[Article]: Warehouse productivity thrives on the movement of products and personnel. The tighter the aisles, the slower the movement of the product. Setting up warehouse pallet racks requires excellence to increase warehouse productivity.

Success starts with the selection of the right racking system. But this doesn't matter if the system's installation fails. This article covers common mistakes to avoid when building a pallet racking system.

Right Size Your Racks

Don't get caught with the wrong size racking. The warehouse industry has many types of pallet racking systems. Some are well built and others will collapse when hit.

It is important to select the types of warehouse pallet racks that fit your product line. Also, make sure the forklift can reach the top levels of your racking. Overbuilding the system can create safety issues.

When designing a tall rack system, be sure your forklift will reach all the pallets.

Used Racking Risks

Avoid the risk of purchasing a used racking system. You don't want to buy a system that was overloaded, stored outside, or misused. There is nothing like finding out the seller painted over rust and corrosion to sell the racks.

A second risk is the system's configuration. Often a used system does not set up in the most efficient way for your processes. You'll gain more productivity from a pallet racking system designed for your processes.

Support Timely Repairs

Watching pallet racks collapse is eye-opening. Overloaded racks can damage the system and the stored products. To avoid confusion, mark all shelves for load capacity.

When a rack becomes damaged, file a report, assess the system, and repair the damages. Inspect the racks for inconsequential or structural damages. Repair structural damages without hesitation.

Racking Protection

Warehouse accidents will happen, so avoid building a system without protection. Forklifts can cause a lot of damage with a simple mistake, unless you invest in protecting your racks.

Here are some of the protection items to consider:

• Angle post protectors
• Rack bollards
• Frame end guards
• Corner post protectors
• Drive-in floor channel
• Narrow aisle guard rails

The most important protection is making sure you have bolted pallet racking.

Growth Planning

Most buyers of racking systems order what they need now instead of what they'll become. This mistake causes expansion problems in the future. By purchasing the best pallet racks, you can extend the life of your rack system.

Also, purchasing from a company with a good track record helps your future. They'll be around when it's time for your expansion. This type of company has designers that can plan your pallet racking system growth in phases.

Pallet Racking System

Avoid all the common mistakes of a pallet racking system by having your new racks designed for growth. Reduce your risks with new racking. And, protect your racking with bolts and protectors.

Also, make sure you handle all repairs in a quick fashion to protect your pallet rack system for the long haul. If you've enjoyed this article, check out our other blog posts on similar topics.

Image Attribution:

Pexels.com royalty-free image #4483608, uploaded by user Tiger Lily, retrieved from https://www.pexels.com/photo/shelves-on-a-warehouse-4483608/ on October 11th, 2021. License details available at https://www.pexels.com/photo-license/ - image is licensed under the Pexels License