Your warehouse racking layout is an integral part of your overall warehouse operations. An efficient layout contributes to the overall design of your warehouse and determines your use of floor and wall space and inventory access as well as storage and shipping areas. 


With a decision as important as designing your warehouse racking layout,  it’s important to be well informed. That’s why we’ve put together 8 top tips to help you design the perfect warehouse racking layout for your business. 


1. What are your storage requirements

The first consideration when designing your warehouse racking layout is your storage requirements. Racking needs to adjust according to your storage requirements and not the other way around. Do you mostly store large pallets or smaller pallets? Do you have a combination of both? Bear in mind the size, shape and weight of the stock you hold as this will determine the dimensions and weight bearing load your racking needs.


2. Key considerations

There are a number of different considerations to bear in mind when choosing your racking system. In an overview, these include available floor space, ceiling height, types and sizes of pallets used, the fork truck type used and budget. When you factor all of these considerations into your choice you're sure to make the best decision for your warehouse. Why not talk to our experts today to get the best solution. 


3. Investigate the different racking systems

Before choosing a racking system for your warehouse, learn about all the types that are available to you from longspan to industrial to tyre racking. Many warehouses require a combination of racking types and it’s rarely a one size fits all approach. When choosing a racking system for your warehouse be sure to consult with the experts here at RackZone who aim to give you great products at a great price with exceptional service.


4. Map your warehouse

By mapping your warehouse you’ll be forced to consider all the immovable factors including supporting columns, doors, offices etc that you must design around. This will help you to pre-plan an efficient racking system before you buy.

 

5. Listen to your employees 

It can be easy to jump straight in and order racking but it's vital to hear the opinions of those who will be using this equipment daily. Your managers, drivers and contractors have years of experience in warehouses as well as experience in your specific warehouse so their opinions will be invaluable. 


6. Invest for durability

Racking is a considerable investment for your warehouse but an important one. Make the most of this investment by spending the money on durable, made to last racking. Take into consideration the wear and tear your racking will likely see and the weight it will have to hold up. Choosing cheaper racking solutions will save you money in the short term but cost you in the long run as they quickly show signs of wear and tear and become a hazard in your warehouse.


7. Plan for expansion

Always be future thinking. It’s likely that some time in the future you’ll decide to increase your warehouse storage space or begin to diversify product types. Start planning for that now by purchasing modular racking that can be easily adjusted to cater for changing warehouse needs. 


8. Implement a warehouse management system

The 5S lean strategy is a strategy that helps to make problems in your warehouse visible and easily solved. Having a clean and organised warehouse doesn’t just leave the place looking great it also ensures that operations run smoothly and issues are identified and resolved quickly. By implementing this management system your inventory and operations will be as well organised as your new racking system which is vital. 


Conclusion:


We hope our 8 top tips for designing your warehouse racking layout have been helpful. 


Our team of experts here at RackZone are ready to help you choose the best racking solution for your warehouse, or storage facility. To learn more about our racking options as well as our versatile range of solutions including shelving, contact us today.