When you are planning a warehouse you will be looking for a method of storage that is safe, easy to use, and maximises your use of the available space. Fortunately, there are a number of different types of warehouse pallet racking available to suit the various circumstances that may arise, and this short article we consider a couple of Dynamic Pallet Racking options that are available to you.
Dynamic pallet racking (also known as Live Storage) is not a cheap option, but you may want to consider it if space is at a premium and you regularly handle perishable goods. It is a versatile storage method, and comes in a number of forms. Put simply, it should enable you to control warehousing costs by enabling you to fit more goods in the available space, whilst at the same time facilitating easy fork truck access.
Types Of Dynamic Racking
Push Back Pallet Racking
Whereas most warehouse pallet racking systems utilise rows of racking across the width of the warehouse, push back pallet racking is a form of dynamic pallet racking that makes better use of the available space by employing the depth of the warehouse space.
The racking contains a series of tracks, mounted at an angle. Pallets are stored on wheeled carts, and the first row is placed onto the tracks across the available space. However, when it comes to storing the second row of goods the first row is pushed back and the second row becomes the front row. This process continues, and as the rows are stored a block of pallets is formed. As there are fewer aisles less space is wasted, and so more goods are accommodated.
When it comes to the removal of goods stored in this way, the pallets on the front row are accessed first, and as these are removed the rows behind move forward along the tracks to fill the space. Thus, this method is a good one if you want a last in first out pallet racking system.
If you want a first in first out pallet racking system and space is at a premium, you will need to consider another option.
Pallet Flow Racking
Pallet flow warehouse racking is another dynamic pallet racking system, designed to maximise the amount of goods stored in your warehouse. Depending on the size, perishability and scale of the goods, this may also be known as Carton Live or Pallet Live Racking.
In this system the pallets are mounted on rails, which are set at a gradient. The gradient can be adjusted depending on the nature of goods being stored. Gravity causes the pallets to travel along the rails to their storage position, and as in the case of push back pallet racking, the goods are stored in a block.
Pallet flow racking is versatile, being capable of use as a first in first out, or a last in first out system, depending which side of the storage block you unload from.
These are just two types of dynamic pallet racking, but there are many more. Safety is key with dynamic pallet racking as you are dealing with a number of moving parts If you are investing in this type of system you need to have a vigilant safety regime in place. This should involve a strict internal inspection and reporting regime to deal with any damaged components, and the keeping of accurate records of these events. As well as this, you need regular external inspections, and to ensure that any faults or damage to your warehouse pallet racking installation are rectified without delay.
Why would I use Dynamic Pallet Racking?
- Perfect for perishable products and fast turnaround goods
- Works on a first in: first out basis meaning there is automated stock rotation
- Minimum movement needed by forklifts to handle the flow of goods
- Low maintenance
- High performance
- Space saving
- Ease of control and organisation
- High turnover
- Versatile
- Efficient use of space
- Improved productivity
- Good accessibility
Before selecting they type of pallet racking you need for your warehouse you should carefully examine the costs and benefits involved. The best way to do this is to consult an expert in the field, such as Pallet Racking Systems Ltd in Willenhall, contact our team of experts are always more than happy to assist you.
For more information, please call Pallet Racking Systems Limited on 0800 085 8117.