Cantilever racking and selective racking are unique systems catering to different warehouse storage needs. They are two popular warehouse racking systems that provide differing benefits. So, selecting the right racking system for your warehouse is based on the operational requirements of your facility.
Cantilever Racking vs Selective Racking
If you supply lumber, pipe, or plywood, cantilever racking may be best for your facility. On the other hand, a distribution centre needing quick access to palletised goods may find selective racking to be a better fit. If you are still unsure which is the right one, this article will help you compare these systems to decide which one truly wins.
Cantilever Racking Overview
Cantilever racking is largely used for storing long, bulky, or irregularly shaped items like timber, pipes, or furniture. It has horizontal arms extending from a vertical column that create open-front storage. Also, its design makes it a versatile choice for items that traditional pallet racks can’t freely store because it allows products to be accessed easily without vertical hurdles.
One of the main advantages of cantilever racking is its strength. This system’s adjustable arms can handle goods of varying lengths and sizes. It’s highly beneficial for businesses in industries with frequently changing stock sizes. Krost’s Cantilever Racking has single and double-entry bays, with double-entry allowing for storage on both sides. Additionally, its open structure saves time, improves operational efficiency, and supports simple loading and unloading with forklifts or cranes.
Another one of the top cantilever racking differences lies in its strength. Cantilever racking systems are optimal for sectors with large and heavy materials because they are built to withstand heavy loads. The absence of vertical columns on the front side of the racking improves space usage in warehouses with limited space. It also creates uninterrupted storage.
Selective Racking Overview
On the other hand, selective racking is a universal racking system found in many warehouses. This system is built to store palletised goods and provide direct access to every pallet stored. Selective racking contains upright frames and horizontal beams, with pallets placed on the beams. This layout is preferred for warehouses with high SKU (Stock Keeping Unit) differences because it gives ready access to all products.
One of the major selective racking differences is its accessibility. Selective racking provides advanced selectivity and reduces the time spent retrieving products since each pallet is reachable without moving the others. This makes selective racking an excellent solution for warehouses with demanding inventory management. It’s also great for setups that handle perishable goods that must be rotated regularly. Krost’s Selective Pallet Racking comes with accessories for extra convertibility.
Selective racking systems are also economical and relatively effortless to install. They are adaptable to various warehouse setups because they are simple to build. However, selective racking systems may be unsuitable for warehouses with limited floor space because they require more aisle space than more complex storage systems.
Important Differences and Considerations
The principal difference between cantilever racking and selective racking is found in the types of goods they are intended to store. While cantilever racking is best suited for extended, oversized products, selective racking is optimum for standard palletised goods. Therefore, settling on one of these two systems depends on the type of the inventory.
Cantilever racking is more versatile when it comes to irregular or large items, and it offers better space applications for items like pipes or beams. Its open construction makes it better at handling longer products because it eliminates the need for vertical frames on the front. However, it may not work for facilities that rely heavily on palletised storage. Selective racking provides a more practical solution for such settings.
In contrast, selective racking is best for warehouses that handle a high volume of diverse products because it provides immediate access to individual pallets. Its accessibility makes workflow processes smoother and improves inventory management. However, its use of more aisle space might limit storage capacity compared to other racking systems.
Which Racking System Wins?
Determining the “winner” in the debate between cantilever racking vs. selective racking is determined by your warehouse’s exact needs. Cantilever racking is more likely the superior system for large, awkward, or lengthy items due to its adaptability and maximum use of space for such products. Alternatively, if your warehouse stores a wide variety of palletised goods and requires instant entry to all items, selective racking will provide better inventory management and workflow productivity.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the decision comes down to the kind of inventory and the operational demands of your business. Both systems have special advantages, and the right pick will depend on how well each system aligns with your storage and retrieval needs. Start by exploring the premium cantilever and selective racking solutions at Krost Shelving today. Visit the Krost Shelving website to learn more and find the perfect fit for your warehouse.