Pallet Racking
Why Choose Us?
Rich Experience
Founded in 2015, Guangzhou JustBest Logistics Equipment Co., Ltd. is mainly engaged in R&D, design, manufacturing, installation and after-sales service of warehousing equipment.
Professional Technical Team
We have 20 years of experienced engineering team: more than 20 engineers-level professional service teams around the world, and many experts from the company's research institutes and design institutes as backup forces for after-sales service.
Wide Product Range
Our products include industrial products such as storage shelves, logistics trolleys, aerial vehicles, pallets, storage cages, material racks, smart racks, tool cabinets (trucks), tool cabinets (trucks), storage cabinets, roller devices, etc.
Excellent Customer Service
Whether in the quality assurance period, or more than the quality assurance period, the supply side in the receipt of the user to report within 48 hours of the notice of repair, the supply side of the maintenance of technical personnel to arrive at the scene for testing and repair, such as can not be immediately repaired, then immediately make a maintenance plan.
What is Pallet Racking?
Pallet racking is a material handling storage system used to store items on pallets. The pallets are stored in horizontal rows and on multiple vertical levels. Warehouse storage on pallet racks efficiently uses otherwise wasted available vertical space and improves over-all organization in a warehouse. To access the palletized materials, forklift trucks are used to load and unload the materials on and off of the rack shelves, increasing warehouse efficiency and saving stock picking time. Pallet racking is available in many different styles and capacities to fit the needs of a warehouse.
Advantages of Pallet Racking
Convenience
Items in a warehouse should be stored in a convenient place that is easy for them to be retrieved. Staff need to be able to manually collect and deposit items quickly or a forklift needs to be able safely retrieve the whole pallet.
Robust and Flexible
Pallet racking can be setup to support a wide variety of load weights. High quality racking is designed and built to withstand years of persistent use. Durable pallet racking will require little to no maintenance over its lifetime as they offer safe and secure long-term storage solutions.
Cost Effective, Affordable
Modern pallet racking systems are efficient solutions that help reorganise warehouse goods on a large scale. High quality racking systems are affordable and eliminate the need for expensive readjustment or relocation of goods. They’re long-term durability means they will last a long time without needing to be replaced resulting in low on-going costs.
Cleans-up Floor Space
The ability to install pallet racking vertically to maximise available vertical storage space in a warehouse transfers pallet storage from the floor to up on walls. Floors will become less crowded and easier to manoeuvre around as obstacles have been eliminated increasing safety.
Increased Product Storage
By moving racking vertically businesses may be able to install more racking increasing the amount of storage available.
Flexibility to Grow
Modern pallet racking systems are flexible and are easily configurable and can be expanded as businesses grow. During periods of business growth it is quick and convenient to increase storage to meet higher demand, future-proofing your business.
Types of Pallet Racking
Adjustable Pallet Racking
This is the most common and simplest pallet racking system, and is designed to mechanically store pallets using forklifts that run parallel to the rows of racking. It is not a compact system, so it requires quite a wide surface for its installation. Its main advantage is direct and quick access to all the unit loads stored, as well as its versatility and adaptability.
Very Narrow Aisle (VNA) racking
VNA pallet racking is an adaptation of the adjustable pallet racking system, but with better use of the available space in the warehouse. The width of the work aisles is reduced so as to reduce the necessary floor space for their installation, and direct access is maintained to all the pallets stored. It needs special narrow aisle forklifts to move about and operate in the warehouse.
Double deep pallet racking
Double deep pallet racking is another adaptation of the adjustable pallet racking system, modified to increase the storage capacity. In this case, optimisation is achieved by adding an extra position for pallets at the back of the racking, storing the unit loads at 2 depths. The advantage is the greater storage capacity, but the disadvantage is loss of selectivity or direct access to each and all of the unit loads.
Drive In and Drive Through Compact Systems
Both Drive In and Drive Through Compact Racking are a type of high-density pallet racking system that optimise the available space in the warehouse. In this system, work aisles are eliminated, and the forklift enters the racking structure for loading and unloading operations. Drive In racking works according to the LIFO system with a single entry and exit aisle for the forklift, while the Drive Through system works with the FIFO method and has an access aisle for loading and the opposite end for unloading pallets.
Live Storage for pallets (FIFO)
FIFO Live Storage Pallet Racking is a storage system that has a compact structure and lines of rollers with a downward incline to move the pallets from where they are deposited at one end of the racking to the other end at the back. It is a FIFO system, where the first pallet to be loaded is the first one to be removed, enabling perfect stock rotation in the warehouse.
Push-Back Pallet Racking
Push-Back Pallet Racking has a very similar structure to FIFO live storage systems, but here the pallets are stored according to the LIFO (Last in, First out) method. When the forklift loads a new pallet, it pushes the previous pallet to the back. The Push-Back system also has beds of rollers or trolleys, which enable the displacement of the pallet through pushing.
Mobile Pallet Racking
In Mobile Pallet Racking systems the structure is installed next to some chassis guided by rails on the floor, which enables the lateral displacement of the racking modules. It is a compact structure which, thanks to the displacement of the racking blocks, allows work aisles to be opened for the operation of forklifts.
Pallet racking systems have many uses in a variety of industries, including retail, warehousing, distribution, logistics, manufacturing, and more. In the retail sector, they are used to store inventory and goods in an organized manner. In a warehouse setting, racking systems makes it easier to store and access items quickly. It also helps maximize available storage space. Distribution centers use pallet racking to help streamline their order fulfillment operations. Logistics companies rely on efficient material storage systems so they can manage they goods they are transporting safely and efficiently. Finally, manufacturers use the system for storing parts or components that are used in production processes.
Components of Pallet Racking
Upright frames are the vertical columns that form the backbone of the racking system. A pallet rack frame is typically made of high-strength steel and is anchored to the floor for stability. The height of the uprights determines the overall height of the racking and the number of storage levels you can achieve.
Cross beams, also known as load beams, are horizontal supports that connect the upright frames at various levels. Pallet rack beams provide support for the pallets and distribute the weight evenly across the structure. Cross beams are available in different lengths and weight capacities to accommodate various pallet sizes, load weights, and frame depth requirements.
Decking refers to the horizontal surface on which the pallets rest, and may consist of wire mesh, wooden boards, or metal panels, depending on the specific needs of your storage environment. Decking helps distribute the pallets’ weight evenly, and prevents them from falling between the beams.
Safety features maintain the integrity of the structure and protect your employees. These features often include the following:
Locking mechanisms: Pins or clips that secure the beams to the uprights, preventing accidental dislodgment
Pallet supports: Specialized components that prevent pallets from sliding off the racks, such as wire decking or pallet supports
Column protectors: Protective barriers installed around the base of the uprights to prevent damage from forklift collisions
Load capacity labels: Clear labeling indicating the maximum weight capacity of each rack level to prevent overloading
Safety Considerations Before Installing Pallet Racking
Pallet racking will secure better to specific floors. Concrete, linoleum, vinyl composition tile, and epoxy are common floor types in warehouses. For the most part, pallet rack systems are secured to concrete, in which case concrete wedge and strike anchors make the job easier.
If the warehouse has floors greater than 0.5-inch in 10 feet of height that differs from true parallel with gravity, additional changes may need to happen. Ensure that the rack designer is well aware of the slop gradient as nominal loads and other forces due to sloping floors could present a problem.
Warehouses located in regions that experience seismic activity should perform design checks for the loading check.
Once the installation is done, the person in charge, such as the manager or owner, needs to develop an inspection schedule. Qualified individuals who have the necessary certifications should be the only ones to handle annual inspections.
The design of the base plates and anchor system can withstand force, but they are still prone to impact from various heavy-duty machinery. Consider adding additional reinforcements to withstand blunt force from impacts, such as a higher quantity of anchor bolts, column protectors on base plates, column guards, and the like.
How to Configure Pallet Racking Systems
Step 1: Size the Product
Measure the pallets: Start by measuring the width, depth and height of your pallets (typical pallets are 40" wide x 48" deep). You'll also want to keep a little room between pallets to give yourself leeway when loading and unloading the rack. Keep note of this measurement as the rest of the steps will rely on these figures.
Determine the heaviest load weight: Also important is the weight of the heaviest load you will be storing. Keep in mind, you must also include the weight of the pallet.
Step 2: Select Beam and Upright Sizes
Beam and Upright Sizes
Determine shelf width: Now you will determine (based on the previous measurements) how wide your shelves need to be. For example, if you have a typical pallet, you have 80" of load on your shelf (based on two pallets per shelf) and with 4" on each side of each pallet, you'll need at minimum a 96" beam.
Determine necessary beam capacity: Once you have the rack width established, you'll need to select the correct capacity beams for your load. Each shelf level will require two beams.
Determine upright height and depth: Choosing the uprights is as simple as figuring out how many shelf levels you want to have and using your pallet height to determine the needed upright height. Also keep in mind both load and total shelf capacities when choosing the correct upright. Upright depths will be strictly based on the depth of your pallets. You must keep the entire pallet load balanced on the front and rear rack beams.
Step 3: Add It Up
Determine quantities: Now you can determine the total number of beams and uprights you'll need for your planned storage system. Remember, you can use one upright as a connecter for multiple bays of rack. Two racks in a row can share a center upright as long as total shelf and upright capacities are within range.
Below you can see profile views of three separate pallet rack layout styles. At left is a single row of free standing pallet rack. Center is two rows of pallet rack setup back to back and tied together in the center. At right is a single row of pallet rack placed against a wall and tied to the wall using wall supports.
Load capacity
Pallet racking systems generally offer higher load capacities compared to shelving. Racks are designed to store heavy items, using upright frames and horizontal beams to support increased weight. Shelving is more suitable for lighter loads and smaller items. The structural design of pallet racking allows for storing bulky goods and materials, making it ideal for warehouses requiring high-density storage solutions.
Material handling equipment
Pallet racking systems often require specialized material handling equipment like forklifts for efficient operation. Due to their height and weight-bearing capabilities, racks are designed for use with machinery that can reach and maneuver within their configurations. Shelving units can often be accessed manually, requiring less specialized equipment. This distinction is crucial for businesses evaluating their existing infrastructure and equipment needs.
Flexibility
Shelving systems offer greater flexibility in terms of configuration and adaptability. Adjustable shelves allow for easy modification to accommodate changing inventory requirements.
pallet racking systems are more static once installed, offering limited flexibility for adjustments. For businesses experiencing fluctuating storage needs, shelving provides a more adaptable solution.
Cost
While pallet racking systems may require a higher initial investment because of their structural complexity and material strength, they often offer better long-term value, especially for businesses requiring high-capacity storage.
How Is Pallet Racking Measured?
How to Measure Cross Beams
To measure beams, you measure 2 things: The beam length and the beam face.
Beam length. The correct method to measure a crossbeam is to start at the inside of one upright frame and measure its length to the inside of the opposite upright frame. A typical standard beam length ranges between 4′ and 9′.
Beam face. Next, you measure the crossbeam face by measuring the front of the beam from its top to its bottom. The face measurement indicates how much weight the rack/beam can support. A large beam face supports heavier loads, while a small beam face supports fewer loads.
How to Measure Uprights Frames
There are 4 measurements you must take when measuring uprights:
Frame depth. This measures the distance from the outside of one upright post face to the outside face of the other post. This dimension affects the wire mesh size as well as any other pallet supports used. The standard dimension of a rack upright frame should be between 36″ and 48″.
Frame height. This dimension measures the distance from the bottom of the footplate to the top of the upright frame. Start measuring right above the baseplate to the top. Uprights come in various heights, with common heights ranging from 8′ to 24′.
Frame width. This dimension measures the width across the outside face of the upright post.
Post depth. This is the dimension from the outside face of the post to the inside edge of that same post.
How Do You Measure the Depth of a Pallet Rack
The depth of the pallet rack is the same as the frame depth. The most common frame depth (front-to-back) is 42,” with other common dimensions being 36″ and 48″.
How to Measure Wire Decking
The depth of the post (upright frame) is the depth of the wire decking.
To confirm, measure the width of the wire decking by measuring from one outside edge of the post to the other outside edge. They should have the same dimension.
Wired decking sizes may vary depending on the decking materials.
7 Things to Consider When Buying Pallet Racking
Safety
Proper design and construction of pallet racks is the most important aspect of a successful project. Safety is always a top concern. Various manufacturers can handle the same capacity but some provide additional protection for abuse and engineer their products with higher safety factors.
Area to be Racked
The first step in the proper design of a warehouse racking project is knowing the area being considered for storage. Everything from width, height, elevation and accessibility to the space are important. All of these are essential things to consider when planning your new rack space. Climate is also very important. For example, freezer, cool or ambient environments require different products.
SKU Mix
The various number of SKUs being stored in a particular area is a major factor to the design. The 4 main designs to consider are ‘low SKU-high volume’, ‘high SKU-high volume’, low SKU-low volume’ and ‘high SKU-low volume’. Many customers will have a combination of these products, regardless the SKU/Volume mix must be identified to provide the proper type of system.
Type of Lift Truck Being Used
On the initial design phase, identifying the lift truck that’s most appropriate for your SKU mix and area to be racked, is important. Do you have existing lift trucks that the rack needs to be designed for? Are you open to new lift equipment? These questions need to be answered prior to initial design work.
Throughput Volume
How many lift trucks will be used in the facility? Is a large/open area required for greater efficiency? When you have high-volume throughput, you’ll want to try to have even traffic flow throughout. Eliminating “hot spots” or high volume areas for lift trucks to possibly collide is important for the safety of your workers. Tunnels, aisles and doors should all work together with the rack layout to make the operation run smoothly.
Objective
Do you just want to store the most number of pallets possible in your space? Do you want to utilize the space you have better? Do you need to redesign to make your operations more efficient? Do you want the pallet rack to make your space look better aesthetically? These are other considerations that need to be addressed.
Budget
This may seem like a no brainer. Is there a predetermined budget? Budget can affect design and ability to maximize your storage space. It is always a smart idea to consider your ROI. The design and racking used can greatly influence your throughput and efficiency for the future. Consider future gains when determining your budget.
Our Factory
Founded in 2015, Guangzhou JustBest Logistics Equipment Co., Ltd. is mainly engaged in R&D, design, manufacturing, installation and after-sales service of warehousing equipment. As a promoter of logistics storage solutions, we provide customers with the highest quality products and warehousing solutions. We have 20 years of experienced engineering team: more than 20 engineers-level professional service teams around the world, and many experts from the company's research institutes and design institutes as backup forces for after-sales service.
Ultimate FAQ Guide to Pallet Racking
As one of the most professional pallet racking suppliers in China, we're featured by quality products and low price. Please rest assured to wholesale discount pallet racking in stock here from our factory. Contact us for customized service.