Intro

 

Pallet racking systems are an essential part of any storage, distribution or handling operation. With so many different types of pallet racking available, it’s important to choose the right system for your specific storage requirements. Some pallet racking, such as cantilever racking, is best suited to store long or bulky items, whereas narrow aisle racking is better suited to storage space optimization. The starting point of any warehouse storage project should always be to properly evaluate what exactly it is you will be storing; including the size, weight, material of the objects, as all of these features will help to determine exactly which pallet racking to use. We’ve put together a guide to some of the most popular types of pallet racking, including the benefits of each and what kind of objects are best suited to each type.

 

Cantilever Pallet Racking

 

Cantilever pallet racking is a racking system designed to store long, awkward or bulky materials. The system is made up of upright columns that are connected to the base in which the cantilever arms connect to, creating the various storage levels. The system can be single or double-sided, meaning that items can also be stored on either side of the upright columns when using a double-sided system. Cantilever racking is by far the most efficient way to store long and flat materials or objects, such as wooden boards, steel beams. The easy-to-install storage system is versatile in that it can be customised to the product being stored. A final thing to take note of with regards to cantilever racking is its price. Cantilever pallet racking can sometimes be up to three times more expensive than a standard selective pallet rack, although in most cases the price is justified due to its suitability for specific objects and materials.

 

Drive-in Pallet Racking

 

Our next type of pallet racking is drive-in pallet racking. This type of storage system is used in warehouses to store pallets on a first in/ last out (FILO) basis. With this form of racking, the pallets are both loaded and unloaded from the front side of the racking. Forklift machinery can then drive directly into the racking’s bays to access the stored items. This type of pallet racking is the ideal choice for tight spaces with restricted area for movement and allows for a much more dense storage load in a confined storage space. Drive-in racking systems significantly reduce the retrieval time of items, increasing the overall efficiency and productivity of a warehouse and its employees.

Mobile racking is another great racking option for storage space optimisation. Because the racking is made with built-in wheels, this eliminates the need for individual access aisles, increasing warehouse capacity and operation efficiency. This specific type of racking is the ideal choice for a storage solution that requires the ability to move between different locations easily and frequently.

 

Wide and Narrow Aisle Pallet Racking

 

Wide aisle pallet racking is probably the most commonly used way of storing palletised loads, even in modern, state of the art warehouses. The racking system is constructed using horizontal beams and upright frames that form the racks, which can be altered to accommodate different stock and storage requirements. A versatile and flexible storage solution, wide aisle pallet racking is used by businesses across a broad range of industries, including materials and food storage. The racking is particularly cost-effective and ensures that set up costs are minimised. It’s layout provides unrestricted access to all pallets, and generally suits the widest range of storage items, in comparison to other forms of racking solutions.

 

Narrow aisle racking is the optimal racking solution for particularly narrow spaces and are built for operations in which there is very little aisle space to spare. The racking system offers maximum storage capacity and quick and easy access to every pallet.

 

Pallet Racking at RackZone.ie

 

Here at RackZone we specialise in pallet racking and industrial shelving. We offer a range of new pallet racking systems which have been inspected to ensure products are in excellent structural condition, function properly and appear as described. We aim to give you great products at a great price with exceptional service. Get in touch with us today to discuss all of our shelving and racking options further at +353 (0)90 9673261 or email us at [email protected].