If your company has determined a need for racking, perhaps to replace damaged upright frames or to create additional storage, doing an internet search for “warehouse racking” will produce a high number of results. Selecting the best racking for your application can be overwhelming.

Before meeting a Storage and Handling consultant, it is beneficial to review your current process for moving product and any challenges to eliminate. Use ProLift’s guide to get started.

Where do you plan to store the product?
The designated location will determine the length, width and height of the racking. Take note of obstacles preventing easy access or safe equipment operation, including overhead obstacles such as heaters. If you know the number of pallets you need to store, ensure the location allows for this amount of space.

What types of forklifts are in use?
The types of forklifts available will dictate the aisle width between racking. For example, a sit-down counterbalance forklift will need a larger aisle compared to a stand-up reach truck and this may decrease the amount of installed racking. Determine if you must use the forklifts already at the facility or if you will budget for a unit that may be more effective than your current equipment.

How large are the pallets?
The size of the pallet will determine how many pallets can be stored on each shelf of racking; however, you must adjust dimensions if you have product overhang. If you have multiple pallet sizes, consider racking options that allow for flexibility.

What is the weight of your pallet?
Record the weight of your heaviest pallet to determine proper storage capacity to handle the load. The density of the product may also give you the option to double-stack the product.

How is your product distributed?
Your racking must be built to handle distribution processes in the warehouse. If your process is First In First Out (FIFO), racking options are different than Last In First Out (LIFO) process. If your production has a busy season, determine if the product can be stored in bulk.

HAVE A CURRENT NEED? For racking and thousands of other material handling products, shop online with ProLift’s interactive catalog. Or, request a quote from our Storage and Handling consultant.