Increase the Storage Capacity with Drive-in Racks
Online, September 28, 2013 (Newswire.com) - Every growing organization, at a certain point of time in the future, may temporarily run out of space. Even though this does not happen overnight, it slowly creeps up and develops a series of conflicts between groups, divisions or products competing for equal space. So, instead of leasing or building additional area, it is better to take a close look at how the existing space could be utilized.
Now, with the introduction of the Drive-in Racking system storage space can be increased and utilized to the maximum. This system requires minimum aisle space and is the ideal solution for storing pallets of the same SKU in large quantities. The drive-in racks are a safe system for stacking products which are too fragile to be piled on top of each other.
The Drive-in racking systems apply the "Last Pallet in is the First Pallet Out" principle or otherwise termed as the LIFO inventory rotation for loading and unloading. This system makes use of ground rails to guide the pallets or truck and to protect the installation. The productivity of the Drive-in racks is increased by the use of high visibility upright guards. In case of any damage, there is quick replacement as the entry guides are not connected to the ground rails.
The Drive-in racking system consists of an upright frame, top beam, pallet rail, support arm, entry on the pallet rail, ground guidance, entry on the ground guidance, back-bracing and the back-stop. They are easily installed with simple support arms to hold rails and can be fitted to a pallet rack.
The Drive-in racking system is of three types namely
1) Single Drive-in Racking
2) Double Drive-in Racking
3) Drive Through
These rack systems are a cost-effective solution to high-density storage. By following the six simple steps given below, storage space can be increased within the existing facility.
1. Clear out unused items. By selling or scrapping those increases the storage space and saves money.
2. Remove obsolete or out-dated products in the storage system.
3. Minimize or eliminate the staging areas by placing products directly in a waiting trailer.
4. Try to make use of the full height available in the building by increasing the stacking from two pallets to three pallets high.
5. Use the right racks for the need.
6. Analyse the inventory and lay out the warehouse.
To conclude, the specification of the racking system needs to be engineered effectively to handle the weight of the products being stored in the system. It does not make any sense to go for a low cost solution and expose the warehouse operators to dangers. Therefore extend the lifespan of a warehouse by using the correct storage rack for the need.