Fundamentally, space optimization and controlled storage are necessary elements of our warehouse management protocols. Metal racks are the core of space and systematic storage solutions, and offer the strength, durability, and capacity to meet large varieties of space constraints and load bearing requirements.
An example to consider: if you have a warehouse or distribution or dispatch facility that requires space or a solution for hundreds of hand tools, or even a simpler example of stores and pulls of item numbers with high turnover rates space and solutions for problem storage that includes either atypical item numbers or low level pulls of item numbers, being flexible, and weight ranged from huge amounts of tools to pallet slide sizes, all require the right type of rack, as it can benefit your physical productivity and efficiency.
Let’s now take a closer look at a few examples of familiar types of racks, and how they can solve your warehousing environment.
What Is A Pigeon Hole Rack?
A pigeon-hole rack is a very effective way to identify, store, and pick all sorts of little to medium goods in a designed manner of warehouses to look into small goods and items keeping them in a slot or hole that is like a pigeon hole for pigeons to nest. Ideal for a retail warehouse with many SKU’s of small items like fasteners or electrical components or even hardware tools and machine components.
By allowing clear segregation of items, pigeon hole racks help prevent mix-ups and reduce picking time. Their modular design also means they can be expanded or adjusted based on changing inventory needs. However, they are best suited for relatively lightweight items and may not be ideal for storing bulky goods.
What Are Sheet Metal Racks Used For?
Sheet metal racks are used for the storage of large flat materials, including metal sheets, plywood, and plastic sheets. Sheet metal racks typically include sliders or pullout rails, allowing for individual sheets to slide out of the rack without disturbing the stack of sheets.
This minimizes the chance of sheet damage and reduces manual handling.
Sheet metal racks remove floor clutter and are typically a safer option than stacking sheets on the floor. Due to the specialized design, these racks may take up slightly more height compared to vertically stacking pieces of sheet metal and are usually more expensive than standard racks. Sheet metal racks are often used in manufacturing and fabrication workshops.
How Do Die Storage Racks Improve Efficiency?
Die storage racks are heavy-duty racking systems used to store moulds, dies, and machinery tools which are often heavy and valuable. They are typically equipped with rollers, pull out drawers or hydraulic systems to assist with loading and retrieval of the die.
Die storage racks allow tools to remain highly organised and readily accessible for quick retrieval, saving lost production time while maintaining workflow. With an initial higher cost for die storage racks, the efficiencies gained and wear on tools are worth it over time.
What is a Push Back Rack & Where Is It Used?
A push back rack is a clever high-density storage system that features a sloped rail with nested carts. When a new pallet is placed on the top cart, it “pushes back” the previous pallet to the back of the rack. Similarly, when a pallet is taken off, the next pallet rolls forward automatically. This system is suited for a warehouse with a Last-In-First-Out (LIFO) inventory method as well.
Push back racks greatly increase storage capacity without losing accessibility. However, they are not suitable for perishable goods or for stock using a First-In-First-Out (FIFO) inventory method. Push back racks are suited for certain distribution centres and cold storage facilities that handle high volume palletised products.
Advantages of Employing the Correct Metal Racking in Warehouses
If you use the correct type of metal rack, it can have tremendous advantages like improved space use, faster order picking, improved safety, and cleaner work areas. From pigeon hole racks for small items to push back racks for high density pallet storage, there is a solution that can address every operational opportunity. Metal racking is durable, easy to service, and can be customized for many types of industries, including manufacturing, distribution, and warehousing.
Why Mek Engineering?
When you want trusted, competent, reliable, and customized warehouse racking solutions, Mek Engineering is the company to contact. With years of experience providing the full gambit of storage systems, from die storage racks to sheet metal and push back racks, Mek Engineering knows what it takes to build a warehouse that runs like a tuned machine.
They help you evaluate your storage needs, recommend a combination of racking systems, facilitate safe and compliant installation of the systems, and provide ongoing support—an all-included one-stop shop, the modern alternative for warehouse solutions.