Efficient and cost effective inventory management is an important part of running a successful business. One way of optimizing inventory management is using pallet racks. A pallet is a flat carrying structure that holds item in a secure and durable manner as it is being lifted for transport. A pallet also allows for safe and efficient storage of items and makes moving the items easy. Businesses have a variety of options when it comes to selecting a particular type of pallet racks allowing them to find one that meets their business needs.
When a business selects a pallet rack system, they have to determine how the racks will be utilized. That is, what types of items will be stored and the type of warehouse space. When choosing a pallet racking system, a business should have knowledge about the model and make of the pallet, and how it will improve warehouse efficiency.
Types of pallet racks include:
Block Pallet: Also known as a ‘four-way’ pallet, block pallets are strong and durable pallets. This type of pallet makes use of perpendicular as well as parallel stringers to make handling and transporting more efficient. A pallet-jack lifts it from four directions.
Stringer Pallet: Often referred to as ‘two-way’ pallets, given that a pallet-jack only lifts it from two directions instead of four. This type of pallet utilizes a frame of three parallel pieces of wood known as ‘stringers.’ The top deck boards are then fastened to the stringers to make the pallet assembly.
Perimeter Base Pallet: This type of pallet allows a pallet-jack to lift it from all directions as its base is omni directional. It allows a pallet to be turned to rack it.
Firmer pallets are sturdier and are handled more easily by mechanized equipment. Two-way pallets are normally used if one does not have to lift the pallet from its four sides. A second row of pallets are situated behind the first row of pallets. This is a good choice if one has a large quantity of one particular type of item. ‘Push-Back’ pallet racks are another type of pallet rack system. Slide pallets will slide back on sliding carts or rails which gives one the ability to retrieve items easily and quickly from a back row. As well, there are ‘Stacking’ pallet racking systems that are stacked on one another which permit more items to be moved with fewer moving trips. There are also pallet racks that give one the ability to modify the shelf dimensions to suit the storage space and there are heavy duty industrial pallet racking systems that are designed to withstand harsh outdoor environmental conditions.
No matter what type and size of items that has to be transported and stored, there is a type of racking that will meet the needs every business. Pallet racking can be used in all sizes of businesses that require inventory storage and they are a cost effective and efficient way of improving warehouse operations. There are pallets that are easy to load, place, and unload allowing the business to operate more smoothly.
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