A warehouse racks producer is a key element in an efficient and organised warehouse. It is vital that the warehouse racks fit your exact needs.
Maximising space
Warehouse racks maximise the use of space and organise products efficiently. They should allow easy and quick access to all goods picked from them.
Racks need to be strong and made well, but the layout of the racks and how goods are organised is important too. A warehouse racks producer will have considerable experience in the best ways to lay out racks. They will consider each area of the warehouse, the offices, packing stations and goods receiving stations, and plan the rack layout around these locations.
Analysis of stock demand will reveal the items that are in highest demand and these may be better stored closer packing stations to minimise the average distance pickers travel.
Long rows of racks are usually better than short ones. Avoid L-shape arrangements if possible, as these can be difficult to navigate.
If there are columns or other hindrances in the building, racks need to be organised to minimise obstructions that can hamper the free flow of picking trolleys and forklifts.
The budget
All warehouses have budget constraints, but when it comes to racks, it is false economy to buy the cheapest ones. Inexpensive racks will not last as long as better quality ones. The ideal rack is constructed well and built from strong tubular steel but is also value for money. Unlike many equipment items that are made in China or the Far East, British made racks are best. They are fabricated by skilled metalworkers, built to last and are not expensive.
Utilising vertical space
As a business grows it needs to increase its inventory of goods. If rack space is running out, a solution is to utilise all the vertical space in the warehouse. Many rack systems are expandable and extra shelves can be added.
Constant improvements
It is rare to achieve the perfect warehouse layout. Aim for the best layout, but be prepared to change it. The Japanese apply Kaizen in their industries, which is the philosophy that small but regular improvements add up over time to massive change.
Regularly review the warehouse processes and improve a little at a time. Just because a system is working well does not mean it cannot be improved. Massive changes can meet worker resistance, but small regular changes are easier to implement.
Safety
Safety is paramount in warehouses, especially where heavy items are handled. All workers need safety training, such as how to place and remove items from warehouse racks without twisting the body or straining. They should be trained in safely pushing or pulling picking trolleys.
Every warehouse rack has a load limit suitable for the goods stored on them. This limit should never be exceeded.
Warehouse racks are built to be robust, but collisions with equipment or forklifts can damage and weaken them. Racks need regular inspections for damage and faulty racks or rack components replaced.
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