Most prevailing warehouses, distribution centres, and storage facilities share similar primary objectives: maximising storage density, optimising space usage, certifying production safety compliance, and maintaining flexibility to meet order fulfilment demands. Very narrow aisle (VNA) racking and selective pallet racking are popular storage solutions that are gold standards for useful warehouse management. Both systems excel in stock accessibility and practically use vertical warehouse space. However, their distinct features and use cases differ. Therefore, exploring their contrasts is fundamental to determining the right fit for various business needs.
This article outlines the differences between VNA vs. selective pallet racking, outlining their advantages, accessories, applications, and practical implications for warehouse managers. You’ll clearly understand which system matches your storage goals best by the end of it.
Contrasting VNA vs. Selective Pallet Racking
Why Warehouse Managers Choose VNA Racking
VNA Racking Overview
Very Narrow Aisle (VNA) racking is designed to maximise storage capacity by limiting aisle widths to as little as 1.8 meters. This configuration allows warehouse managers to utilise more of the available space for storage while maintaining direct access to each pallet.
Main VNA Racking Advantages
VNA racking optimises space by restricting aisle width. These systems offer up to 50% more storage capacity than standard racking systems. It improves inventory accessibility, allowing free access to each pallet. It is ideal for operations requiring high SKU variety. VNA systems boost height exploitation, reaching substantial heights and taking full advantage of vertical warehouse space.
They are operationally efficient and decrease picking times with specialised VNA trucks or cranes that retrieve goods precisely and quickly. Lastly, advanced VNA systems promote safety and accident risk by including guidance rails or wire guidance systems for material handling equipment.
VNA Racking Accessories and Applications
VNA racking systems can incorporate specialised accessories to improve functionality, including:
- Wire guidance systems that guarantee accurate navigation of material handling equipment.
- Guide rails that prevent forklifts from damaging the racks and manoeuvre effectively in tight spaces.
- Column guards that protect the racking structure from impacts.
- Decking panels that provide support for non-standard pallet sizes or loose items.
Applications for VNA racking include:
- Warehouses with limited floor space but significant vertical clearance.
- High-density storage facilities handling diverse SKUs.
- Industries requiring rapid stock rotation and precise inventory control, such as e-commerce and retail.
Why Selective Pallet Racking is So Common
Selective Pallet Racking Benefits
Selective pallet racking is one of the most used storage systems, renowned for its simplicity and versatility. It provides easy entry to every pallet, proving a trustworthy choice for warehouses prioritizing flexibility and accessibility. The benefits of selective pallet racking include adaptability. It accommodates a range of pallet sizes and types. Additionally, it is a dynamic system that’s relatively easy to install, adjust, and reconfigure.
Selective pallet racking is economical, with lower upfront costs than high-density systems like VNA or drive-in racking. It is impressively accessible, allowing full reachability to each pallet without tailored handling equipment. Finally, this solution is adaptable and can be integrated with other storage systems like mezzanines or flow racks to strengthen performance.
Learn more about the comparison between selective pallets and mezzanines by reading, Rack-Supported Mezzanine Floor vs. Selective Pallet Racking: Combining Storage and Space Utilisation.
Selective Pallet Racking Accessories and Applications
Accessories for selective pallet racking include:
- Beam safety clips that prevent accidental dislodging of beams.
- Row spacers that maintain alignment between back-to-back racks.
- Frame protectors that shield upright frames from forklift damage.
- Wire mesh decking that certifies load stability and supports non-standard loads.
Applications for selective pallet racking are diverse, including:
- Warehouses with high SKU turnover.
- Operations requiring frequent stock rotation.
- Facilities with moderate storage density needs and ample floor space.
VNA Racking and Selective Pallet Racking Differences in the Modern Context
The choice between VNA and selective pallet racking hinges on multiple factors, including storage density requirements, warehouse layout, production speed, and budget constraints. Below are the key differences:
Space Utilisation
- VNA racking maximises vertical and horizontal space by decreasing aisle widths.
- Selective pallet racking requires wider aisles but offers greater flexibility in layout design.
Accessibility
- Both systems provide open pallet access, but selective pallet racking doesn’t need specific equipment.
- VNA systems necessitate VNA-specific trucks, increasing their expenses.
Cost
- VNA racking involves elevated installation, and equipment costs due to its complexity and the need for custom forklifts.
- Selective warehouse pallet racking is more affordable at the onset and suits smaller budgets.
Operational Efficiency
- VNA racking offers faster picking in high-density environments but demands faultless equipment handling.
- Selective pallet racking supports broader production adjustability, accommodating a mix of fast-moving and slow-moving items.
Scalability
- VNA systems are great for long-term scalability in high-density storage scenarios.
- Selective pallet racking’s modular build makes expansion or reconfiguration as needed simple.
Conclusion
Choosing between VNA racking and selective pallet racking is based on your warehouse’s specific needs, including storage density, budget, accessibility, and organisational priorities. selective warehouse pallet racking remains a versatile and inexpensive solution for warehouses with dynamic requirements, while VNA racking is optimal for facilities requiring maximum space utilization and high SKU variety.
Warehouse managers can optimise storage efficiency, improve productivity, and meet the demands of modern supply chain enterprises by understanding the advantages, applications, and differences between these two systems. For expert guidance and a wide range of racking solutions, contact Krost Shelving and let us help you find the perfect fit for your facility.
