In the highly competitive warehouse industry, it’s necessary to remain abreast of the latest developments and strategies in the field to maximize your use of available storage space, increase order-fulfillment efficiency, and improve inventory management. This is even more important today due to the increased demand for online goods and shortages of shipping containers.
Changing Racking Needs
The ongoing global pandemic has strained international supply chains and caused a significant increase in e-commerce. At the same time, workplace rules have changed to allow for social distancing, including in warehouses and distribution centers.
This has reduced usable storage space, increasing its value. As a result, many warehouses have had to adapt by upgrading their storage systems to increase picking and throughput efficiency to remain competitive while keeping their workers safe.
What has changed more than anything is the need for warehouses to remain flexible in the face of supply-chain disruptions and sudden shifts in consumer demand. To meet the rapidly changing conditions that warehouses face on a daily basis, companies that manufacture storage systems have had to design racks to be modular. The modular setup allows businesses to configure and dismantle them as needed. This simplifies relocation and adjustment, factors that have become more important in the last few years.
In addition, warehouses have had to consider everything from automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS) and robotics to sophisticated warehouse management software (WMS) to ensure orders are fulfilled efficiently.
How Used Warehouse Shelving Racks Have Evolved and How You Can Stay Current
In today’s competitive warehouse industry, staying updated on the latest trends and strategies is crucial for optimizing storage space, improving order-fulfillment efficiency, and enhancing inventory management. This is especially important as e-commerce demand grows and shipping container shortages persist.
Evolving Racking Needs
The global pandemic has significantly impacted supply chains and e-commerce growth. Meanwhile, workplace regulations, including those in warehouses, have adapted to social distancing measures, reducing usable storage space and increasing its value.
To remain competitive and ensure worker safety, many warehouses have upgraded their storage systems, enhancing both picking and throughput efficiency. The key challenge today is maintaining flexibility in the face of supply-chain disruptions and rapid changes in consumer demand.
Modular racking systems, designed for easy assembly and disassembly, have become more popular as they allow quick relocation and adjustment. Additionally, warehouses have increasingly integrated automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS), robotics, and advanced warehouse management software (WMS) to boost efficiency.
Pallet Racking Systems
Modern warehouses use a variety of racking systems to organize inventory for easy retrieval. One widely-used system is selective racking, ideal for low-volume storage with high selectivity. It’s affordable, easy to set up, and allows quick access to items. For warehouses on a budget or new setups, used selective racking is a cost-effective option. However, for higher storage density, other systems may be more suitable.
High Efficiency Racking Alternatives
For warehouses needing higher storage density, alternatives to selective racking include:
• Pallet Flow Racking: A high-density, first-in, first-out (FIFO) system that uses inclined roller lanes to transport pallets, improving both storage capacity and worker safety.
• Carton Flow Racking: Similar to pallet flow racking but designed for cardboard cartons and manual pickers, enhancing order-fulfillment efficiency.
Wire Shelving
Wire shelving is ideal for light to medium storage, offering high visibility and airflow, which keeps goods fresh. Used wire shelving is especially effective for food storage, and its open design helps fire suppression systems work effectively. Wire shelving is an affordable solution for storing smaller items, whether stationary or on casters.
Cantilever Racks
For long, heavy, or awkwardly shaped items, cantilever racks are the go-to solution. These racks are perfect for storing furniture, lumber, and metal tubing. Even when buying used, choosing the right shelving system for your inventory is crucial for modern warehouse management.
Automation in Warehousing
Automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS) are becoming more important in warehouse operations. These computer-controlled systems improve picking accuracy, efficiency, and safety. When considering used shelving, look into automation-friendly options like:
• Vertical Lift Modules (VLM): These enclosed systems reduce storage footprints while increasing capacity, ideal for limited floor space.
• Vertical Carousels: Operating like a Ferris wheel, these systems improve ergonomic access and worker efficiency.
• Horizontal Carousels: Powered by motors, these systems enhance worker productivity, especially when paired with a pick-to-light system.
Cost of Automation
Before investing in an AS/RS, consider your inventory needs, volume, and budget. Vertical lift modules tend to be more expensive, while horizontal carousels offer a lower-cost alternative. Evaluate your warehouse layout to ensure a good return on investment.
Dimensioning Systems
Manual box and pallet dimensioning can be time-consuming and error-prone. Installing automatic dimensioning systems can improve efficiency by quickly measuring and recording item dimensions.
Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
A WMS is essential for tracking and managing inventory efficiently. Integrating this system with barcode scanners or RFID tags can further enhance your warehouse operations.
Finding the Best Solution for Your Warehouse
Whether you choose to upgrade your storage systems or invest in automation, Shelving + Rack Systems, Inc. can help you configure your layout for optimal performance. With easier-to-assemble used shelving racks available, staying up-to-date has never been easier. Contact us MTS Racks to discuss the best racking options for your warehouse.
