFO (First In, First Out) system for stock rotation.

This type of racking is commonly used in warehouses with limited space and where the cost of building floor space is high. These systems are typically used for food, beverage, and other non-perishable goods. They are also good for storing goods that may be damaged by exposure and forklift traffic, such as metal products.

Author:

Kerry C.

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