Integrated Storage Systems in a Warehouse
A storage system is a set of physical structures designed to store goods and inventory in a warehouse by maximizing the use of space, arrangement of products, and ease of access.
When making changes in your warehouse, you can use the storage system options below.
Selective Pallet Rack
The selective pallet rack system is also known as the direct rack pallet system that allows warehouse managers direct access to stored packages, cartons, and pallets without the inconvenience of moving others. This pallet rack system is a first-in-first-out inventory management system as pallets are placed and unloaded from the front. It can also be a great last-in-first-out option if you opt for double-deep selective racks.
This is an excellent option if you have a wide variety of products and items to store. Since the selective pallet rack option uses multiple aisles to accommodate high selectivity, this storage system is a lower density option.
This type of rack system is great for warehouses and distribution centers that see a lot of product circulation or simultaneously require easy access to different pallets and cartons.
Pallet Flow Rack
A pallet flow rack or carton flow rack system is a type of mobile racking system designed to support wheels or inclined rollers so that the pallets can easily be rolled out from the back or loading aisle to the front aisle. When the front pallet is unloaded, the next batch automatically rolls into the front position. These types of storage systems are also equipped with brakes for speed control.
Pallet flow racks are 12 lanes deep and offer high-density storage and excellent volume utilization. This is a perfect option for time-sensitive products or products that expire quickly, like food and beverages and cold storage applications.
Block Stacking
Block stacking involves single items or pallets placed on the floor and then stacked one on top of the other. This type of storage system involves organizing in blocks or lanes to access each item.
This storage system is very affordable and simple and can be used on any open floor space. However, it does require a lot of space and is limited to the last-in-first-out inventory method. It also does not maximize space, and you will require time and effort to get the item or pallet placed at the bottom of the stack.
Drive-in & Drive-Through Rack
A drive-in and drive-through rack system involve pallets stored on support railings suspended by uprights. The items on the system can be accessed by a lift truck. This high-density storage option eliminates unloading aisles but offers low selectivity.
This type of rack system is excellent for storing large amounts of homogenous products, products that do not have an expiry date, or large products that require a one-time move.
Drive-in systems require a forklift to load and unload by entering through the front and going out the back, making it a LIFO inventory system. On the other hand, drive-through systems require a lift truck that can enter from both ends of the system for loading and unloading, making it a FIFO system. However, it requires an additional aisle.
Automated Storage System
An automated storage system makes it easy to store and pick out items using a computer-controlled arm. These systems are an excellent option for picking out smaller items that may take time to retrieve manually and a good solution for archive storage that contains thousands of books, newspapers, and documents.
However, if these systems are not regularly maintained, they can result in mechanical failure. It also has a good safety aspect as it eliminates the need for a human retriever to climb heights and pick the goods.
The best warehouse storage systems are one that fulfills the storage requirements of your warehouse.
Industrial Products Plus (IPP) is a leading supplier of storage systems for all businesses and industries. Call us to learn more about our services.