Sourcing Pallet Racking: The 8 Key Factors To Consider

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The UK’s continuing economic recovery means that many warehouse owners, manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers and logistics companies are now starting to look at expanding into new warehouse premises, and – as a result – investing in additional pallet racking.

Others are reorganising their existing racking systems and making better use of the available space by (for instance) reducing aisle widths.Pallet racking

Selecting the brand and type of pallet racking to install in a new warehouse is not always a straightforward process. Identifying the most appropriate brand or type of pallet racking for your pallet storage and handling requirements and warehouse configuration can be complex.

Using a reputable warehouse solutions provider to specify your pallet racking is a wise option, but to start with it helps to be familiar with the main areas that will affect the choice.

Here’s our list of factors to consider when investing in pallet racking:

  • Cost: the financial cost is a major factor but it is often not the only factor or the most important.
  • Purpose: as with any major capital project, it is important to specify the type of job that the pallet racking must do, based on the type of goods that will be stored on it.
  • Accessibility: the frequency of stock turnaround may mean that your pallet racking needs to be high access, whereas less frequently moving stock could be stored on push back racking.
  • Warehouse layout: the size, shape and height of your warehouse, the positioning of doors and windows may determine the type of racking you need.
  • Versatility: you may need to adapt the configuration of your pallet racking for different uses and pallet sizes, from adjusting existing shelf height to adding or removing shelving.
  • Robustness: durability of the racking may be a very important factor in busy warehouse environments, or in conditions of extreme weather variation.
  • Availability of spares: the availability of spare parts and components such as beams and braces that can be delivered quickly and cost effectively can be key to the continuing operation of your warehouse.
  • Availability of expert advice: similarly, the availability of suitably qualified experts to attend site and make any repairs that may be needed to your pallet racking, when they are needed will be key to keeping your warehouse operations going.

For all these reasons, it’s always sensible to invest in your pallet racking wisely – and to use the services of expert specifiers, consultants and suppliers.

Acorn Warehouse Solutions offers a full pallet racking service from the planning and design of your pallet racking solution for your specific warehouse, through the supply and installation of your racking to the regular inspection and repair of your racking infrastructure.

Contact us on 01799 532024 for an initial discussion about your requirements.