Pallet racking plays an essential role in warehousing, space optimisation and storage. The different pallet racking types are crucial to improving organisation and efficiency. The improved space utilisation allows businesses to save money as it reduces the need to rent or purchase additional space. At LTS, we specialise in all types of pallet racking tailored to real operational demands. Let’s further explore just how useful and important pallet storage systems are to end-to-end supply chain operations.
What is Pallet Racking?
Pallet racking is a structured storage solution. It’s designed to hold palletised goods in horizontal rows and vertical spaces. But pallet racking systems do so much more than securely hold palletised goods. The robust structure allows for inventory to be stored and retrieved seamlessly. These organised systems are what allow warehouses to utilise vertical space and improve storage.
All types of pallet racking are beneficial for warehouse storage. Depending on the type of inventory, you may benefit from a specific racking solution. LTS Global Solutions provides pallet storage services that take the stress out of inventory management. We offer a wide selection of pallet racking to optimise storage. These systems also help maintain compliance, improve accessibility and enhance efficiency.
Benefits of Pallet Racking
Storage is one of the first benefits that immediately comes to mind and it’s an important one. But pallet racking does more than store inventory. It improves inventory accessibility, allowing supply chains to operate more smoothly. By keeping stock clearly organised and structured, pallet racking makes products quicker and easier to locate. Organised pallet racking not only speeds up retrieval and replenishment but also enables warehouses to store a greater volume of inventory.
Another key benefit is saving money. Pallet racking maximises warehouse space to help businesses store more goods within the same area. This is all done by utilising vertical space. Customer satisfaction is another aspect associated with organised and accessible pallet racking. The ability to quickly retrieve and send items helps build customer trust.
Compact vs Selective System
Many pallet racking types improve stock and inventory control. Two major types of racking include compact and selective systems. Compact storage systems make full use of vertical space by storing pallets closely together. These systems increase storage density without expanding the warehouse footprint. Compact systems are useful in warehouses where space is at a premium. Selective racking systems focus more on accessibility rather than density. They provide convenient access to every pallet at all times. Both systems feature many benefits. The ideal choice will come down to your overall floor space and whether you prioritise accessibility or storage.
Types of Pallet Racking
Adjustable Pallet Racking
Adjustable pallet racking is a type of selective racking. It features upright frames and horizontal beams that can be adjusted vertically. This allows warehouses to accommodate different pallet heights. This system allows for improved storage utilisation. Warehouses that use adjustable pallet racking are better equipped to manage different inventory and stock.
Double Deep Pallet Racking
Double deep pallet racking allows for pallets to be stored at two depths. This system maximises storage density and reduces the number of aisles within a warehouse. The only potential drawback is that they can only be accessed from the front pallet. For this reason, double deep pallet racking is often used for storing identical items.
Drive-In, Drive-Through Pallet Racking
Drive-in and drive-through pallet racking are compact storage systems. These systems are modified to increase their storage capacity. They eliminate the need for aisles by allowing forklifts to drive into the rack structure to store pallets.
Drive-in systems use a single access LIFO (Last-in, first out) system. This is where the last pallet stored is the first pallet that is retrieved. Drive-through systems allow access from both ends and operate on a FIFO (first-in, first-out) system. This means that the first pallet stored is the first one retrieved. Both systems optimise space and are ideal for identical items. Read our blog for more information on FEFO vs FIFO.
Very Narrow Aisle (VNA) Pallet Racking
Very narrow aisle (VNA) racking is similar to standard adjustable pallet racking. The main exception is that it’s more compact. The design allows for higher storage density and can be adjusted to maximise the height available. However, it does create very narrow aisles, hence the name. This means VNA racking requires forklifts designed for the storage system. It still offers direct access to pallets and is one of the best systems for optimising space.
Push Back Pallet Racking
Push back pallet racking is loaded and unloaded from the front of the structure. When a new pallet is placed into the lane, it gently pushes the existing pallets further back. The system uses inclined rollers, allowing forklifts to load pallets easily. The design allows pallets to move smoothly within the racking. Along with improving storage, push back racking is also ideal for storing identical products, quicker loading and retrieval of pallets.
Multi-Tier Pallet Racking
Multi-tier pallet racking creates additional levels by incorporating walkways and mezzanine style structures within the racking system. It is well-suited to environments where manual picking is required alongside pallet storage. Multi-tier pallet racking is also advantageous for storing different stock and bulky loads. While highly space efficient, this hybrid system can be more complex to design. It also requires careful planning to ensure safe accessibility and smooth operation.
FIFO Live Storage Pallet Racking
FIFO live storage racking is designed to save space and keep stock moving. Pallets are loaded at one end of the racking and collected from the other. The design of the structure features sloped rollers that allow pallets to gently move. This efficient system is advantageous for reducing handling times. The only potential drawback is that they may involve higher upfront costs which are less flexible if product dimensions change. However, this does mean they’re well-suited for pallets with identical inventory.
Mobile Pallet Racking
Mobile pallet racking is built on a mobile base, per its name, allowing the racking units to move along floor mounted rails as needed. The design of mobile pallet racking allows for only one aisle to be open at a time. Racking can be moved to provide access as needed. The main consideration is that it may take slightly more time to access pallets as opposed to stationary racking.
Racking vs Shelving
Racking and shelving serve very different purposes. Pallet racking is designed for palletised goods. These are normally heavy loads that require handling by mechanical equipment. Shelving is more ideal for smaller items. These are items that are better suited for manual picking. Many warehouses often utilise both systems to accommodate the storage of different types of inventory.
Warehousing Services at LTS Global Solutions
Choosing the right type of pallet racking system is only one part of an effective warehousing strategy. LTS specialises in all aspects of warehousing design, storage optimisation and operational support. Along with tailored pallet storage solutions, LTS also provides food warehousing and ambient storage services, supporting a wide range of industries. Contact us by filling out our contact form, giving us a call on 0121 753 0080 or sending us an email at info@ltsglobalsolutions.com.
