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Pallet racks keep inventory off the warehouse floor and protect it from damage. They also help streamline the workflow.
When evaluating pallet racking, consider your current and future needs. A good rule of thumb is to subtract six inches from pallet depth when determining beam capacities.
To maximize space in a warehouse, precise measurements are essential. Industry-specific configurations also provide enhanced safety features.
Structural integrity
Used pallet racks can support heavy weights safely only if it is installed, anchored properly, and loaded according to its designated operational parameters. Ensure your pallet racking system is anchored and that any visible damage is repaired immediately.
When choosing a system for pallet racking, consider the material used, its load capacity, as well as the warehouse space and layout. Choose a system made of steel, aluminum, or a composite to minimize upfront costs and maintain structural integrity for years to come. Customization is also an option to meet unique product storage requirements and optimize warehouse storage space, though it may increase installation and labor costs.
Load considerations include both static and dynamic loads, which may be in motion during loading or unloading. Choose a rack system that has enough beam height to accommodate your warehouse’s load capacity. Beams vary in size, thickness, and height. This can affect the load capacity. Choose a beam connector plate model to prevent instability or dislodging.
To reduce the risk that your pallet racking will be damaged by a forklift, ensure it is properly anchored. It should also have column guards. Clearance between a pallet rack and walls is crucial for fire safety to permit the installation of sprinklers, avoid obstruction of fire exits, and provide access for firefighters. Instruct staff to regularly inspect pallet racking for signs of wear and tear, and ensure all employees are trained in safe work practices and understand proper load handling procedures.
Safety
A warehouse’s success depends on the safety of its employees, customers, and products. Thankfully, the proper use of pallet racks can help minimize risk. To maximize rack safety, choose the right system, train your staff on proper loading, unloading, and inspection techniques, and develop an emergency plan.
A qualified professional should install pallet racking systems to ensure compliance with ANSI/RMI and OSHA pallet racking standards. This will allow them to identify potential structural issues and repair them before they become serious problems. A professional inspector will scrutinize every component, looking for signs of damage and wear that could compromise the structural integrity of your pallet racking system. This step is especially important if your warehouse has a complex or extensive racking system, as these experts have the expertise to spot issues that you may miss.
It is also important to adhere to the load capacities indicated on the rack label. Overloading racks is dangerous, against OSHA regulations and can lead to structural failures and accidents.
Lastly, it’s essential to make sure your warehouse aisles are wide enough to accommodate your equipment and prevent collisions. You should also monitor them regularly to see if anything is blocking access or creating a bottleneck that could be dangerous for workers.
Easy assembly
Pallet racks are a practical storage solution for many types of warehouses, distribution centers, and manufacturing facilities. They maximize space and improve the workflow by reducing issues with out-of-stock. They are also more economical than other storage options, requiring minimal installation and maintenance. They can be tailored to meet the changing needs of the business.
There are many different pallet racking styles to choose from, each with its own benefits. Standard selective pallet racking, for example, compares most favorably to steel shelving systems and is available in a variety of frame heights to match your warehouse needs. Other designs such as push-back rack and drive-in/drive-thru systems offer deeper lanes of pallet storage to minimize aisles and optimize cube space.
When choosing a pallet rack system, it is important to consider the type of items you will store in them. Different materials require different decking types. For example, wire mesh decking is best suited for heavy loads, while perforated or solid steel decks are more suitable for lighter weight items. Lag bolts and heavy-duty anchors can also prevent racks from falling due to a large load on one side, or collisions with forklifts.
Pallet racks are easy to assemble. The most common form consists of upright frames with punched holes connecting horizontal beams. A T-bolt fits through the hole and is secured to the upright by a tab. This type of connection can withstand collisions with forklifts and can be adjusted in order to adjust beam heights.
Flexibility
The flexibility of pallet racks is a key benefit for warehouse owners, enabling them to increase storage capacity without requiring more square footage. This allows companies to save on overhead costs, including storage space, real estate and other overhead expenses associated with maintaining a larger facility. It also reduces inventory management time, increasing warehouse efficiency.
The sturdy construction of structural pallet racks and their durability make them a popular option for warehouses that deal with heavy and bulky goods. They are made with reinforced columns, welded joints and tough coatings to protect them from corrosion. In addition, they are designed with floor-level beams that help distribute weight evenly, preventing swaying and tipping.
The adjustable pallet racking also allows you to adapt your warehouse’s needs for storage without disrupting the inventory. The adjustable height allows you to accommodate different sizes and weights of pallets, which increases warehouse safety. Some adjustable pallet racks are also optimized for wood pallets foundations, ensuring a snug fit to prevent damage and support load weight.
Selective pallet racking is another flexible storage system that offers direct access to each pallet, making it ideal for warehouses that regularly handle large quantities of different SKUs. It can be configured to meet specific storage needs with a variety of accessories such as adjustable beam levels and partitions.
