Warehouse Storage Systems: The Pros and Cons of Pallet Racks, Mezzanines, and ASR

The technology associated with warehouse storage systems has improved dramatically in recent years. Now there are automated warehouse management systems (WMS) and robotic forklifts guided by laser lights. There are numerous types of storage options that are best designed to not only improve space utilization but also efficiency.

Pallet racks It is a technique that uses shelving so that goods can be stored on several levels above the floor, thus making better use of the available space. Rather than being limited to single pallet storage, racking systems allow stacking up to four or five levels, increasing space utilization many times over.

There are several adaptations of the shelving system. The total cost depends on the upgrades selected. Generally, the pallet racking system is in the middle of the road in terms of cost; It is not the most expensive nor the cheapest. This system is an excellent method of storing goods and with an included roller scheme, pallets can easily be moved in and out in any direction. There are also excellent shelving systems for storing heavy materials.

The pallet rack is clean, efficient and requires little maintenance. Because it is sturdy and reusable, it can be moved from one location to another. Used or reconditioned pallet racks can be purchased to reduce costs.

There are two disadvantages to the pallet racking system. Because all materials to be stored must be on pallets in order to move, a substantial inventory of pallets is required. The other disadvantage is that to fully utilize the system, forklifts must be able to reach pallets that are high above the ground.

The mezzanine storage system it is a less expensive method of making the most of available warehouse space. It is usually a structure that is built between the main floors to store additional supplies or equipment. It is less expensive than other systems and can be moved from one location to another.

The mezzanine storage system is best used in conditions where there is not an excessive amount of product in the warehouse. In a large-scale operation, this would not be the optimal method to employ. However, the cost is lower than other systems.

ASRS: automated storage and retrieval systems it is a fairly recent system introduced for warehouse storage. This is a complex system that uses computers to store and retrieve materials by storage location. Floor space is maximized because the lift truck operator does not restrict height.

The ASRS system is extremely adaptable and can be used to store large and small products. There are significant savings because the system is automated and requires less labor. Despite the lower labor requirement, this system is more expensive to install than the mezzanine system or the pallet system, and there are high maintenance costs associated with operating ASRS.

Space, labor, and product damage are expensive components of running a warehouse. Fortunately, there are many effective and inexpensive storage systems available that can be tailored to your specific needs.