Pallet Flow Pallet Racking
You have many choices when it comes to selecting a pallet racking system for your warehouse. Depending on how much storage capacity you require and how quickly you need to access your products, you can choose the best system for your operations. If you are concerned with maximizing space in your warehouse and maintaining high selectivity, you may find that a pallet flow racking system is an ideal fit.
What Is a Pallet Flow Racking System?
With pallet flow racking, pallets are loaded from the rear onto rollers, and then roll to the front of the rack. Pallets loaded after this follow and end up behind those loaded prior, until that row is full. Product is then unloaded from the front, supporting a first in/first out (FIFO) approach.
Pallet flow racking systems are a type of gravity flow system that relies on gravity to load, retrieve and organize stored pallets. These systems use downward-sloped conveyors to allow gravity to do the work. Pallets and products naturally find their path, with gravitational force filing them through in an orderly fashion. Pallet flow racking systems can also be customized with speed controllers installed in each lane to ensure that the pallet travels safely along its path.
Types of Pallet Flow Rack Rollers
There are different types of pallet flow rack rollers to accommodate the needs of different applications. These types include:
- Full-width rollers: These are the most flexible roller option on the market. They offer reliable width support, making them ideal for applications with multiple pallet sizes.
- Magnum rollers: These are best-suited to freezer storage applications and pallet loads over 3,000 pounds. Magnum rollers are the most durable roller type.
- Skate wheel rollers: These cost-effective rollers are typically used in pallet flow rack systems that have short lanes and use standard wood pallets.
What Are Pallet Flow Racking Systems Used for?
Pallet flow racking systems are often used in manufacturing applications where many pallets of the same items are stored. These systems typically store:
- Products with quick turnaround
- Perishables
- Staging
- Freezer items
Pros and Cons of Pallet Flow Racking Systems
Pallet flow racking allows you to store high volumes of products and access them quickly. They require slightly more maintenance than other systems to keep rollers in good condition, but they are excellent for space savings. Here is an overview of the pros and cons.
PROS
- Very dense
- Fluid and easy flow, moving from the back to the front – Reducing forklift travel
- Compatible with standard forklifts
- Fast product retrieval
- Versatile and customizable for use in a wide range of applications
- Saves space
- Reduces strain on workers
CONS
- Ability to select any item is limited
- Higher price point
- Must maintain quality and uniform pallets to ensure roller compatibility
- Requires periodic roller maintenance
Is a Pallet Flow Racking System Right for My Warehouse?
If any of the following applies to your warehouse, a pallet flow racking system could be an excellent solution:
- Date-sensitive products: If you store date-sensitive products like perishable items, pallet flow racking systems allow for continuous inventory rotation.
- Cold storage: Coolers and freezers are expensive. Pallet flow rack systems help you get the most out of these areas by allowing you to store products densely and access them efficiently.
- Limited space: If you need a racking system that helps you save on space, pallet flow racking systems are the perfect choice. They make efficient use of floor space, as only one aisle is needed for loading. They also allow you to maximize vertical space, as pallets can be stored as high as necessary.
Why Buy From Arnold Machinery Company?
We partner with each of our customers and strive to offer the best products and superior service. As part of our Silver Service® guarantee, we do everything we can to make sure you are completely satisfied with your experience.
Visit one of our locations in the western United States or contact us today to learn more or request a free quote.
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