How to design your pallet rack layout around your warehouse columns

Those who have attempted to organize the pallet rack configuration may understand the frustration of working around building columns. Avoiding columns interrupting the racking or drive aisles may appear daunting, but achieving an optimal pallet racking design with well-planned building column spacing can mitigate frustration and optimize available storage space in the building.

 

Building Columns:

 

Building columns serve as the vertical supports for the facility’s ceiling, coming in various designs and sizes. Typically spaced around 40 or 50 feet apart by structural engineers and architects due to standard manufacture member lengths. By designing your building around the equipment using a pallet rack design tool, you can effectively utilize these lengths to maximize the facility’s space.

 

Optimizing Pallet Rack Layout:

 

Optimizing the rack layout is crucial as you can’t haphazardly place pallet racking within the warehouse. Factors such as staging areas, shipping and receiving zones, and forklift types need consideration. Efficiently drawing up the layout to accommodate obstacles and columns is essential, often best achieved with the expertise of a pallet rack design company specializing in warehouse facility layouts.

 

Layout Importance:

 

To avoid building columns encroaching on racking areas or within fork truck drive aisles, two strategies can be employed: positioning the rack where the building columns align within the racking or situating the pallet racking to incorporate building columns into the flue spaces. The spacing between pallet racks and the fork truck drive aisle depends on the dimensions of the forklift to be used during racking placement.

 

Flue Space:

 

Flue spaces refer to the gaps between back-to-back rows of pallet racking connected by row spacers, typically 12 inches long. These spaces allow pallets to overhang at the back while accommodating building columns and fire suppression systems within the racks if necessary. By utilizing flue spaces, standard building columns (10” x 10”) can be integrated into the racking without sacrificing pallet storage locations.

 

Warehouse pallet rack design challenges

 

Designing pallet rack systems to accommodate permanent warehouse obstructions such as building columns and equipment presents a challenge. The goal of pallet rack design remains to maximize warehouse inventory storage while minimizing the system’s footprint. Ensuring safe passages for equipment and products, as well as the safety of employees, is also paramount. If you’re unable to control the layout of building columns, minimizing storage loss while maintaining the integrity of the racking system becomes essential.

 

Here are the challenges related to pallet racking from the standpoint of the rack system:

 

• Ensuring columns don’t block aisle access for vehicles or pedestrians.
• Incorporating columns into the rack design may reduce the system’s storage capacity.
• Placing columns within the rack systems can pose integrity challenges for the system.
• Dealing with an ineffective warehouse layout.
• Failing to designate specific areas for different tasks.
• Using the correct storage equipment in appropriate spaces.
• Having a comprehensive understanding of inventory needs.
• Planning for future growth proactively.

FAQ’s

 

How can I ensure that building columns don’t obstruct aisle access?

 

It’s crucial to plan the layout carefully, either aligning the racks with the columns or incorporating them strategically into the design. This can be achieved through precise measurements and utilizing tools like pallet rack design software.

 

Will incorporating building columns into the rack design impact storage capacity?

 

Yes, it might. When columns are integrated, it could reduce available space for storage. However, with careful planning and optimization, this impact can be minimized to ensure efficient storage capacity.

 

What challenges do building columns within rack systems pose?

 

Building columns within rack systems can present integrity challenges, affecting the stability and structural integrity of the racks. It’s essential to address these challenges during the design phase to ensure the safety and durability of the system.

 

How do I deal with an ineffective warehouse layout in pallet rack design?

 

Addressing an inefficient layout involves strategic planning and consideration of factors such as staging areas, shipping and receiving zones, and forklift accessibility. Consulting with experts in pallet rack design can provide valuable insights and solutions.

 

Why is it important to designate specific areas for different tasks in warehouse layout?

 

Designating specific areas ensures efficient workflow and organization within the warehouse. This helps streamline operations, improve productivity, and minimize disruptions, ultimately optimizing overall efficiency.

 

How do I select the right storage equipment for my warehouse space?

 

Choosing the correct storage equipment involves assessing the dimensions of the space, inventory requirements, and operational needs. Consulting with professionals familiar with warehouse logistics can help in selecting the most suitable equipment.

 

What steps should I take to understand my inventory thoroughly?

 

Conducting regular inventory audits, analyzing inventory data, and forecasting demand are essential steps to gain a comprehensive understanding of inventory needs. This helps in optimizing storage space and ensuring adequate stock levels.

 

How can I plan for future growth in pallet rack design?

 

Planning for future growth involves considering scalability and flexibility in the rack design. This includes leaving room for expansion, implementing modular designs, and investing in adaptable storage solutions to accommodate changing business needs over time.

 

Conclusion

 

Effective pallet rack design is essential for maximizing warehouse storage while overcoming challenges like building columns and equipment obstructions. By carefully planning layouts, strategically incorporating columns, and using tools like pallet rack design software, businesses can optimize space and ensure safe access. Addressing issues such as inefficient layouts and selecting the right equipment is crucial for improving workflow efficiency. With proactive planning for future growth, businesses can create adaptable systems that meet evolving needs, ensuring long-term success in warehouse management.