A well-organised warehouse speeds up order processing, which increases customer satisfaction. Making the best use of warehouse space is not only a matter of logistics but a strategic approach. Among the other storage solutions available, Selective pallet racking and pallet shuttle systems are two of the most popular options. But how do you choose between them? To answer the question thoroughly, let’s first shed light on the differences of each system and guide you towards the optimal choice for your needs.
Understanding Your Inventory: The Starting Point
Before we discuss the specifics of each racking system there’s an important step to take which is; understanding your inventory’s characteristics. For enlightenment and clarity, here is a quick exemplary case study involving a motor oil company with a vast inventory of several stock keeping units(SKU), each stored on pallets with a minimum of 26 pallets per SKU. Initially, the company utilised a 1-deep selective rack system, which, despite its advantages, fell short in providing the highest density storage solution for their expanding inventory.
Seeking a solution, the company contemplated a pallet flow rack system to enhance storage density. However, after a thorough evaluation by Krost Shelving and Racking, a leading provider of material handling solutions in South Africa, a pallet shuttle system was recommended as the superior alternative, enabling storage of up to 50 pallets in depth in both First In, First Out (FIFO) and First In, Last Out (FILO) configurations. This decision was based on a meticulous comparison of the selective rack, pallet flow rack, and pallet shuttle system, focusing on pallet positions, layout and pick flow, and cost.
Selective pallet racking Vs. Pallet shuttle racking: A Comparative Analysis
Selective pallet racking offers greater flexibility and immediate access to each pallet, making it suitable for warehouses with a wide variety of SKUs and where immediate access is crucial. Pallet shuttle racking, on the other hand, is optimised for high-density storage of fewer SKU varieties and uses an automated system to enhance storage capacity and reduce manual labour.
Pallet shuttle racking provides a higher density storage solution by utilising space more efficiently and allowing for deeper storage lanes, compared to Selective pallet racking, which requires more space for aisles to allow forklift access.
While Selective pallet racking relies on manual forklift operation for loading and unloading pallets, Pallet shuttle racking uses automated shuttles, reducing the risk of operator error and potentially increasing efficiency and safety in high-volume environments.
Advantages Of Selective pallet racking
- Selective pallet racking systems are designed to be straightforward and user-friendly, minimising the risk of accidents and ensuring a safe working environment. Their simplicity does not compromise on safety, making them a reliable choice for various warehouse operations.
- This racking system can be customised with a range of accessories, including wire cages, steel plates or mesh, timber decking, and support bars. These additions enhance the functionality of heavy-duty shelves, allowing them to meet diverse storage requirements and accommodate different types of goods securely.
- Organisations that handle a large number of stock keeping units (SKUs) will find Selective pallet racking especially beneficial. The system’s design facilitates easy access to all pallets, making it easier to manage inventory with multiple SKUs.
- The system’s flexibility is one of its key advantages. Selective pallet racking can be adjusted or relocated with ease, ensuring that the warehouse layout can evolve alongside the business’s needs. This adaptability, combined with unfettered access to all pallets, supports speedy operation and efficient warehouse management.
Benefits Of Using Pallet shuttle racking System
- The system is user-friendly, requiring minimal training for operators. This simplicity ensures a smooth integration into existing warehouse operations.
- By optimising storage space and reducing the need for manual handling, the Pallet shuttle racking System saves both time and operational costs, making it an economically efficient storage solution.
- It significantly lowers the risk of accidents for operators and minimises potential damage to equipment and inventory, promoting a safer workplace.
- Designed to maximise storage capacity, this system allows for the efficient organisation of high volumes of goods, making it ideal for warehouses with space constraints.
- The system’s adaptability makes it suitable for a variety of warehouse layouts, including those with irregular spaces, enhancing overall storage efficiency.
- Meticulous organisation of pallets, which facilitates quick access and retrieval, streamlining the inventory management process.
Cost Implications
Transitioning to a more efficient system, like the pallet shuttle, might seem costly upfront but is often less expensive than relocating operations. Surprisingly, the total cost for the pallet shuttle system’s material is marginally higher than that for the selective pallet system, debunking the assumption that automation necessarily leads to higher initial expenses. Get a quote from Krost Shelving and Racking today!
Differences Between Selective Pallet Racking Vs. Pallet shuttle racking System
The case study illustrates that while Selective pallet racking offers flexibility and accessibility, it may not provide the best density for operations with large quantities of the same SKU. The pallet flow system, although efficient for certain layouts, could potentially waste space due to its design constraints. The pallet shuttle system emerges as the leader in optimising storage density, particularly for similar products stored in bulk, by combining the benefits of automation with efficient space utilisation.
Conclusion
Whether your operation will benefit more from the adaptability of selective pallet racking or the high-density storage of a pallet shuttle system depends on your specific operational needs. By understanding your inventory, evaluating your space, and considering your growth projections, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your business objectives, ultimately ensuring that your storage system contributes to, rather than constraints, your operational efficiency and success. Contact Krost Shelving for more expert information.