The decision to implement pallet rack systems in your warehouse or distribution center can improve your operation and reduce costs, but it’s not an easy one! There are many variables to consider when planning a new pallet rack installation – and many details to cover before, during, and after the installation process. Assuming you don’t have the help of pallet rack installers, here are factors that you need to keep in mind as you plan your new pallet rack installation so that it will be as efficient and cost-effective as possible.

How Much Space Do You Have?

The first thing professional pallet rack installers consider is how much empty floor space do you have in your warehouse or shipping area?

Pallets and other storage equipment will take up some of that space, so be sure to factor that into your design. For example, an entire full-depth rack takes up about 30 feet (roughly two 18′ standard doors) of wall-to-wall floor space.

Make sure you have adequate space for all of your equipment – and also make sure it’s not too cramped for forklifts, which can cause damage over time if they need to maneuver too frequently around obstacles.

What Kind of Products Do You Store

It’s no secret that there are hundreds, if not thousands, of different types of products you can store with your pallet racking system. That’s why it’s crucial that you first decide what types of products you want to store.

For example, do you plan on storing heavy-duty items like steel and rock or lightweight items like clothing and food? Your decision should take into account how many items need to be stored at any given time as well as how much room is available for storage.

If you choose rack systems based on what kind of products you’re storing rather than space constraints, it won’t matter if your manufacturing company suddenly has an increase in orders because you can quickly make room for more products by simply adding another tier or two onto your storage system.

Determine the Number of Pallets You Will Store

Before starting any project, it is essential to determine just how many pallets will be stored. This can depend on a variety of factors, including desired capacity and customer requirements.

The more information you have at hand about your storage needs and goals for your business, the easier it will be to make an accurate estimation of how many racks you will require and what height would work best for your application.

Select an Appropriate Design

You’ve found just what you need and it will be here in three weeks. That’s great news, except that once your new pallet racking arrives you’ll have only one or two days before it needs to go up and running. So how can you ensure that everything is ready when your racks arrive?

By selecting an appropriate design, of course! You want your racks set up as quickly as possible but also with just enough time for some final adjustments so they fit perfectly in their designated area.

Consider Construction Requirements

Many people look at racks and see only their intended use, but it’s just as important to ask yourself how much weight you’re expecting these racks to support. General safety principles should be followed to prevent OSHA violations.

Factors like labor costs, materials, and distance from existing structures will also factor into construction. The last thing you want is an improperly constructed pallet racking system.

Choose an Appropriate Location

Once you’ve identified your need for additional storage, it’s time to choose where to put your new pallet racking. There’s more that goes into picking a location than just, it will fit in here.

The best location for installing your racks is going to depend on everything from whether there is ample power supply nearby, accessibility, room for forklifts, and even ceiling heights.

Calculate Your Costs

The size and dimensions of your facility will play an important role in determining costs. Pallet racks come in all different sizes, shapes, and heights so if you’re looking for custom racks or want to convert existing shelving into a storage system, there’s no doubt it will cost more.

You’ll also have additional costs for shipping (unless you go with local suppliers) so make sure your budget accounts for those as well.

Make sure to also account for labor costs, even if you work alone, because you may need help when getting everything set up.

Pallet Rack World is Your Provider and Pallet Rack Installers

Before you can purchase and install your new storage solution, you’ll need to decide which brand of pallet rack is right for your needs. At Pallet Rack World, we can be your pallet rack installers and we also offer pallet dismantling services. Contact us today to find out how we can help you install cost-effective and durable pallet racking systems!