The Science of Warehouse Storage: Why Used Pallet Racks Work
There’s a science to an efficient warehouse. You need everything placed strategically to optimize your storage, workflow, processing, and safety. The layout patterns you choose, the way you use space, and the material handling equipment you use all make a big difference.
The more efficient things are, the lower your operational costs and the higher your throughput will be. When you consider that labor costs consume between 50% to 70% of operational costs, efficiency is central to controlling costs.
Types of Pallet Racks Used or New
The pallet racking used is key and must be designed for storage in an organized, easily accessible manner. There are several types of pallet racks for handling different types of material and storage needs, including:
- Selective Pallet Racks: The most common type, allowing direct access to each pallet. Ideal for businesses with varied inventory that requires frequent rotation.
- Drive-In/Drive-Through Racks: Designed for high-density storage, these allow forklifts to enter the rack structure to retrieve pallets, maximizing space.
- Push-Back Racks: Enable pallets to be stored on inclined rails, where they are pushed back as new inventory is added. Best for last-in, first-out (LIFO) inventory systems.
- Flow Racks: Incorporate a gravity-fed system where pallets move automatically from the loading area to the retrieval end. Ideal for first-in, first-out (FIFO) inventory management, commonly used in food and beverage industries.
- Double-Deep Racks: Store two pallets deep per slot, effectively doubling storage density in the same footprint. These are a great option for warehouses looking to optimize space while maintaining a moderate level of inventory accessibility.
- Cantilever Racks: Designed for long or bulky items such as lumber, pipes, or furniture. These racks feature arms extending from a central column, providing open storage that accommodates oversized goods.
Why Used Pallet Racks Are a Smart Choice
Used pallet racks can be a good alternative to new ones, especially if you’re looking to lower upfront costs. When you find good used material handling equipment from a reputable supplier, you can often reduce your costs by 30% to 50% without compromising on quality or safety.
Cost-Effectiveness
pallet racks can represent a significant upfront expense, especially for small to medium-sized businesses or startups. Used racks, however, provide the same core benefits at a fraction of the cost.
Durability and Structural Integrity
Pallet racks are typically constructed from high-quality steel and built to last for years. Used pallet racks that are inspected and maintained regularly can perform as well as new ones.
A reputable supplier can make sure used racking maintains its structural integrity to meet load-bearing requirements for your use.
Availability
When you buy new pallet racks, there’s often lead time necessary for manufacturing or customization. Used pallet racks are generally available right away. The secondary market typically offers a wide variety of rack types and configurations, so it’s typically easy to find what you need.
Flexibility for Expansion
Used pallet racks also provide flexibility, especially for businesses with growing or changing storage requirements. As your warehouse evolves, used racks can be repurposed, expanded, or replaced without the expense of buying whole new systems.
Supporting Sustainability
Choosing used pallet racks aligns with sustainable business practices. You can extend the lifecycle of existing materials to reduce waste and avoid the environmental impact associated with manufacturing new racks.
Buying Used Pallet Racks
Used pallet racks strike a balance between affordability, functionality, and sustainability. For many businesses, they are a practical solution to getting the pallet racking they need without breaking the bank.
However, you need to be selective. Before committing to a purchase, you need to focus on a few key factors.
Inspections
This is the big one. You need racks that have the structural integrity for how you want to use them. Look at their load capacity and ensure they meet your storage requirements. Ask for documentation or maintenance records, if available, as well.
Look specifically for:
- Signs of damage
- Wear and tear
- Rust or corrosion
- Bent supports
- Missing parts
Compatibility
If you’re adding to your existing layout or replacing racks, make sure they will integrate with your storage systems and layout. You’ll need to verify measurements, upright heights, and aisle space to make sure any pallet racking used in your operations will work.
Supplier Reputation
Always work with a reputable supplier that inspects equipment and is transparent about condition and pricing. You need to know exactly what’s available and any potential areas of concern before investing.
You can trust Conesco Storage Systems for all of your material handling needs. As one of the nation’s largest liquidators, we have access to a broad variety of used and almost-new pallet racking to outfit your warehouse.
Call Conesco Storage Systems at (303) 690-9591 or contact us online for a free consultation.