Managing a distribution centre, warehouse, racking system can have a huge impact on your bottom line. Physical space constraints as well as specific operating needs must be taken into consideration before deciding on a rack system that meets your needs. This problem can be compounded further when trying to asses and make changes to an existing facility. Store-Rite is always working too meet the needs of our clients, and assessing your options to find the pallet racking solution that is right for you. When thinking about a new pallet racking system be sure to consider the following.
1. Is your business FIFO or LIFO? Understanding your businesses needs is key to successfully picking an alternative to deep lane storage. If your requirements are simply First in, First Out (FIFO) pallet flow racks should be the choice for you. In a FIFO environment under select circumstances other alternatives can be considered, but be sure to look at your situation carefully before making a decision as buried loads can increase your labor costs for material handling.
2. What are your forklift needs? Selection of fork trucks is crucial, even more so if utilizing drive-thru, drive-in, double-deep racks, or any other specialized storage. With certain rack systems a 6 to 12 inch minimum should always be added to the “right-angle” isle requirement for stacking that the truck manufacturer provides. Doing so will reduce loss due to damaged racks and products as well as maintaining work place safety, and increasing productivity across the board.
3. Consider your warehouse lighting. Workers will benefit from increased lighting exposure with greater accuracy and reduced product and rack damage as well as creating an all around more comfortable work environment.
4. What type of environment is your warehouse in? Wash-down requirements, regulations imposed by the FDA as well as local climate and other specialized needs will all play a role in your rack selection.
5. Be aware of storage density. By analyzing the SKU of onsite storage volumes you will be able to select a rack option that maximizes your space utilization.
6. Required capacity. Storage locations need to be built under the assumption that at any given time your heaviest possible pallet will be stored there. This will create a flexible and safe warehouse.
7. Look for rack decking. Inconsistent pallet types can jeopardize the safety of both the product and driver. Additional rack components (decking, pallet supports) may be needed and should be considered.
8. Understand your selectivity. Full selectivity will significantly reduce your choices. Deep lane storage is not for you if your needs require full access to a specific pallet at any given time. Burying pallets will be a common occurrence during a shortage of space. Based on your specific needs the additional labor costs may be acceptable.
9. Be conscious of your seismic zone. Before installing any rack structure be aware of any and all federal, state, and/or local codes related to your business location and seismic zone. For example all manmade structures (racks include) will be subject to higher scrutiny in an earthquake zone.
10. Assess your picking profile. The pallet rack you decide on and how its configured will depend greatly on: how your orders look, what your picking primarily (pallets, cases, etc) and if you pick from bulk to replenish a forward pick zone.
At Store-Rite we are always here to discuss all your needs and options for pallet racking. We have been serving the greater Toronto area and southern Ontario with hundreds of pallet racking systems, and will always have the best option for you.
