Pallet racking is a form of storage system that is suited for bulk material handling and storing. The storable objects are kept on the pallets which provide solid platform to store heavy and bulky items. These kinds of storage units are typically common in the warehouses. Also known as skids, these pallets are either made of wood, galvanized steel or plastic which allow forklifts to shift bulk quantities of storage articles around the warehouse, sans hassle. There are many variations in pallet racking systems and each comes with distinct features and benefits.
The cost of the pallet racking units varies on the density; the more the density is, more is the cost. Among the others, the selective rack type is the most cost-efficient one. Some of the common pallet racking systems that are used are:
• Drive In
• Block Stacking
• Push Back
• Pallet Live Storage
• Stacking Frames
Drive-In Rack
It is considered as cost effective and high density storage unit. Drive-in systems load and retrieve materials from the same side, creating Last-In-First-Out (LIFO) basis. The lanes that lie in between the racks allow forklifts to take out or keep the articles.
Block Stacking
Block stacking is another cost-effective solution. Here the pallets are kept on top of the other. The block stacking type utilizes the floor space fully but there are dangers of toppling of the stored articles due to load instability leading to damage of the stocks. The low maintenance attributes, fullest space optimization and the pocket-friendly price makes these as one of the choicest options.
Push Back Pallet Racking
It is a high density storage system that helps store pallets between two and five deep on carriers that are fitted on inclined rails. The load is pushed into the racks with the help of fork lift truck. These units operate on LIFO (last in, first out) and optimally optimize the floor space.
Pallet Live Storage
Pallet Live Storage includes a system wherein the pallets are supported on rollers that are slightly inclined or on the gravity wheel tracks. This is done to ensure that the pallets automatically travel the one side to the other, that is, from the loading side to the direction of unloading. This works on the FIFO basis and its space utilization is better than any other systems.
Stacking Frames
Irregularly shaped pallets and non-stackable pallets are common in some warehouses. The stacking frames support the pallets to be stacked or piled, one over the other. These units are suitable for the businesses whose storage needs are temporary.
Pallet racking units are the most sought after storing units in the factories, distribution and manufacturing facilities and the warehouses. Today, some high-end retail outlets are also using these for their unique purposes. However, it is important to choose the right storage unit will suit your requirements to the best.
Christ Thomas works in one of the reputed companies which specialize in manufacturing heavy duty shelving and storage units. He also writes articles on the usability of different storage units like the Pallet Racking systems and the benefits.
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