One of the latest innovations in bulk storage solutions are pallet flow racks. These systems offer a number of advantages over conventional racks, and are being installed in an ever increasing number of warehouses thanks to the increased efficiency and space saving factors that they offer to owners.

While a conventional pallet rack system requires strict stock control to ensure that the oldest stock is used ahead of newer acquisitions, this whole system is built into the construction of a pallet flow rack, and you will automatically use the oldest items first.

The actual structure of a pallet flow rack system is a fairly radical departure from conventional static shelving, and while it requires a higher cost of installation and purchase over other options, it provides a number of benefits in terms of the space saving and better stock control that it offers as standard.

Essentially, in a pallet flow rack system, pallets are loaded and unloaded the end of the racks rather than along the side. Instead of standard mesh shelving, a system of braked rollers along a gentle incline is used. Once pallets are loaded on one end of the rack, they begin sliding along to the other end where they fill up the storage area. The oldest items are always next in line to be unloaded, and this ensures that stock is not wasted.

A system of air hoses can raise the shelving racks up at one end to allow it to roll along the shelf until it gets into the desired location for storage. Once the item is in place, the beams are lowered to a rest position so that the pallet remains in place. The wheels that the loads roll along are contained within the beam, and require minimal maintenance, keeping running costs for the pallet flow rack system as low as possible.

Pallet flow racks are intended for use in a storage system where very few different materials are needed. Limited access at the ends of the racks means that each level can only be used for a single material ? although a number of pallets can be stored on each. If you use lots of one item then this should be stored on a flow system, while other less popular items can be kept in conventional storage.

A pallet flow rack will take up a lot less space than a conventional system as access is only required at either end of the unit. Indeed, you can either place the flow racks in between conventional racks, or alternatively simply fill up the entire central area of your warehouse with these racks if that suits your business model.

The use of pallet flow racks creates a number of benefits for staff, as they will be able to operate in a much safer system than a conventional warehouse allows. With each area specially used for a single purpose ? either loading or unloading, it is fairly straightforward for everyone to know where they are, and what is happening around them, reducing the risk of accidents.