Take the necessary actions to ensure that your warehouse runs at its full potential. That includes choosing the racking system that’s best for your operations. Here are tips on how to make smart decisions and minimize buying risks.
Consider Your Product and SKU Data
What kind of products do you handle? How many Stock Keeping Units (SKU’s) does this include? These are parts of the equation that will help to tell you what kind of industrial storage racks will be best for your inventory. In certain scenarios you might even consider automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS). They can drastically improve the overall production capacity of your warehouse.
Think About Your Existing MHE
Your racking system and MHE (material handling equipment) need to be compatible. For instance, you wouldn’t use a reach truck to enter a Very Narrow Aisle (VNA) rack system.Depending on what type of rack system you want, you may need to change your method of MHE. If you already have existing MHE, are you willing to buy new ones, in the event you need to?
Check the Weight and Size
What products do you store and handle? That will impact the final design of your racking system. If you are overseeing the construction of new building, make sure you keep the overall area and point load capacity in mind. Once the concrete has been poured, the strength of the concrete in your warehouse is already predetermined. Work together with your rack manufacturer to make sure you pick a racking solution that can handle the size, weight, and volume of your inventory.
Look to the Future
Do you have plans to scale your system? If you want to expand your business in the future, that means the needs of your warehouse will evolve as well. It’s a good idea to consider pallet racking solutions that are flexible and agile enough to adapt to changes within your organization. Think about any expansion plans you develop a storage solution that accounts for them when you set up your warehouse today.
Assess the Industry
What other industry factors might change the way you do business? Are you in a fast-growth or fast-moving industry? What about available real estate and costs? Just look at how the pandemic has overturned businesses around the world. Think about changes that can impact your stock handling. Determine how your business might respond to them to ensure as much efficiency and productivity as possible.
For guidance in determining the best racking solution for your needs, contact Frazier today at (800) 859-1342 or frazier@frazier.com. With over 70 years of experience, we have the abilities to help you create a turnkey storage system for whatever your needs may be.
