Which Material Handling Storage Solution is Best?

When it comes to material handling, it’s not just your warehouse equipment that is important for ensuring smooth and efficient operations throughout the workplace. Something else that is important is the storage solutions you have available.

Believe it or not, there isn’t just one type of warehouse racking system with a one-size-fits-all quality. In fact, there are many different types of racking systems that warehouse owners can choose from. Depending on your individual needs and requirements, one type of racking system might be better for you than another.

We’re going to go through the racking systems that are available to you, whilst also touching on the ever-popular mezzanine flooring solution. Which material handling storage solution would be best for you? Let’s take a look:

Pallet racking systems

Pallet racking is one of the most common types of warehouse racking available. Warehouses and distribution centres in particular will work with heavy pallets of multiple shapes and sizes, and so they will need the correct type of warehouse racking to accommodate such stock.

Pallet racking systems are designed solely for the storage of pallets that contain goods. Pallet racking can be integrated with other racking systems as well as forklifts, reach trucks, pallet trucks and even order pickers. Some of the most common types of pallet racking systems include the following:

• Selective racking
• Adjustable wide aisle racking
• Narrow aisle racking
• Drive-in and drive-through pallet racking

Dynamic racking systems

Dynamic racking systems can include push-back, pallet-live and even mobile storage systems. Relying solely on gravity to do the heavy work, dynamic warehouse racking can be electronically-controlled to reduce physical strains and injury, as well as to make operations more timely and efficient all round. A more efficient warehouse storage solution when compared to its counterparts, dynamic warehouse racking is ideal if you work in an environment that:

• Is considered to be fast-paced
• Requires regular restocking of inventory
• Follows a first-in, first-out policy

Warehouse shelving systems

Warehouse shelving is perfect for premises that are small or compact. It’s ideal for storing stock that is smaller and lighter than conventional warehouse stock and inventory. Smaller goods that can be picked by hand will usually be placed on warehouse shelves, meaning this is likely you’ll find warehouse racking in smaller retail stores, warehouses and even storage lockers. Better suited to small businesses and independent companies, warehouse shelving isn’t likely to be found in larger commercial settings.

Multi-tier pallet racking or shelving

Multi-tier racking refers to traditional racking that has had additional levels and shelving added to it. A multi-tier system allows you to create even more storage space than you already had. The potential for multiple layers will enable you to keep multiple stock-keeping units well-organised and laid out, no matter the nature of stock or inventory you handle.

When it comes to multi-tier racking, several floors of racking can be integrated with a few of the other mechanical devices that are available to you. You also have the option to create various levels of manual-loading aisles, allowing you to seamlessly maximise picking operations.

Mobile shelving

As the name would suggest, mobile racking contains shelving that can be moved. However, the unit itself will remain in-situ, but the shelves can be moved along a rail for quick and easy access.

They’re typically electronically-controlled and they can be condensed as and when needed. It also allows you to leave one aisle open at a time, meaning workers can still effortlessly navigate around the premises.

It’s a low-cost storage solution for many industries, whilst also increasing your floor space. There’s no need to move to a larger premises if you’re choosing mobile warehouse shelving and racking as a warehouse storage solution for you.

Mezzanine flooring

Whether you’ve heard of a mezzanine floor before or not, it’s likely that you have come across one already without even knowing it. A mezzanine floor typically comes with one platform that sits off the floor, but with a considerable void underneath.

A mezzanine floor can be built with more than one level if needed. Mezzanine floors are typically used to build offices on top of whilst reserving the void underneath for storage of equipment, stock and other things that a warehouse or distribution centre might need.

Where we keep referencing warehousing and distribution, like the warehouse racking, mezzanine flooring can actually be installed in many different settings, meaning a mezzanine floor can be used to enhance the operations and storage facilities of any workplace, regardless of the sector or industry you might work in.

Multy Lift has over three decades of experience in the material handling industry, providing customers throughout the UK with high-quality new and used warehouse equipment, including forklifts, reach trucks, order pickers, stackers and more. We are also pleased to offer warehouse racking and mezzanine flooring as well as industrial cleaning equipment and chemicals. If you would like further information about how we can help you today, get in touch with a member of our friendly, professional team – we’re always pleased to hear from you.