Designing a pallet racking system for a warehouse can be a daunting task if you have little experience. But you’ll agree that a great design can boost the efficiency of operations in the warehouse.
Pallet Racking System Malaysia experts recommend hiring contractors to do the designing work for you. That’s because they’ve got the extensive experience that can help you save time and find the best design. But if you’re working on a tight budget, equip yourself with the right skills in designing pallet racks.
This article highlights some essential tips that you need to keep in mind when designing pallet racks.
- Pallet Type And Size
The pallets’ dimensions and weights are vital measurements that you must consider as you design your rack. You can use the standard industry size (40” x 48”) because it fits most systems. The dimensions you choose will affect the rack height or depth.
You also need to consider the items that you want to keep in the pallet. There are standard designs that are used for different types of items. You need to consider the product’s fragility, expiration dates, and specific environmental storage conditions.
- Inventory Retrieval Order
There are two types of inventory retrieval orders: first-in-first-out (FIFO) and last-in-first-out (LIFO). These inventory retrieval orders will determine the design that your pallet rack solution takes. Pallet Racking System Malaysia professionals recommend storing shipping products that are perishable and those that have been in stock for long time first. As a result, they require a type of rack that’ll enable easier shipping.
On the other hand, if you have products that can last for longer, you can apply the LIFO system to optimize the warehouse space.
- Pallet Count
The pallets that your warehouse needs will influence the racking design you select. If your facility requires fewer pallets per SKU, selective pallet racking can be a good fit because it allows ready accessibility and variability.
On the other hand, if your warehouse requires more pallets per SKU, you’ll need a storage system with a higher density like push back or drive-in pallet tracking.
- Environmental Requirements
The environment that your goods require will impact your racking system’s price and design. Products are stored in different environmental conditions such as cold, controlled, and ambient temperatures.
Products that require ambient storage are simple to store because they are resistant to several factors. However, perishable items may require cold environments, while medications may require controlled temperatures.
Environments that aren’t temperature specific can offer you several design options. However, designing pallet racks for colder environments requires more experience, expertise, and money. Mezzanine Floor Malaysia contractors can help you quickly install floors that support most of these pallet rack designs.
The Bottom Line
It’s essential to understand your warehouse’s needs before designing a pallet racking system. These are but a few tips that can help you create an excellent system.