Pallet racking systems are material handling equipment installed in warehouses and other storage facilities. They consist of a vertical structure of metallic beams supporting horizontal racks made of pallets.

Why Are Pallet Racking Systems So Popular?

Storage space is one of the most valuable forms of real estate. The global supply chain, strongly influenced by online shopping, puts a huge pressure on manufacturers and distributors. End consumers expect same day or next day deliveries. Thus, order delivery times are shorter than ever. The only way to ensure a constant flow of products is keeping sufficient stocks.

Since investing in supplementary storage facilities is very expensive, the logical solution is to improve the usability of existing warehouses. Pallet racking Denver systems do precisely this – they help companies keep larger inventories of products in the same available space. The structure of pallet racks allows the maximum use of the height and depth of warehouses.

Key Benefits of Pallet Racking

Pallet racking tends to become the norm in the warehousing industry because they offer the benefit of:

• Standardized footprints – pallet racks have standard EURO and ISO footprints, which help warehouse managers make a precise estimation of the total available surface and loading capacity;
• Solid build for heavy loads – pallet racking can be used for storing heavy items or bulk products in containers;
• Easy access to products with forklifts – warehouse employees can prepare orders quickly using forklifts and other automated logistic equipment to select items from various levels of the racking system;
• A better organized warehouse – pallet racking systems can be designed depending on the layout of the warehouse, so that you make the most of the available space.

Also, the fact that the plastic pallet has become the standard packing unit for international trade, your company can improve its stock keeping systems, achieving greater accuracy compared with the use of other racking systems.

Types of Pallet Racking Systems

 Pallet racks are highly customizable depending on the usage type and available space. The most frequently used configurations are:

1. Selective Pallet Racking Systems

This type is the most common pallet racking system. It offers a large storage capacity because it has narrow aisles and deep loading surfaces. Thus, selective racks are recommended for storing products with a quick turnover (rapidly depleting inventory).

2. Drive-in Racks

These pallet racking systems are usually made of steel and offer sufficient space so that a forklift can move into the bay. Thus, the pallet racks have a single entry/exit point and are recommended for the LIFO (last in first out) stocking method.

3. Push Back Racks

Ideal for the storage of bulk products, this type of racking system is ideal for deep and narrow storage facilities. Thus, each storage bay can be up to 6 pallets deep and each pallet is stored on carts on wheels fitted into the racks.

4. Flow Racks

Also known as gravity flow racks, this type of pallet racking system is built with a slightly sloped rail with rollers. Pallets can be easily moved on these rollers and pushed towards the higher end. This type of pallet racking system is ideal for the FIFO (first in first out) stocking method.