Among all the warehouse racking options, Catwalk Racking and Very Narrow Aisle (VNA) Racking are the heroes of space optimisation. These systems may not be similar in their design, but they share the rare traits of making the most of available space and improving storage efficiency. Your facility may have peculiar requirements that make you wonder which one is right for your needs. As you make your way through this article, you’ll discover the differences between Catwalk Racking vs. VNA Racking. You’ll also get to know their benefits, so you can more readily identify the best racking solution for your warehouse operations.
Breakdown of Catwalk Racking vs. VNA Racking
An Overview of Catwalk Racking
Catwalk Racking is a multi-level storage system created with walkways for workers to access higher levels of shelving without specialised equipment. This system is ideal for warehouses seeking to maximise vertical space and accommodate manual picking processes. The walkways, or “catwalks,” make all items accessible. It is highly effective for operations that have stock that’s picked frequently. Krost’s Catwalk Racking (or Pick Face Racking) has narrow pick aisles and condensed cross aisles to lessen the waste of valuable warehouse space.
Catwalk Racking Differences
Catwalk racking’s most important difference is its multi-level storage. The system uses the full height of the warehouse with its multiple storage floors that occupy limited ground space. It also has high accessibility levels since it provides direct entry to each level through built-in walkways, eliminating the need for ladders or mechanical lifts. Another great feature is the customisability of its design. Catwalk Racking offers flexibility in layout because it can be individualised based on specific warehouse needs.
Catwalk Racking Benefits
The system makes excellent use of space as it utilises vertical space with additional storage levels. Therefore, catwalk racking significantly boosts storage capacity. This system is a more affordable solution for many businesses because of its cost-effectiveness. Its configuration eradicates the need for expensive material-handling equipment. Catwalk racking’s improved picking speed allows workers to navigate the walkways easily and reduces the time it takes to locate items. Thus eventually increases productivity.
An Overview of VNA Racking
Very Narrow Aisle (VNA) Racking, as its name suggests, is perfect for warehouses with narrow aisles because it is built for more racking to be fitted into the available floor space. This solution is mainly used in conjunction with tailored forklifts or cranes that are made to negotiate narrow spaces. It is a fitting alternative for high-density storage operations. Krost’s VNA Racking comes with material handling equipment that has radio frequency controls to help save you warehousing time.
VNA Racking Differences
This kind of racking is valued for its orderly use of aisle width. VNA racking’s difference is highlighted by its need for much narrower aisles than traditional racking systems. This multiplies the amount of storage space without expanding the warehouse area. And like catwalk racking systems, VNA racking systems optimally use a building’s height. VNA racks take full advantage of the vertical space and have the capacity for taller racking configurations. This system requires special material handling equipment, such as narrow aisle forklifts or cranes, to move items efficiently.
Very Narrow Aisle Racking Advantages
VNA racking makes the most of your available floor area and allows for more racking to be installed because of its constructive use of floor space that minimises aisle width. It is a high-density storage solution that is best for warehouses with large inventories, extending both vertical and horizontal space. Although it requires specialised equipment, its narrow aisles, and well-organised layout enable faster retrieval of goods.
Which Racking System is Right for You?
The decision between Catwalk Racking and VNA Racking varies largely on the type of products you store, the size of your warehouse, and the material handling processes you use.
Catwalk Racking is perfect for warehouses that emphasise manual picking and need quick access to regularly handled stock. Its multi-level design makes it a top pick for operations that need flexibility and accuracy in manual handling because it optimises vertical space without requiring expensive machinery.
VNA Racking is best suited for warehouses with larger inventories where maximising floor space is key. This system provides a high-density solution that can greatly improve storage capacity. If you have the budget for specialised equipment and want to use your warehouse more fully, choose this racking.
Conclusion
Choosing between Catwalk Racking and VNA Racking is determined by your warehouse’s current and future needs. Both systems are distinctly beneficial. Catwalk racking is the right system for a manual facility that requires flexibility, but VNA racking provides supreme storage density in a compact space. To select the best between Catwalk Racking vs. VNA Racking for your operations, list your operational priorities, available space, and equipment requirements and see which one fits. For expert advice and customised racking solutions, contact Krost Shelving and Racking to find out how we can help you organise your warehouse inventory.