All warehouses depend on efficient storage systems to manage incoming and outgoing shipments. To most Warehouse Managers the warehouse pallet rack system is one of the most important. Here’s a quick guide to help in selecting warehouse pallet rack systems:
Pallet Racks
Selective pallet racking is the most common type of warehouse storage racks. All selective racks are made with component pieces that easily fit together. Referred to as teardrop pallet rack, this requires no bolts to assemble.
Pallet Rack Uprights
Uprights are the support columns or frames that hold up individual shelves on the beams. Upright frames are often referred to as “bays” of pallet racking.
Pallet Rack Beams
Beams are used to add structure to the levels of shelving. Modern beams include 3- or 4-pin clips that attach to the uprights. Pairs of beams are used to support the loads. The height, length, and number of shelves per bay determine shelf capacity.
Pallet Rack Decking
Types of pallet rack decking available are wire mesh decks, pallet support bars, bdeck, solid wood decking, corrugated metal decking and lumber deck. The sizes of the product stored along with the type of commodity are the two most important factors. Often warehouse pallet rack requires at least 50% open shelving so wire deck is often the most common.
Configuring Pallet Racks
Pallet rack configuration will depend on the size of product and/or pallet to be stored. The overall width, depth, height and weight of the skid or pallet are essential in planning your warehouse.
Racks can be configured in single or double rows. The bay can be measured in the same fashion as the products. A good rule of thumb is to add six inches to the width of each load to get the overall bay width.
To determine the depth of uprights needed, subtract six inches from the depth of the product to allow for proper overhang. Overhang ensures that the weight of the load is distributed evenly across the beams. Lesser overhang is acceptable as a function of aesthetics. In this case additional supports are needed such as wire decking.
To get the overall rack height, add six inches to each load to get the distance between shelves. Beam height will need to be included in this measurement. Depending on the brand of racking, adding about 4 to 6 inches per shelf should leave enough room for beams.
Be certain that there is adequate room between load height of the top pallet and light fixtures, sprinkler heads, and other objects that may exist above racks.
Each rack system has details that signify which brand the racks belong to. Refer to this pallet rack identification guide when buying replacement pieces or selling your pallet racks.
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