Pallet racking is a shelving system that enables you to organize the pallets in your warehouse to get the most out of your available space. Racking to organize pallets in your warehouse should not require a great deal of preparation prior to purchase. However, a much forethought goes in to selecting and purchasing pallets for your warehouse. This article will discuss how to prepare and measure your warehouse for the pallet racking that will efficiently and properly store your pallets.
Measuring the Warehouse
The first step in preparing your warehouse for storing pallets is to measure every inch of the warehouse. You will need to obtain dimensions from the floor to the ceiling and from wall to wall. Make sure to measure the width and length of the floor. Be sure to be precise when taking measurements. Precise measurement will ensure that your shelving will fit snugly into the storage space. Measuring your space is perhaps the most important part of preparation. Make sure to get it right.
Measuring and Weighing the Product
You will need to measure the product that will be stored on the pallets. Measure the width, breadth and length of each type of package. Measure the width, breadth and length of the fully loaded pallet, as well. Next, weigh each package variation, and then weigh the fully loaded pallet. You will use these measurements and weights to select the right pallet racking system for your needs. If you are storing heavy appliances, you will need a strong and robust racking system. If you plan to store light objects, your rack system can be less robust.
Select Your Pallet Racking System
Next, you will select the proper racking system for your product and needs. You will choose from several types of pallet racking:
– Selective
Selective pallet racking is similar to the shelves one might find in a supermarket aisle. All of the products on the pallets are accessible using this racking system. This type of racking system is used for all types of products.
– Double-Deep
Double-deep racking is similar to selective, except that not all items are accessible from the aisle. If you need to maximize space in your warehouse, double-deep racking utilizes space to the maximum.
– Drive-In
Drive-in racking enables quick loading and unloading with hand trucks or fork lifts.
– Push-Back
Push-back pallet racking provides angled shelves so that when one shelf is removed, the one behind it slides in place. Push-back racking is similar in function to drive-in racking, but this type is designed for products with low weight.
– Cantilever
Cantilever racking is designed for long items, such as piping and lumber. This type of racking is built to handle heavy items, as well.
Compare Racking Types
Research each type of racking system for weight limits, general uses and cost. Consider the maximum amount of weight that the racking will support. Consider how the racking will be utilized in the warehouse space. Compare the cost of various racking materials. Consider the ease of transport and installation of the racking units.
Select Your Racking
Select the type of racking that best meets the needs of your business. Order your racking system using the precise measurements that you obtained from your warehouse and product array. The next task is installation of the racking system.
Installation of Pallet Racking
Many business owners choose to hire a contractor to install pallet racking for a small charge. However, you can install the racking yourself. If your measurements are accurate, installation should proceed smoothly. Don’t hesitate to change the design of the racking you originally conceived if you find ways to maximize productivity while installing the racking. After all, your business depends on how efficiently your employees can access the pallets on the racks. The organization and arrangement of your pallet racking system will make your warehouse more efficient or can slow things down.
Stack Your Pallets
After you have installed your racking system, stack your pallets on the racking system. You will need to create an organization system of the products on racks. Once you implement your system of organization, you should see the efficiency of your warehouse staff increase.
Pallet racking can make your warehouse an efficient, well-organized space, which will improve your business’ bottom line. Select the right racking system for your pallets for ease of use, space efficiency and functionality.