Every warehouse’s pallet rack systems are different, and every industry has its own specific set of storage goals. If you’re interested in an intuitive and space-saving pallet storage solution, push-back racks might be exactly what your business needs!
If you’re scratching your head at the mention of this rhyming storage system, you aren’t alone. Even some seasoned warehouse workers don’t know much about this type of racking, so we’re here to help. Get ready to learn everything you need to know about push-back racks!
How Do Push-Back Racking Systems Work?
Push-back rack systems are designed with a pair of inclined rails and a range of nested carts that ride on these rails. For instance, a “four-deep” rack will have three nested carts. A forklift operator places the first pallet on the top cart. When the second pallet is ready, the first rack will be pushed back, and the second pallet will be placed on the middle cart. Finally, the operator will place the third pallet resting on the rails of the bottom cart, pushing back the two in front of it.
Unloading a push-back racking system is the reverse of loading it. The rails are inclined toward the aisle, making the unloading process relatively straightforward. When an operator removes the pallet closest to them, the remaining pallets will follow them to the front of the lane. Then, each pallet is removed in reverse order until the rack is empty.
Some push-back racks are designed on a smaller scale and require no forklift or machine operator present. These smaller racks are often used for cold storage and in other time-sensitive situations where loading and unloading times are critical. They also speed up order picking and packing times and keep things moving on a “small but mighty” scale.
Who Uses Push-Back Racking?
Push-back racking is used by countless industries worldwide. A few industries where these systems are especially common are product manufacturing, food distribution, automotive production, shipping and logistics, and pharmaceutical development, but there are hundreds of others. Chances are, this type of racking would be perfect at YOUR facility!
Why Choose a Push-Back Pallet Storage System?
A push-back storage rack system can provide your warehouse with…
- Additional horizontal and vertical space. By arranging items several pallets deep using a push-back system, you’ll have more space for other items in the warehouse. You will need to be mindful of optimal storage practices to benefit from this perk, so plan ahead before changing those pallet positions.
- Increased safety for personnel and products. Traditional racking systems often necessitate constant handling of products, resulting in accidents. With a push-back racking system, forklift operators and merchandise alike can remain protected. The risk of rack damage is also reduced since there’s no need to drive into the rack to clear pallets.
- Simplified loading and unloading process. The built-in features of standard push-back racking systems are designed to help simplify the loading and unloading process for both machine operators and order pickers. Push-back racks are easier and faster to load and unload because they come back to the aisle. When used effectively, this type of racking can save you significant amounts of time and money.
- Limited maintenance requirements. While you should never miss racking inspection no matter what type of racking you use, push-back racking requires little to no maintenance, making it easy to use and care for.
Push Your Storage to the Next Level!
Want to create more storage space and ensure safer operations at your warehouse or storage facility? Shop push-back racking, drive-in racking, selective rack components, and much more at Diversified Rack & Shelving. For over 30 years, we’ve been selling, servicing, and installing trusted storage systems all over the East Coast. We offer high-quality new and used racking solutions to fit every budget, so contact us to get a quote for your own push-back rack system today!