Are you looking to maximise your warehouse space using a racking system but are uncertain which one to choose? If you’re concerned, we’ll discuss two popular options — flow racking vs. cantilever racking to help you make a decision. Although both storage solutions fall into the ‘racking’ category, they are different and offer unique benefits based on the goods being stored and the available space. We will breakdown and discuss the differences, outline their main advantages, and discuss the related costs to assist you in determining the most suitable choice for your requirements.
Flow Racking vs. Cantilever Racking
Flow racking, popularly known as a carton live system, is a storage solution curated for businesses that deal with high volumes of goods that need to be rotated quickly. This system uses gravity to move stock forward, in that way old products are picked first based on the first in, first out principle ( FIFO). It’s a handy set up for food, cosmetic, pharmaceutical or any sector whose products become out-of-date.
On the other side of the coin, our cantilever racking system is ideal for storing long or bulk items like timber, steel pipes, or furniture. It has an open design with no vertical posts in the front, which makes it easy to load and unload large or strange shaped products.
Above all else the main difference is their purpose, flow racking is for fast-moving, smaller items, while cantilever racking is built to handle large, heavy goods that don’t fit standard pallets.
Carton Live System Benefits
A carton live system, part of the broader flow racking family, brings several benefits to businesses. Its structure reduces manual handling by automatically moving products forward. This saves time and increases productivity.
The system also saves space. Since items are constantly moved to the front, making it easy to use every inch available of space, and cutting down on wasted room. This solution presents a great choice for warehouses with high turnover rates.
Another key benefit of buying flow racking is how it improves order accuracy. Because stock is always in a clear and easy-to-reach position, pickers are less likely to make mistakes, leading to fewer costly errors.
Cantilever Storage Advantages
Cantilever racking is highly adaptable for storing long, bulky, or oddly shaped products. The absence of front uprights means items can be loaded and unloaded from the front without obstruction, making it a flexible option for storing materials of varying lengths.
This type of racking is also incredibly strong and durable. Cantilever racks can handle heavy loads, so if your business deals with products like timber, pipes, or heavy steel beams, it’s a sturdy and reliable choice.
Another advantage of cantilever racking is its modular nature. You can easily adjust the arms to accommodate different product sizes. This flexibility allows you to scale your storage system as your inventory changes over time, saving you from the hassle of constant reconfiguration.
Flow Racking Costs in South Africa
When considering flow racking, the upfront costs can be higher than traditional static shelving. This is largely due to the complexity of the system, which uses rollers or conveyors to move products forward. However, the long-term savings in labour costs and increased productivity often outweigh the initial investment.
Flow racking systems are cost-effective for businesses that need to prioritise speed and accuracy. While the cost might seem steep at first, the efficiency gained can lead to significant savings, especially in fast-paced environments where time is money.
Cantilever Racking Costs in South Africa
Cantilever racking, like flow racking, can also require a significant initial outlay, especially if you need a heavy-duty system. However, its durability means it will last for many years without needing much maintenance.
The cost of cantilever racking in SA depends on the size, load-bearing capacity, and materials used in construction. It’s typically more affordable than flow racking for businesses that don’t need the constant stock movement feature but need a system that can handle large, heavy items.
Conclusion
We’ve been helping businesses find the best storage solutions for over 5 decades. We supply industrial flow racking and cantilever racking systems tailored for any warehouse. We’ll guide you through the selection process, making sure you get the right storage solution for your sector.
With our expertise, we’ll help you maximise your space, improve efficiency, and ensure your storage setup is as cost-effective as possible. Contact Krost shelving and Racking today to learn more about how we’ve assisted businesses to grow with the right racking solutions.