Selecting the Appropriate Storage Solution for Your Warehouse.
10 October 2019
The best way to maximise storage and get the most out of your storage solution is to install a system specifically designed to suit your needs. Before selecting a racking system, we recommend following a few steps.
The type of pallet racking you require will be determined by the space and height of the building, the number of pallets, volume, size and weight of each pallet to be stored, throughput and type of materials handling equipment. APC manufactures a broad range of pallet racking and custom steel structures designed to meet different industrial applications.
Design and layout
Before selecting a storage system, you should have a practical floor plan in mind. A floor plan will help determine the use of floor and vertical space, inventory access, docking locations and shipping areas. A practical floor plan should determine the number of pallets you will store and how much floor space is available. Additionally, a floor plan will help you identify unchangeable factors such as doors and other obstructions that you may need to work around. APC can work with you to design a system to make the best use of finite space.
Selectivity
Establishing your throughput rate and volume of each product will help determine the type of system you require. If you have a low turnover of stock with a large variation in product lines, Selective Pallet Racking could be ideal. On the other hand, if you have many pallets of the same SKU, a high-density option such as Drive-In Racking might be more cost-effective. Alternatively, you might require a combination of selective and high-density solutions. The environment may also play a significant factor in the type of pallet racking you select. For example, when it comes to cold room and freezer storage, a high-density storage system such as Satellite Racking or Drive-In Racking will be more economical opposed to Selective Pallet Racking.
FIFO or LIFO
The functionality of each pallet racking system will depend on its design. It is important to understand the most appropriate rack system for your inventory before choosing one. In the case of first-in, last-out (LIFO) inventory control system, Double Deep Pallet Racking and Drive-In Racking are most suitable. Conversely, storage units like Narrow Aisle Racking, Pallet Live Storage, Carton Live Storage and Selective Pallet Racking are best for first-in, first-out (FIFO) inventory systems.
Automation/mobile
You may want to consider automation to increase storage capacity and reduce warehouse labour. APC can install a number of semi-automated systems such as Satellite Racking as well as work with system integrators to design purpose-built racking structures for automated storage and retrieval systems.
Forklift Access
Different racking systems work with different materials handling equipment. Hence, this will need to be considered. For example, if your current forklift can only reach 4m in height, there wouldn’t be much point in having 6m pallet racking unless you intend on purchasing a new forklift. APC can help you identify which system works best with your existing materials handling equipment or advise you on what equipment is required for what pallet racking system you purchase.
Not all racking is made equal, so it is important to choose an experienced, reputable and licensed manufacturer. Additionally, a great way to maintain your pallet racking system is to make use of APC's range of protection products which include racking guards and frames.
It is important to make the most of your money by investing in a durable, made to the last system. You may also want to plan for future growth by selecting a system which can be easily customised to accommodate changes in your product range. With years of experience and expertise, APC can help you select the right racking system for your warehouse operations. Get in touch with us today.
