Pallet Flow Maximizes Space, Minimizes Inefficiencies

2007-03-08 10:33:40

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You have many factors to consider when you plan for storage and space allocations inside a warehouse. Generally, you want to optimize utilization of floor space and of the vertical space in your warehouse; you'd also want to have more efficiency in the in-warehouse travel of your personnel and forklifts.

In some cases, you also consider storage for perishable or dated items. For such items, you would want a strict first-in-first-out (FIFO) system to ensure that stocks will not spoil or expire. You will find that pallet flow storage systems can be effective solutions for such applications.

Functionally, pallet flow systems convey loads from one end of a storage lane to the other. Each lane contains built-in wheels or some other conveyor mechanism that help to advance pallets by gravity. As you remove load from the front of a storage lane, the next load advances, ready to be picked next.

The main purpose of a pallet flow rack is to provide high-throughput pallet storage and retrieval, and optimal utilization of space. Since product flows forward to the picking point, you put the empty slots at the rear where they can be replenished. A carton flow rack system is a special variation of this system.

For these reasons, you'll want to use pallets for items that have high turnover rates in inventory. You would also want to have several pallets on-hand. This may increase your initial investment costs, particularly since pallet flow rack systems are expensive.

Despite the expense, a pallet flow rack system may help you eliminate the need for extra warehousing because you can maximize your existing space with it. Additionally, pallet flow systems minimize need for movement since correctly-dated stocks keep flowing to your loading point. These systems can be complemented with barcode technology to increase their efficiency.


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