Top 6 Categories of Warehouse Storage Systems

One of the initial steps that we always consider in devising an organized and functional warehouse is to choose our storage system(s). This isn’t a choice that should be considered lightly. Providing heavy equipment storage services in California, we’ve observed that warehouse storage systems are a significant capital investment. It depends on the design and method they fit into our warehouse floor plan and processes, either helping or hurting our throughput. 

Presently, as there are various categories of warehouse storage systems on the market, it’s important to be familiarized with the options before being sold on one that might not support either your layout or your urge for flexibility. 

To let you know more about the big world of warehouse storage systems and storage services in Los Angeles, in this article, we’ve identified a list of the 6 most common types. They are as follows: 

1. Pallet Racking 

Generally, pallet racking systems are considered to be the focal point of the operation for the busiest and largest warehouses. Usually, pallet racking systems are comprised of wood, or plastic and hold inventory that is received in large boxes. It is based on the height that the boxes are positioned on the pallet racking system with the help of a forklift or an automated mechanism. 

There are many sub-categories of pallet racking systems, including cantilever racking, carton-flow racking, double-deep racking, coil racking, drive-in racking, drive-through racking, mobile racking, high-bay racking, narrow aisle racking, pallet live racking, push back racking, shuttle racking, and vertical racking. It has been mostly observed that warehouses will choose systems depending on flexibility, weight limits, and whether or not the system demands any modification in infrastructure. 

2. Static Shelving 

Simply going by the name, static shelves are storage mechanisms that are meant to stay in one place. For the major part, they are designed to hold inventory that is quite lightweight, maybe a few hundred pounds per shelf. It’s mostly utilized for storing inventory that requires continuous replenishment. 

As they’re completely incompatible with forklifts, static shelving is usually applied with inventory that has to be placed, picked, and/or organized manually. Invest in a wide-span shelving system for your larger inventory to hold additional weight. It can also be utilized in higher-elevation configurations.  

3. Mobile Shelving 

Just like static shelving, mobile shelving is an entirely adjustable solution that is designed to hold your manually-picked items. However, the difference here is that several of these systems are meant to hold extra items in less space. Mobile shelving allows shelves or cabinets to be mounted on carriage and rail systems. It eliminates fixed aisles and increases productivity by making inventory more accessible, even if there are any space constraints. 

Usually, mobile shelving designs comprise level tracks that can either be manual or mechanized. A few of them are even equipped with locking systems to regulate access to inventory. 

4. Multi-Tier Racking 

An amazing choice for large stocks of items featuring small unit sizes, multi-tier racking is a system, designed to capitalize on vertical space. As no warehouse is one-size-fits-all, several multi-tier racking options are flexible, with the ability to include or remove tiers. Everything depends on your present needs. 

Predominantly, multi-tier racking concerns comparatively lightweight items that are manually picked and organized. To get the optimum utility out of this warehouse storage system, we strategically arrange each tier and pack items as densely as possible. Simultaneously, we focus on weight limits and ceiling-to-rack height compliance guidelines. 

5. Mezzanine Flooring 

If there is a limited budget and the strategic warehouse layout permits it, mezzanine flooring is an effective and space-saving storage option. Ideally, mezzanine flooring is a second, third, or fourth floor that is constructed above the main warehouse floor. 

Due to the intrusive nature of the build, this will possibly be one of the more expensive options that a warehouse may opt for. However, it also has the maximum potential for customized features, such as lift systems, lighting, and conveyors. 

6. Wire Partitions  

As mezzanine flooring is one of the more high-tech options, wire partitions are on the other end of the spectrum. Effectively, wire partitions happen to be strategically-placed wire cages designed to be installed and torn down faster and easier. 

Mostly, the inventory that is stored within wire partitions is the items that require extra security. A few warehouses even use wire partitions to develop makeshift, temporary offices for managers who work on the floor. 

Conclusion 

So, there is a wide range of warehouse storage systems available and, in the future, warehouse storage systems will become more affordable, lightweight, and technologically advanced. As the best moving company in California, we can suggest you that, don’t be sold on a system that doesn’t suit your needs. Rather, you should choose one that has enough flexibility to support your operation while it flourishes and grows.