What Is Selective Pallet Racking?
Selective pallet racking is a versatile type of pallet racking system that allows for easy storage of palletized products. By far, selective pallet racking is the most commonly used system in warehouses and distribution centers. The term “selective” is used to describe this type of pallet racking system as it allows you to select and move any pallet from the system without having to move any other pallets.
A selective pallet racking system is ideal for warehouses that operate on a first-in, first-out inventory management basis and need regular, easy access to a wide range of SKUs.
Components of a Select Pallet Racking System
A basic selective pallet racking system is made up of uprights and beams. The beams (or crossbars) lock in to the uprights. The uprights are made up of two vertical posts which are reinforced with horizontal and diagonal struts for bracing. Uprights also have footplates bolted or welded to the bottom of the post. Footplates allow you to bolt your upright to the floor.
Beams are installed onto the uprights to support the pallet racking system horizontally. Decking is then added on top of the beams so that pallets can be securely stored within the system.
Wire decking and pallet supports are the most commonly used decking types, however, you should review your local fire codes and safety requirements to ensure that you’re selecting the right type of decking for your selective pallet rack system.
Things To Consider When Choosing a Selective Pallet Racking System
There are numerous things to consider when building your selective pallet racking system. First, you should decide whether you need a single or double deep system. Secondly, you need to consider the punching styles of your beams and uprights, which can vary depending on the manufacturer.
Single deep pallet racks can store single pallets with direct access to forklifts. A single deep pallet rack system is scaled up by either installing adder bays to create a single row of consecutive racks or by positioning single deep racks back-to-back for front and rear access to your products. If you have a variety of different products, single deep racks are the way to go.
Conversely, double deep systems allow you to store two pallets on your rack - one in the front and one in the back. The disadvantage of double deep racks is that it reduces forklift access as the front pallet needs to be removed to access the rear one. Because of this, double deep pallet racks systems work best if you are storing a large number of identical products.
Punching styles are another important factor when building your selective pallet racking system. The main types of punching styles are:
- Teardrop - Identifiable by the teardrop-shaped holes on the upright. The beams that attach to the uprights slide into the holes, making it easy to adjust the heights of your beams. Teardrop pallet rack is the industry standard because of it’s easy installation and interchangeability.
- Structural - Beams and uprights are secured by bolts and connectors
- Speedrack - Beams and uprights utilized a clip system to adjust the height of the beams
- Ridg-U-Rack - Beams attach to the uprights using a safety pinch clip
- Republic rack (sometimes called Keystone racking) - Operate similarly to a teardrop rack in the way that the beams attach to the uprights but are labeled as such because the holes look like a keystone.
Punching styles are mainly dictated by the requirements of your existing selective pallet racking system. Teardrop rack is the most popular and widely used type of system. Republic, or keystone racks, aren’t as common but are still utilized in legacy warehouse systems.
If you need help determining the requirements for your punching styles and/or whether you need a single or double deep system, reach out to us today.
Advantages & Disadvantages of Selective Pallet Racking
Here are some of the biggest advantages of using a selective pallet racking system:
- Selective pallet racking systems offer the lowest cost per square foot versus other systems
- You can use standard forklifts without the need for special equipment
- Because selective pallet racking systems are the most common systems, equipment is readily available and are in-stock and ready for same day pickup or next day delivery here at American Storage & Logistics
- It is easy to adjust the system due to the modular nature of the beams and uprights
Here are some reasons why selective pallet racking might not be the best solution for your warehouse:
- Storage costs can be increased for higher volume warehouses when using selective pallet rack
- Because aisles are naturally created between the rows of your pallet racking, this can lower the storage density of your warehouse
- Uprights are typically available in fixed sizes, so there are limitations in terms of the storage height
Is Selective Pallet Racking Right For My Warehouse?
Although selective pallet racking systems are the most commonly used type of pallet racking in warehouses, they may not be the best for yours. The only way to determine if this type of system fits your needs is by considering the following factors:
Product specifications
Always start with your products. Ask yourself, “How many different SKUs will I be storing?”. The racking system that you use will be dictated by the variability in the types of products you are storing, the weight of your products, and the type of pallets you are using. Selective rack works best when storing a wide variety of SKUs, while a drive-in pallet racking system would work best when you have a large quantity of a few SKUs.
Equipment
If you have a standard forklift, a selective pallet racking system would work well for you. If you have specialized equipment, then you should factor that into your warehouse design as you may need to account for additional aisle space which could reduce your storage density.
Space
The amount of space in your warehouse is another important factor to consider. You need to know your ceiling heights, where columns are located, and if other components could get in the way of planning where to place your selective racking system. It’s recommended that you get a professional warehouse designer or create your own rack layout drawing to avoid over-or under-purchasing components for your racking system. You might also ask your local dealer if they’d let you return any product you purchase and don’t need.
Cost
Because selective pallet racking is the most commonly used system, it’s much easier to acquire the components needed to build one out. Our online shop, www.aslmhc.com , makes it easy to buy uprights, beams, starter bays, adder bays, and pallet rack components - 100% online. As mentioned earlier, compared to other types of pallet racking, selective systems are the most cost-effective.
Buy Your Selective Pallet Racking Components Online Today
American Storage & Logistics offers same day pick or next day delivery to the mid-Michigan areas, including Grand Rapids, Lansing, Battle Creek, and Kalamazoo. If you’re planning to build your selective racking system you can purchase all the pieces you need by clicking here to shop our selection of in-stock inventory. Buy today, get racking tomorrow with American Storage.
Don’t know where to start? Inquire about our professional warehouse design services today.