The Different Types of Pallet Storage

To get the most out of your warehouse, you need to have a very efficient storage system.

Maximizing the amount of product you can store is key to maximizing your profits. That’s why it’s important to understand the different types of pallet storage and how each one is used.

If you’re using the wrong type of pallet rack, you may not be making the most efficient use of your space. Here are some of the different types of pallet storage and how they can be used.

Drive-in Racks

These pallet racks can hold a large amount of products. They’re usually made out of steel, so they’re incredibly strong and very durable.

Drive-in racks are spaced out so that forklifts can drive right up to them to load and unload. Normally, drive-in racks can be entered from either side, and items are loaded based on a last-in, first-out order. This means it can be very difficult to get to something in the middle of a rack, so items have to be sorted into the rack in the correct order. They’re useful for products that have a fairly low turnover rate since items aren’t necessarily going to be easily accessible.

Drive-Through Racks

This system is very similar to a drive-in rack with one exception: instead of having the bay accessible from either side, they’re set up with one entrance and one exit. They use the first-in, first-out structure.

Selective Racks

The selective rack storage system is very commonly used in warehouses. All pallets can be accessed from the aisle, which means it’s easy to find and move any items being stored in the warehouse.

Usually, selective racks are arranged around fairly narrow aisles so more racks can be erected, but this does mean that not all lift trucks are going to be able to drive down these aisles. Many used pallet racks are available for selective rack systems, which help warehouses save money.

Gravity Flow Racks

This type of rack, sometimes known simply as a flow rack, is a great option for storing a large amount of product. It uses the first-in, first-out system. Items are placed at the high end of the rack and then removed at the low end.

As new items are loaded, products are rotated through the system. A gravity roller helps move the loads along the sloped plane, but the system includes speed controllers and brakes to help control the movement of pallets. Because everything moves along via gravity, there’s nothing electric. This means there are no motors or conveyor belts that could suddenly break or need maintenance.

Push Back Systems

This type of rack uses a roll form and is great for storing items in bulk. Products can be stored two to five pallets deep and can be stored upwards as well. When a pallet is added, it pushed the pallet behind it backwards on rails. When a pallet is unloaded, the pallets behind it move forward. This system uses a last in, first out approach.

Selecting a Pallet Storage System

When deciding on which storage system is best for your warehouse, take in mind the space the system takes up, the type of system (first in, first out or last in, first out), and what you’re storing. Then, contact us at Murray Material Handling to find the perfect system for your needs.