A Beginner’s Guide of Warehouse Storage Solutions

Key Takeaway:

Implementing the right industrial storage solutions is crucial for optimizing supply chain efficiency and maximizing space utilization in warehouses.

Proper warehouse management is vital for any supply chain operation. One of the biggest challenges is finding the best ways to store and retrieve goods economically. This article provides an overview of industrial storage solutions designed to enhance efficiency and save space in warehouses.

The Importance of Warehouse Storage Solutions

Right Warehouse Storage Solutions are essential for improving warehouse operations. They directly impact order picking productivity, which accounts for a significant portion of operating costs. Properly designed storage systems create efficient travel patterns within the warehouse, reducing congestion and improving access to stored goods.

Herein we shall explore the available warehouse storage solutions for you to justify a more pertinent solution.

Pallet Racking Systems

Pallet racking systems are the backbone of most warehouse storage solutions, especially for unit load handling. They come in various configurations:

• Selective Pallet Racking: Provides easy access to every pallet but requires wide aisles.
• Very Narrow Aisle (VNA) Racking: Increases storage density but needs special forklifts.
• Pushback Racking: Allows high-density storage with a Last In First Out (LIFO) system.
• Drive-In Racking: Maximizes density by letting forklifts drive into the racks.
• Pallet Flow Racking: Uses gravity to move pallets to the front, supporting a First In First Out (FIFO) system.

Each type of pallet racking has its advantages and considerations, depending on the facility's needs and materials handled.

Open Industrial Shelving

For non-palletized storage, open industrial shelving is a versatile solution. Welded steel racks with fixed shelf heights offer stability and durability. Custom shelving systems can be designed to match specific materials or products, optimizing space utilization within the facility. Ensuring workplace safety is crucial, so units with large bases and pre-drilled anchor holes for bolting are recommended.

Specialized Material Racks

Not all materials fit standard shelving configurations. Specialized material racks provide tailored solutions for various industrial materials:

• Cantilever Carts and Vertical Material Racks: Ideal for storing pipes, bars, and similar items.
• Sheet Material Racks: Designed for granite slabs, glass windows, and similar materials.
• Clear View Storage Lockers and Security Cages: Secure storage for high-value items.

These racks improve space utilization and accessibility, essential for efficient order picking and overall warehouse productivity.

Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS)

Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS) use shuttles, carousels, and computerized guidance for automated stock picking and storage. ASRS achieves high-density storage by eliminating the need for aisles. While the high cost and complex installation may limit their use to high-throughput operations, ASRS offers significant benefits, including increased efficiency and automation. The global market for ASRS continues to grow, reflecting its importance in modern warehousing.

• Pallet-Based ASRS: Ideal for handling heavy loads and large items.
• Mini-Load ASRS: Suitable for smaller items and high-density storage.
• Shuttle Systems: Offer high throughput and flexibility for various load sizes.

ASRS systems enhance space utilization, improve operational efficiency, and reduce labor costs. They can be integrated into existing warehouses or designed into new facilities from the outset.

Pick Modules

Pick modules combine traditional racking systems, conveyor belts, and multi-story structures to optimize the flow of goods. They enhance picking efficiency and utilize vertical space effectively.

• Integration: Pick modules integrate various storage and conveyor components.
• Efficiency: They improve the retrieval of multiple SKUs and consolidate them into a single location.

Pick modules are ideal for facilities with diverse SKUs required for pallet assembly, providing a dynamic and efficient storage solution.

Carousels

Carousels are "goods-to-person" storage solutions designed for smaller and lighter products. They come in horizontal and vertical configurations, optimizing space and enhancing operational efficiency.

• Horizontal Carousels: Suitable for facilities with limited vertical space.
• Vertical Carousels: Maximize vertical space and are ideal for high-density storage.

Carousels offer compact storage and high picking rates, making them valuable for storing a wide range of SKUs or parts.

Vertical Lift Modules (VLMs)

Vertical Lift Modules (VLMs) are a type of ASRS that use a high-density, compact unit with an extraction device positioned between two rows of stored goods. VLMs maximize vertical storage space and automate the retrieval process.

• Operation: VLMs retrieve items with a simple push of a button.
• Benefits: They reduce labor costs and optimize warehouse storage capacity.

VLMs are suitable for facilities handling a wide range of SKUs and requiring efficient picking for individual orders.

Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs)

Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) represent advanced technology for goods storage and retrieval. They navigate autonomously, picking and storing products without extensive facility redesigns.

• Functionality: AMRs use cameras and warehouse management software to locate and retrieve goods.
• Benefits: They offer flexibility and compatibility with existing systems.

AMRs are ideal for facilities seeking to automate labor processes and improve operational efficiency without significant overhauls.

FAQ

1.  What are the benefits of using pallet racking systems?

 Pallet racking systems offer organized and efficient storage, easy access to goods, and increased storage density. They also improve order picking productivity and optimize space utilization.

2.   How does open industrial shelving enhance warehouse operations?

Open industrial shelving provides versatile and durable storage for non-palletized items. Customizable shelving systems ensure optimal use of space and improve access to stored materials.

3.   What types of specialized material racks are available?

Specialized material racks include Cantilever Carts, Vertical Material Racks, Sheet Material Racks, and Security Cages. These racks cater to specific storage needs and enhance space utilization and accessibility.

4.   What is an Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS)?

ASRS is an automated system that uses shuttles, carousels, and computerized guidance for efficient stock picking and storage. It increases storage density and streamlines warehouse operations.

5.   How can efficient storage solutions improve order picking productivity?

Efficient storage solutions create organized and accessible storage layouts, reducing travel time and congestion. This leads to faster and more accurate order picking, improving overall productivity.