Drive-in racking is a highly efficient, high-density storage system which is ideal for warehouses that need to maximize the use of available space. Unfortunately, if installed or planned incorrectly, it can be highly unsafe, inefficient and expensive to fix. To maximize the effectiveness of this type of storage system in your warehouse, we have listed some common pitfalls to avoid when planning your drive-in racking installation.
One of the primary errors is to install drive-in racking systems without first studying the layout and workflow of your warehouse. Forklifts need to have clear access in and out of this system. Poorly designed aisles can mean traffic jams, decreased productivity, and unsafe environments.
Pro Tip: Always have a pro do a layout assessment before installation.
Not all stock is right for drive-in racking. This system works best for homogenous products stored in bulk. Installing it on a mixed or irregular inventory, meanwhile, may create operational problems.
Tip: Analyze your storage needs, the type of stock you carry and how often it turns over before you sign up.
Overloaded racking is a dangerous practice which could result in racking failure, product damage and injury. Load calculations are left out of installation practices by many businesses.”
Pro tip: Always stick to the manufacturer’s guidelines for weight restrictions and try to distribute the weight evenly.
Drive-in racking needs column protectors, pallet stops or guide rails. Eliminating any of these to reduce costs will pose a greater risk of forklift collision and rack damage.
Pro tip: When putting it up, be sure to spend a few bucks on safety additions that will save you a lot of money on repairs down the road.
Drive-in racking appeals to those who prefer selective racking but who dislike the fact that it has forklift lanes as wide as football fields. Untrained workers can be prone to damaging your racking or pallets.
Hint: Operators in drive-in racking systems need to be specially trained.
Do-it-yourself installation or inexperienced installation can compromise the integrity of your first-of-the-line racking system. Incorrect installation, spacing or anchoring can result in expensive issues later.
Tip: Work with experts, such as All-Systems Buildouts& Installations, to ensure it is set up correctly, and it will give you years of service.
Drive-in racking is an investment in your warehouse storage that is truly transformative. So long as you steer clear of these common mistakes, from not planning to disregarding load limits and skimping on safety, you’ll enjoy a storage solution that’s both more efficient and longer lasting, and much safer.
At All-Systems Installations, we are experts in the installation of racking that is customized to your warehouse. From design to installation, we help you get it right the first time.
