Convenience has become the order of the day in present societies. Big business has developed advanced ways to better cater to consumer needs, cutting delivery order fulfilment from several days to just a few hours. Distribution centres and e-commerce warehouses have had to adapt accordingly and have created solutions to obtain operational excellence. Such solutions include picking shelves.
With numerous warehouse order picking shelving systems available, selecting the best picking shelves can make all the difference. Warehouse picking systems are central to order picking and are fundamental to any supply chain process. As you survey the existing options, you must begin by familiarising yourself with the different types of picking systems, price ranges, and key features to look for in a setup that balances both cost and functionality.
Let this complete guide walk you through everything you need to know about picking shelves for your warehouse or distribution centre.
Explaining Picking Systems
So, why are picking systems so important, and how do they influence the selection of shelves? Picking systems define the method used to fetch items from storage to fulfil orders. The common types of picking systems are summarised below.
Manual Picking
Manual picking is a labour-intensive form of product recovery. Since workers physically retrieve items from the shelves, this system requires structured shelving systems that optimise human movement and minimise the time spent reclaiming items.
Automated Picking
Automated picking relies on mechanics such as conveyor belts or automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS) to fetch goods. With these solutions, shelves must accommodate both human and machine access and depend on rugged and flexible configurations.
Batch and Zone Picking
Batch and zone picking are unconventional strategies where goods are picked in groups or designated zones within the warehouse. Modifiable and efficient shelves should be used here to facilitate group picking or multiple-order processing.
Your warehouse’s picking system will heavily influence the picking shelf variety needed. On one hand, manual picking setups will benefit from easy-access shelves, while on the other automated systems need sturdy racks that can interface with machines.
Types of Picking Shelves
Now that we have reviewed picking systems, we can overview the most applicable kinds of picking shelves. The picking shelves relevant to your warehouse will be determined by the picking system used. Here is a list of prevalent shelving solutions:
Carton Flow Shelves
Carton flow shelves are ideal for first-in, first-out (FIFO) systems. They use gravity to move products forward for fast and easy access. These shelves are perfect for fast-moving SKUs (stock-keeping units), where time is of the essence.
Selective Pallet Racking
This is one of the most universal types of warehouse shelving. It gives direct entrance to each pallet, so it is suited to manual and other order-picking pallet racking. However, it takes up more space than other shelving options.
Mobile Shelving Units
Mobile shelving is dynamic and adjustable. It can be moved based on changing stock levels, making it great for warehouses with fluctuating inventory. Mobile units provide maximum versatility but maintain effortless access to products.
Modular Shelving
For small operations or e-commerce businesses, modular shelving provides affordable and variable storage solutions. It can be specialised to fit the exact needs of the warehouse. Compared to selective pallet racking, modular shelving optimises confined spaces.
Each shelf type has unique features that accommodate distinct operational needs, and the choice should correspond with your picking system and workflow.
Points to Reflect On
Selecting warehouse picking shelves needs reflection on multiple factors that impact cost and functionality. The main elements to evaluate include the characteristics mentioned below.
Durability and Weight Capacity
Your shelves must withstand the weight of the products they store, so high-density shelving is ideal for heavier items and lighter shelves can be used for small parts or light products. Factor in the long-term durability of the shelves because they must endure constant use.
Accessibility
Warehouse picking systems are unproductive without frictionless entry to goods. Shelves with open designs free workers to pick items more readily, reducing the time spent searching for products.
Adjustability
Product sizes and volumes differ and so should your shelves. Therefore, opt for adjustable shelving units that can be altered as your stock changes. This will save you from costly overhauls when your business expands.
Space Utilisation
Optimal use of space is the main aim of any warehouse. Tall racks maximise vertical space, whereas narrower aisles allow more shelving units to fit within the warehouse. Take note of the dimensions of your warehouse and how shelving can be optimised for better space utilisation.
Cost
It is important to balance functionality and finance. While some shelves might seem expensive initially, their toughness and efficacy can save you money in the long run by improving productivity and reducing the need for frequent replacements. Take the time to assess the total cost of ownership over time.
For more order-fulfilment insights, read: How to Improve Order Fulfilment with Efficient Warehouse Design.
Balancing Cost and Functionality
It’s tempting to emphasise either cost or functionality while selecting picking shelves, but finding a balance is a game changer. This balance can be achieved by targeting high-traffic zones. You should identify areas in your warehouse where items are picked more regularly and capitalise on them. Purchasing more durable and accessible shelving in these zones can improve operations, even if it costs more. You should also choose flexible systems. Shelves that are versatile enough to be adapted as your business grows will eliminate the need to replace or overhaul your system entirely when product lines grow. Finally, although some A-grade shelving systems may have a steeper initial cost, they are sturdy, space maximising, and reduce maintenance costs. These long-term savings must be accounted for when deciding on your shelving solution.
Price Ranges for Picking Shelves
The picking shelves prices fluctuate based on the kind of shelving, materials employed, and additional aspects like automation compatibility. Here’s a general overview of what you can expect:
Basic Shelving Units
Basic shelving starts at around R5,000 per unit and complements manual picking systems in smaller operations. Basic units are budget-friendly but may lack the resilience expected of larger-scale operations.
Mid-Range Shelving
Mid-range shelving typically presents greater strength, adjustability, and higher weight capacities, and is priced aptly between R10,000 and R20,000 per unit. It is suitable for larger warehouses that use a mix of manual and automated picking systems.
Advanced Automated Shelving
Advanced automated systems integrate with automated picking technology so they can cost upwards of R50,000 per unit. The hefty price tag comes with exceptional productivity. Advanced shelving is most compatible with high-volume distribution centres.
As you wade through all the information on picking shelves, it’s vital to consult with a supplier like Krost Shelving to get an accurate price estimate based on your organisation’s specifications.
Final Thoughts
This thorough guide has covered “how to choose the best picking shelves” for your warehouse or distribution centre and explained the worth of carefully selecting your picking system. Opt for a system based on product weight and available space. Also, remember to balance cost with functionality so you can procure shelves that serve your current and anticipated warehousing needs.At Krost Shelving, we have a variety of shelving solutions designed to help you find the most suitable warehouse picking system. Our extensive selection spans basic shelves for manual picking to advanced units for automated systems, so we’re equipped to help you. Contact Krost Shelving today for a personalised quote that fits your business needs.
