Rising wages, rental and energy costs are creating a need for higher-density storage systems in distribution centres. Manufacturers, distributors and retailers want to get the most out of their available floor space. A continuing rise in demand for consumer goods, particularly pharmaceuticals, food & beverages, and textiles has pushed up costs and highlighted a need for more efficient storage systems.
How does high-density storage work?
High-density storage means storing the largest quantity of products in the smallest space minimising storage costs. It requires using the right type of storage and racking systems, optimising vertical space, and reducing aisle space. Many options for storage media depend on the type of stock to be handled and the required throughput and access required. The ideal solution is a combination of racking system types.
The advantages of high-density warehouse storage
•more efficient inventory management and accessibility.
•better productivity – faster picking and packing.
•lower operational costs – staff and utilities.
•enclosed storage media reduces damages and lost items.
•improved safety and security.
•increased customer satisfaction.
The different types of racking solutions
A warehouse racking system is a storage solution designed to stack materials in rows with multiple levels. The design of racking will vary depending on the type of goods it is intended to store. Some racking solutions are better suited to perishable goods such as food or medicine, whereas others are better suited to longer-term storage of bulky items like building materials.
The most common types of racking systems are:
•Selective Racking. Inexpensive with a wide selection of sizes. Double-deep options increase storage density allowing two pallets to be stored back-to-back.
•Pallet Flow racking. High-density storage that uses a combination of elevated rails and dynamic components such as gravity rollers, conveyors, etc. Using this system can double or triple your storage capacity.
•Case or carton-flow racking. Consists of shelves equipped with rollers or wheels that allow cases or cartons of products to flow forward as they are picked.
•Drive-in racks. Offer maximum density storage of products by allowing products to be stored in multiple positions deep, cutting down aisle space.
•Push-back racking. This high-density storage option is like drive-in racking but can store pallets up to five deep. The system is commonly used in food and cold storage applications.
•Narrow Aisle Racking. Emulates the characteristics of selective racking offering, better access to every pallet. The warehouse storage racks set up high-density storage by making better use of the floor area and roof height.
Trends in high-density warehousing
1. Using vertical space
Vertical solutions address the increased demand for efficient space. Businesses are optimising their warehouse storage by using taller racks, mezzanines, and automated vertical lifts. Multilevel warehousing, utilising mezzanine floors is another solution
2. Automation and Robotics
Automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS) improve efficiency, accuracy, and speed in managing inventory. Autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) and robotic arms are extensively used for picking, packing, and sorting.
3. Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
A WMS provides data-driven decision-making and technological support for modern warehouses. Cloud-based WMS solutions offer scalability, flexibility, and real-time visibility across multiple locations. 4. Flexibility and Scalability
The expansion of e-commerce and changing customer demands in the B2B environment means warehouses need to be flexible and scalable. Modular storage systems and adjustable racking solutions allow for easy reconfiguration and expansion as needed.
5. Sustainability
Businesses are continuing to adopt eco-friendly practices to reduce energy consumption, minimise waste, and lower carbon emissions.
Advances in software solutions provide the opportunity to enhance overall productivity, help minimise human error and reduce labour costs.
Implementing high-density storage solutions is an excellent way to maximise limited warehouse space. Selecting the right warehouse storage solution can be a confusing and exhausting task due to the wide variety of systems available in the market.
Our team of experienced warehouse consultants can recommend the best solutions for your needs in terms of warehouse space optimisation. Book a consultation with our expert consultants at +44(0)1926 430 883 or email your enquiry at info@sccgltd.com.
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