Available in various configurations, racking systems are designed to hold goods, materials or pallets safely and efficiently. This makes racking systems an essential tool in warehouse logistics and stock management.
In particular, using a racking system allows for the efficient storage of goods, SKU type organisation, improved packing speed, clear aisles and reduced product damage.
While maximum safety and efficiency represent the ideal scenario, there may come a time when the racking system you are using is no longer fit for purpose.
Logical Storage Solutions is here to guide you on the top signs to look out for which suggest an upgrade to your system is needed without delay.
You’re Hitting Capacity Limits (Horizontal & Vertical)
During peak periods (i.e. Black Friday or Christmas) warehouses can struggle to find space. This can easily lead to delays and backlogs. Additionally, if your business has expanded, the available space in your warehouse may no longer be adequate.
If the size of your facility isn’t the issue here, then overcrowding or under-use of vertical space are the next probable causes of a lack of storage capacity.
In terms of a solution, if floor level racks are full and a sideways expansion isn’t possible, then
Logical Storage’s high-level pallet racking, VNA racking or mezzanine-floor systems could let you grow vertically instead.
Likewise, if aisles are too wide (wasting floor space) or too narrow (impeding forklifts/material handlers), switching to a more suitable configuration (i.e. wide-aisle, VNA narrow-aisle or mobile racking) can enhance density and accessibility.
However, the first step is to recognise the issue, since hitting capacity limits can soon grind your entire operations to a halt.
Safety, Compliance Or Maintenance Concerns - Especially Wear Or Damage
Safety is also something which cannot be ignored. If your racks are showing wear or the listed capacity is unclear or outdated, it’s a serious issue.
A professional pallet racking inspection from Logical Storage Solutions is also warranted. Our services can highlight any serious issues such as visible rack damage, wear, misalignment or uncertainty about load ratings.
Additionally, we also offer a pallet racking repair service.
For instance, if our inspections reveal issues such as compromised uprights, beams or anchoring, upgrading damaged sections or re-specifying racks could prove to be a more cost-effective option.
Inefficient Workflow, Slower Picking Or Warehouse Congestion
As a business involved in warehousing or stock management, you don’t need us to tell you how costly an inefficient workflow can be.
Of course, there can be many reasons for inefficiencies within a warehouse. But often, the answer is related to more strain being put on the warehouse layout than it was originally designed to handle. This means your warehouse could be under-designed for its present day demands.
For instance, if picking or packing paths, forklifts or handling routes have become congested, it may be time for a layout rework. Aspects to consider here include slotting and zoning areas, as well as adjusting aisle rack layouts.
Inventory Types Or Throughput Have Changed
Finally, it’s worth remembering that the flexibility of any warehouse unit lends itself to different uses. This could include a change of business type or simply a change in the types of items stored or manufactured by the same company.
For example, if a business transitions from palletised loads to bulkier, irregular or varied-size items (i.e. medium cartons, long items or mixed SKUs), shelving changes may be required.
Or, if turnover or throughput has increased (requiring faster pick, pack and dispatch cycles), more dynamic systems like shuttle racking, drive-in or push back racking may be more efficient than traditional static racks.
For high density or high throughput warehouses, a mezzanine floor can offer the logical next step when simple rack expansion no longer suffices. Adding a mezzanine can reduce travel time, improve accessibility and increase capacity.
In short, an upgrade is needed in these instances because your racking system needs to match how your business operates now, rather than being based on inventory you stored 5-10 years ago.
A good rule of thumb is that whenever inventory patterns change, the layout and racking system should be reevaluated.
Logical Storage Solutions - Discover Our Racking System Solutions UK
If you can relate to any of the above challenges, then it’s high time to upgrade the storage system of your warehouse or stockroom.
At Logical Storage Solutions, our team specialises in racking systems, including pallet racking and warehouse shelving.
Let us know about your project requirements by sending us a message.
You can also speak with our experts by calling 0845 689 1300.