Exploring the Different Types of Pallet Racking Systems and Their Benefits

What is Pallet Racking?
Pallet racking is a system that organizes goods on pallets or other auxiliary elements to streamline their storage and transport throughout the supply chain. Initially developed during the Second World War, modern pallet racking is now primarily designed to accommodate heavy loads, playing a pivotal role in various logistics stages of a company.

With a wide variety of pallet types available, the most common are those that comply with standard measurements, aligning perfectly with industrial racking system and forklifts.

The Advantages of Pallet Racking
Pallet racking has numerous benefits, which include:

·         Optimization of loading and unloading times

·         Compacting of goods and efficient use of available space

·         Improved safety in product transport

·         Increased flexibility for transport and handling

·         Simplified stock and inventory control

·         Reduced handling, transport, and storage costs

Choosing Between Selective or Compact Systems

Depending on their specific storage needs and context, companies can choose between two main types of racking systems:  selective storage systems for direct access, and compact storage systems that increase racking density for expanded warehouse capacity. Factors such as the type of product to store, inventory management, stock rotation, and available space can influence this decision.

Types of Pallet Racking
Several types of pallet racking systems can be considered, each with unique characteristics:

1.       Adjustable Pallet Racking - This straightforward system is designed for mechanically storing pallets using forklifts that run parallel to the rows of racking. Its advantages include direct and quick access to all unit loads stored, versatility, and adaptability.

2.       Very Narrow Aisle (VNA) racking - An adaptation of adjustable pallet racking, VNA racking optimizes available warehouse space by reducing the width of work aisles. This system requires special narrow aisle forklifts.

3.       Double Deep Pallet Racking - This system increases storage capacity by adding an extra position for pallets at the back of the racking, storing unit loads at 2 depths. It offers increased storage capacity but less selectivity or direct access.

4.       Drive-In and Drive-Through Compact Systems - High-density racking systems that optimize available space by eliminating work aisles. In Drive-In racking, the forklift enters the racking structure for loading and unloading operations, while the Drive-Through system maintains separate access aisles for loading and unloading pallets.

5.       Live Storage for Pallets (FIFO) - This system uses lines of rollers with a downward incline to move the pallets, enabling perfect stock rotation in the warehouse.

6.       Push-Back Pallet Racking - Similar to FIFO live storage systems, but the pallets are stored according to the LIFO (Last in, First out) method.

7.       Mobile Pallet Racking - This system has a structure installed on chassis guided by rails on the floor, allowing for the lateral displacement of the racking modules.

Choosing the right pallet racking system can significantly enhance warehouse efficiency and productivity, making it an integral part of any warehouse management system.