Warehouses apply different methods of pallet stacking, depending on the products they store. Some systems of storage are safer and more efficient than others. Stacking systems can be combined, and in some cases, more than one system can be applied in the same warehouse but different areas. This also depends on how the managers want the stocks to flow.
Choosing the appropriate system of warehouse storage has several benefits. These include better work process, improved space utilisation, and overall business efficiency. But it is also important to choose the specific warehouse equipment such as IBC bund and pallets, especially for industrial warehouse set-ups.
Here are some storage systems for warehouses and their benefits.
Automated Warehouse Storage System
Using the automated storage system allows easier storage and retrieval of items using a computer-controlled mechanism or device. This system works best with small-item retrieval, which is harder for a human picker to find.
The mechanism or the computer-controlled device can safely retrieve items from higher locations with this system. But there is also the risk of having a computer or mechanical failure.
Pallet Racking System
This is cheaper and more efficient than others. It is done by storing several pallets in a framework to allow easier access to specific pallets at any time. Thus there is less potential for failure to locate items than with other systems.
With this system, human pickers can easily access stocks using ladders and forklifts anywhere it is in the warehouse. But pallet racking system should also stick to the safety requirement determined by the design and stability of the racking system.
Block Stacking System
This is the most basic type of warehouse stacking systems. Here, the pallets are individually placed on the floor and stacked on top of another. The pallets are organised in blocks or lanes so that each one can be accessed easily.
It entails a simple form of storage, and there is no investment in racking so it is very cheap to maintain. On the other hand, block stacking can also be very space-intensive, and retrieval of stocks can lead to inefficient utilisation of the warehouse storage capacity.
Pallet Flow System
This warehouse storage system is a bit on the sophisticated type. It involves a conveyor belt system within a pallet racking framework. This conveyor system allows for easy movement of heavy goods, especially in industrial plants. It lessens the utilisation of forklifts and forklift operators. The beauty of using this system is the easy movement of goods from one point of the warehouse to another.
Push Back Storage System
This is another warehouse storage system that works using a pallet racking framework. However, it operates like a vending machine. Once an item is removed in the front space, the next item moves forward.
This is on a larger scale than the pallet flow system and will need forklifts for organising. It is best used for goods that will be loaded and unloaded because the downside of this system is that, you will not be able to access the goods in the middle of the system.
These are just a few of the warehouse storage systems being utilised for efficient and organised handling of goods. Depending on the type of goods that will be stored in the warehouse, there will always be a specific type of system to apply and appropriate equipment to use.
