When you’re trying to conduct business efficiently and effectively, you need to use your pallet racks to their fullest potential. Since racks take up a large percentage of your warehouse space, you’ll want to ensure their layout enables you to use every inch of space in your facility. The proper layout can help you store more and produce more quickly. To improve your warehouse storage, review these six tips for maximizing space with your pallet racking system.
Choose the Right Type of Pallet Rack for Your Warehouse
No two warehouses are the same, which means the racking system that works for one warehouse may not work for another. The first step in optimizing your storage space is to review the different types of pallet racks for warehouse storage. Then, you’ll need to choose one that best meets your storage needs and budget.
For example, if your company frequently handles large quantities of SKUs, your warehouse may benefit from pushback racks. If time is of the essence for your business, a pallet flow racking system could be the space-saver you need that still allows you to access products. If you don’t have a huge warehouse or a large budget, a selective rack could be the low-cost option for you.
Start with Longer Rows
When you’re first planning the layout of your racking systems, always aim to take up as much horizontal space as possible in your warehouse. Long runs of pallet racks maximize pallet position and reduce the costs per position. If you need more space down the road, you can always add more racks on the starter frames.
Make the Most of Vertical Spaces
Warehouses typically have high ceilings, which enable you to install tall storage racks. If horizontal space is an issue for your warehouse, make sure you utilize all the extra vertical space available to you with racks that get as close to the ceiling as possible. Of course, if you choose to install tall shelves, you’ll also want to get the right equipment to accommodate it and give your workers proper training.
Use Both Static and Dynamic Racks
Sometimes warehouses can benefit from having both static and dynamic storage racks. Your company may have items on a first-in, first-out system as well as items that are hardly touched. You could incorporate flexibility into your warehouse design by combining pallet flow racks with selective racks. As we mentioned, maximizing storage space starts with selecting the pallet racks that work best for your warehouse operations.
Reduce Aisle Space
Another way you can maximize space around your pallet racks is by reducing the aisle space between the shelves. Wide aisles waste precious storage space. While many warehouse aisle widths are determined by guidelines from forklift manufacturers and local safety regulations, you can place racks as close to each other as the minimum width requirement allows. If you do this with every rack, you’ll be able to increase the number of shelving units you can fit in the warehouse.
Look for Unused Spaces
Maximize your warehouse’s storage capacity by looking at every nook and cranny for unused space. Make sure every corner has a pallet rack, and even consider installing shelves above doors and under mezzanines. To get the most out of your facility, you may need to think outside the box to find possible storage areas.
Optimizing Warehouse Space for Efficiency
Improve your pallet racking system with these space optimization practices. If you have any questions about the right type of racking for your warehouse or optimizing your storage space, reach out to our team at Diversified Rack & Shelving, Inc. We offer pallet racking installation services, which includes everything you need for an efficient and productive warehouse, including customized shelves and hooks for pallet racking. Contact us today for a quote!