Have you ever thought about which storage system could optimise the space in your warehouse? Live pallet racking or push back racking are among the most highly recommended systems. What causes these systems to be preferred? As industrial storage experts, We’ll give clear answers and differences between the two, for you to determine if one could be the solution for maximising space usage and improving efficiency in your company. We will also investigate their distinct advantages to assist you in making a well-informed choice.
Live Pallet Racking vs Push Back Racking: What’s the Difference?
Explore our live pallet racking solutions also known as FIFO systems, which follow the First-In-First-Out principle. This system has gravity-fed racks where the pallets are automatically moved from the back to the front, as the older stock is used.
This system is the most suitable for products that necessitate precise rotation, so that older inventory is always selected first. Industries that manage food and beverages, or any other perishable goods, regularly use live pallet racking to maintain levels of freshness and reduce waste.
Benefits of Live Pallet Racking
- FIFO racking systems ensure the oldest products are always picked first, reducing waste and maintaining stock quality.
- Multiple pallets can be loaded in deep racks, increasing warehouse space without the need for additional aisles.
- Reduced forklift movement as products are automatically carried from the front of the rack.
- Best choice for industries that depend on quick stock turnover and strict product rotation.
Drawbacks of Live Pallet Racking
- A greater amount of money is needed at the beginning due to the more complex system of live pallet racking, resulting in a higher initial cost. Discover our guide to carton live racking cost in SA for more insight.
- This system may not be suitable for all products, especially those that do not need FIFO stock rotation.
- Regular upkeep is necessary to guarantee the efficient functioning of the gravity-fed shelves.
Push Back Racking: How it Works
Push back racking uses a LIFO racking system (Last-In-First-Out), where pallets are loaded onto sloppy rails, pushing previous stock backward. When a pallet is removed, the next pallet automatically slides forward. This system is perfect for non-perishable goods that don’t require strict stock rotation.
Push back racking allows for dense storage while providing quick and easy access to the most recently added stock. It’s often used in industries where the speed of loading and unloading is prioritised over product rotation.
Push Back Racking Advantages
- The last pallet loaded is the first pallet removed, offering quick access to recent stock.
- Like live pallet racking, push back racking makes the most of available space, allowing multiple pallets to be stored in deep racks.
- The system allows for quick retrieval of goods, ideal for fast-moving stock.
- Forklifts don’t need to enter the racking structure, reducing the risk of damage and improving safety.
Disadvantages of Push Back Racking
- Since it operates on a LIFO system, it’s not suitable for items that require strict stock rotation.
- Similar to live pallet racking, push back compact systems costs are higher due to the inclined rail mechanism.
- The system can only store a limited number of pallets deep before access becomes less efficient.
Operational Suitability: Which System Should You Choose?
The choice between live pallet racking versus push back racking will always lead to what your needs are.
Live pallet racking is ideal for industries where product shelf life and stock rotation are critical. Businesses in the food, beverage, or pharmaceutical industries benefit most from the carton live racking benefits, which help maintain product freshness.
Push back racking is most suitable for warehouses keeping goods that take a while to deteriorate and that require quick access without the need for frequent rotation. Fast-moving stock that requires space to be used efficiently can be well served by the advantages of push back racking.
Conclusion
Your choice between the two well-known racking systems should depend on your individual requirements. If you need to constantly rotate your products, the live pallet racking with its FIFO principle is an excellent option. However, push back racking offers quickness and effectiveness for goods that do not need to be rotated.
At Krost Shelving and Racking, we offer the best FIFO and LIFO storage solutions tailored to your needs. Our team of experts are ready to provide personalised advice that can help optimise your warehouse space and improve overall efficiency. Contact us today to discuss how we can enhance your warehouse operations and ensure you choose the right racking system for your business.
