The Ultimate Guide to Buying Industrial Racking
Industrial racking is the backbone of efficient storage systems across various sectors, from warehouses and manufacturing facilities to retail outlets and distribution centres. Choosing the right racking system is crucial for maximising space, improving workflow, and ensuring safety. With the wide variety of options available today, making the right decision can be overwhelming. This guide will walk you through the essential factors to consider when buying industrial racking.
1. Understand Your Storage Needs
Before diving into specific racking options, take a step back and assess your storage requirements. Consider the following:
- Type of Goods: Are you storing heavy machinery, light products, perishable goods, or something else? The nature of the items will influence the type of racking system you need.
- Load Capacity: Understand the weight and volume of the goods you'll be storing. This helps in determining the load capacity each rack must support.
- Size and Shape of Items: Ensure the racking system can accommodate the dimensions and shapes of your products, whether they’re uniform or irregular.
2. Choose the Right Racking Type
There are various types of racking systems, each suited for different purposes. Whittan Group offers a range of racking solutions designed to meet diverse needs:
- Adjustable Pallet Racking: This versatile solution allows for easy customisation of shelf heights to accommodate different pallet sizes, making it ideal for warehouses storing a wide variety of goods.
- Push Back Pallet Racking: Designed for high-density storage, this system allows for last-in, first-out (LIFO) storage, maximising space in warehouses with high turnover.
- Narrow Aisle Racking and Very Narrow Aisle Pallet Racking: These options are perfect for facilities looking to maximise vertical space while minimising aisle width, ideal for operations with high storage density.
- Wide Aisle Racking: A traditional option offering easy access to all stored items, suitable for warehouses that require fast and direct access to goods.
- Mobile Racking: A space-saving solution that moves on tracks, opening up aisles only when needed, perfect for cold storage or retail backrooms.
- Rack Supported Structures: These integrated systems support both storage and structural needs, allowing for the construction of multi-tiered storage facilities.
- Drive-In Racking: Best for high-density storage of uniform items, this system allows forklifts to drive directly into the racking lanes.
- Double Deep Pallet Racking: This system increases storage density by allowing pallets to be stored two deep, suitable for operations where selectivity is less of a priority.
- Pallet Live and Carton Live Storage: Ideal for first-in, first-out (FIFO) operations, these systems use gravity to move pallets or cartons along inclined tracks, perfect for fast-moving inventory.
- High Bay Racking: This solution is designed for maximising storage in facilities with high ceilings, making full use of vertical space.
- Radio Shuttle Racking System: A semi-automated solution that enhances storage density and efficiency, particularly in high-turnover warehouses.
3. Consider Space Utilisation
Maximizing storage space is often a priority in industrial settings. The right racking system can significantly enhance space utilization:
- Vertical Space: If your warehouse has high ceilings, multi-tier or tall racking systems, like High Bay Racking, can help make the most of vertical space.
- Aisle Width: Balancing aisle width with rack height and depth is key. Systems like Narrow Aisle Racking and Very Narrow Aisle Pallet Racking allow for more racking but require specialised equipment like narrow aisle forklifts.
4. Evaluate Durability and Material
The material of your racking system affects its durability and suitability for your environment:
- Steel Racking: Offers high strength and durability, making it ideal for heavy-duty applications like Drive-In Racking or Rack Supported Structures.
- Galvanised or Powder-Coated Racking: Provides protection against rust and corrosion, essential for humid or outdoor environments.
- Aluminum Racking: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, suitable for specific industries like food storage.
5. Safety Considerations
Safety is paramount in any industrial setting. Poorly selected or installed racking can lead to accidents, injuries, and damage to goods:
- Load Limits: Ensure that each racking system is clearly marked with load limits and that these limits are never exceeded.
- Seismic Considerations: If your facility is in an area prone to earthquakes, opt for seismic-resistant racking systems designed to withstand tremors.
- Rack Protection: Consider additional safety features like rack guards, column protectors, and safety clips to prevent damage and accidents.
6. Flexibility and Scalability
Your storage needs might change over time, so it's important to choose a racking system that offers flexibility and scalability:
7. Compliance with Regulations
Ensure that your chosen racking system complies with local and industry-specific regulations:
- Health and Safety Standards: Adherence to health and safety guidelines is essential to avoid fines and ensure a safe working environment.
- Fire Safety Regulations: Some storage systems need to meet fire safety standards, especially when storing flammable or hazardous materials.
8. Budget Considerations
While it’s important to invest in quality racking, your budget will naturally influence your options:
- Initial Cost vs. Long-Term Value: Consider the long-term value of investing in a more durable, flexible, or automated system, like Radio Shuttle Racking Systems, even if the upfront cost is higher.
- Installation Costs: Factor in the cost of professional installation, especially for complex systems that require precise setup.
9. Vendor Reputation and Support
Choosing the right vendor is just as important as choosing the right racking system:
- Reputation: Look for vendors with a solid reputation for quality products and customer service.
- After-Sales Support: Ensure that the vendor offers reliable after-sales support, including maintenance services, replacement parts, and assistance with future reconfigurations or expansions.
10. Environmental Impact
If sustainability is a priority for your business, consider the environmental impact of your racking system:
- Eco-Friendly Materials: Look for racking systems made from recycled materials or with a lower environmental footprint.
- Energy Efficiency: If you're considering automated racking systems, evaluate their energy consumption and opt for energy-efficient options.
Selecting the right industrial racking system is a crucial decision that affects the efficiency, safety, and scalability of your operations. By considering your storage needs, space utilisation, safety, and budget, and by choosing a reputable vendor like Whittan Group, you can ensure that you invest in a racking system that meets your current needs and can grow with your business.
At Whittan, we specialise in providing tailor-made racking solutions that are durable, flexible, and designed to meet the specific needs of various industries. Whether you need Adjustable Pallet Racking, Push Back Pallet Racking, or a comprehensive Rack Supported Structure, we have the expertise and product range to help you optimise your storage space and improve your operational efficiency. Contact us today to discuss how we can help you take your storage to the next level.
