By ‘making the most’, we mean using the warehouse to its optimum, so you store goods at the volume you require, while running the operation as efficiently as possible. The pallet racking you choose must meet your needs.
So, before you go ahead and invest in a new warehouse storage solution, it is well worth taking time to consider what your goals are and then selecting adjustable pallet racking which helps you meet these goals.
We have seen many examples of businesses which go ahead and invest in a storage solution without giving due consideration to what they need, so they end up buying equipment that doesn’t suit their purposes.
And this is a shame, because the beauty of adjustable pallet racking is that it is so versatile, and with so many applications, that there is an option to suit almost any warehouse environment.
Top considerations before investing in adjustable pallet racking
1. Look at your data profile
What do we mean by this? We mean, analyse all your data: your order book, how you fulfil each order, what types of goods you need to store, how quick the turn around is, whether there are seasonal trends etc.
Once you have gathered this information, you can make a much more informed decision on the pallet racking you need, instead of taking a guess.
For example, your operation may suit an automated or fully automated solution, particularly if you are looking to reduce labour costs. These require a large initial investment, but can prove more cost-effective in the long-term. If, however, you are located in an area where labour costs are low, this may not be a consideration.
2. What equipment do you already have?
Here we are talking about equipment such as forklifts, which you may want to hang on to for use in your new facility. If this is the case, then you will want to avoid a building where storage at height is necessary because your forklifts will not be able to reach.
3. What size pallets do you use?
There are many different standard pallet sizes, which vary depending on where they originate from: European standard pallet sizes are different to UK standard pallet sizes, and different again to global pallet sizes with ISO certification.
Therefore, you need to ensure your pallet racking can accommodate the pallets that come into and out of your warehouse. It makes sense to invest in adjustable pallet racking, where the height between the pairs of the beams, and distance between the uprights, can be adjusted to accommodate your pallets of choice. You will need to design your racking layout to meet your pallets’ requirements.
4. What type of product are you storing?
The type, weight, shape and size of your product will all help to dictate the type of pallet racking you need to invest in and its subsequent layout and design.
For example, if you have products (such as food) that require a fast turnaround you may consider a FIFO (first on, first off) pallet racking system, where it is essential (due to expiration dates) that the items are picked and despatched in a set order.
5. What is your budget?
This is possibly the most important question of all: what are you prepared to pay and what return on investment are you expecting? For example, with an automated or semi-automated storage solution you can expect a larger initial investment, but the ongoing costs (such as wages and energy bills) will be lower. For you, this may represent a good return on investment.
Ultimately, if you want a solution that is fit for purpose, you must expect to invest in quality pallet racking, from a reputable manufacturer who offers subsequent service and support plans, so you know your investment can be maintained.
If you would like to talk to one of our experts about pallet racking and what options may be the best for you and your business, please get in touch. We would be delighted to help.