PALLET FLOW RACKING
- Very high storage density
- First in/first out concept only
- The pallet flow replaces forklift handling
- Low quantity of SKUs
- High volume of SKUs
- Moving the material quickly from one production area to another
- Freezer or refrigerated warehouse
Pallet flow racking is a high-density storage solution designed for FIFO (first in, first out) operations. Gravity moves the pallets through the rack, which reduces forklift travel and the number of aisles needed in your warehouse.
A pallet flow racking consists of a series of rows of racking grouped together and positioned to create a slope. The loading of the pallet flow racking is done at the high level of the slope and the pick face is at the bottom of the slope. The pallets slide down by gravity in conjunction with a rail or roll track or full-width roller system.
What are the advantages of the “Pallet Flow” pallet racking system?
Pallet flow racking offers three main benefits: higher storage density, safer handling and faster product movement. These benefits depend on a well-designed rack. In Canada, the CSA A344 standard (User guide for steel storage racks) provides guidance on the safe use of steel storage racks.
Very high storage density
The concept of the pallet flow racking uses the movement by gravity of the pallets to replace the handling by forklift and the circulation aisles. As is the case with the push back racking, the combination of these two factors is the source of the very high storage density.
Increased safety
Compared to a single deep racking, there are far fewer circulation aisles and therefore less forklift movement in a pallet flow racking. The movement of the pallets is ensured by gravity inside the racking system. For safety reasons, a brake system controlling the descent speed of the pallets is installed.
Increased productivity
In addition to the rapid movement of the pallets by gravity, the pallet flow racking allows rapid movement of products between two sectors of the warehouse, for example the production area and the assembly line, without having to plan circulation aisles.
Optimize your FIFO storage
Get a quote for a Pallet Flow racking system designed to improve inventory turnover and maximize your storage capacity.
How do you know if a pallet flow system is right for your business?
There are several factors to consider before starting a project:
- Do your operations and products require “first in/first out”?
- What is the quality and consistency of your pallets? This will determine the appropriate conveyor system.
- Do the volume and the quantity of SKUs in your warehouse match the pallet flow racking features?
The depth of each lane also depends on the load, pallet quality and braking system, so it is defined for each project.
The best way to start is to carry out a complete audit of your products, your operations and your space. Your project and quote are handled by an industrial engineer, who analyzes your needs before any recommendation. This will allow the racking system to be properly configured from the start, which will avoid unpleasant surprises in the future. If your operations do not require FIFO, other pallet racking systems, such as drive-in racking, may be a better fit. Contact our team and tell us about your project to start the process.
FAQ
What is the difference between pallet flow and carton flow?
Pallet flow moves full pallet loads on gravity flow lanes. Carton flow moves individual cases on lighter wheels or rollers, at the picking position.
How many pallets deep can a lane be?
Lane depth depends on the load, the pallet quality and the braking system. Our industrial engineers define it for each project after analyzing your products and operations.
How does pallet flow racking support inventory management?
Pallet flow racking works on a first in, first out basis: the first pallet loaded is the first one picked. This supports stock rotation, especially for products with expiry dates. For rack design references, see the Rack Manufacturers Institute.
Is pallet flow racking available in Montreal and across Canada?
Yes. Based in Brossard, MSK Canada handles pallet flow racking projects in Montreal and elsewhere in Canada, mainly in Quebec and Ontario, from the initial study to installation and maintenance.