Maximising floor space is a priority for many businesses, especially when running a warehouse or storage facility. Whether you’re a retailer, manufacturer, or distributor, optimising your storage setup can reduce costs, improve productivity, and unlock more usable space. Pallet racking is one of the most effective ways to achieve this.
At Erect-A-Rack, we specialise in innovative storage solutions that not only streamline operations but also maximise your warehouse’s potential. Here’s how pallet racking can help save floor space and the percentages of space you could reclaim.
How Pallet Racking Saves Space
Pallet racking systems are designed to make the most of your warehouse’s vertical height, effectively multiplying the storage capacity of your available floor area. By stacking pallets in organised racks rather than spreading them across the floor, you can significantly improve storage density while maintaining accessibility.
The benefits go beyond just space-saving. These systems reduce clutter, improve stock management, and enhance safety within your facility.
Comparing Floor Space Utilisation with Different Pallet Racking Systems
The amount of floor space you save depends on the type of pallet racking system you choose. Here’s a breakdown of space utilisation percentages for some popular systems:
Selective Pallet Racking
- Floor Space Usage: 40-50%
- Best For: Warehouses requiring easy access to individual pallets.
- Key Benefit: Flexibility and accessibility, but slightly lower space efficiency compared to other systems
Double Deep Pallet Racking
- Floor Space Usage: 35-45%
- Best For: Businesses storing high volumes of the same product.
- Key Benefit: Doubles the storage depth while maintaining a compact footprint
Very Narrow Aisle (VNA) Racking
- Floor Space Usage: 25-30%
- Best For: Facilities with specialised material handling equipment (MHE) like turret trucks.
- Key Benefit: Reduces aisle widths significantly, freeing up space for storage
Push Back Racking
- Floor Space Usage: 30-35%
- Best For: High-density storage for products with lower turnover rates.
- Key Benefit: Offers deep storage with fewer aisles, ideal for FIFO or LIFO operations
Drive-In Racking
- Floor Space Usage: 20-25%
- Best For: High-density storage of bulk goods.
- Key Benefit: Eliminates the need for individual pallet access, maximising storage density
Shuttle Racking
- Floor Space Usage: 15-20%
- Best For: Facilities prioritising automated solutions.
- Key Benefit: Uses technology to optimise space and enhance efficiency
ASRS (Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems)
- Floor Space Usage: 10-15%
- Best For: High-tech operations focusing on automation and precision.
- Key Benefit: Maximises space by stacking up to 10 pallets high or more.
Calculating Your Potential Space Savings
Imagine your warehouse has 2,000m² of floor space:
- With Selective Pallet Racking, you can utilise approximately 1,000m² for storage.
- Switching to Drive-In Racking could reclaim up to 1,600m² of usable space.
- Implementing an ASRS system could save even more, utilising over 1,800m².
The choice of racking system will depend on your storage needs, stock rotation requirements, and available budget.
Factors to Consider for Maximum Space Optimisation
- Vertical Height – Utilise the full height of your warehouse by investing in a racking system suited for taller setups.
- Aisle Widths – Narrow aisles can significantly increase storage density but may require specialised equipment.
- Inventory Management – Choose a system that aligns with your stock turnover, whether it’s FIFO or LIFO.
- Future Growth – Plan for scalability to ensure your storage system grows with your business.
Why Choose Erect-A-Rack for Your Space Saving Needs?
At Erect-A-Rack, we tailor our storage solutions to meet the specific requirements of your business. Whether you need a basic selective pallet racking setup or an advanced ASRS system, our expert team can help you design, supply, and install the perfect racking solution.
With decades of experience in the industry, we understand the importance of reliability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Let us help you transform your warehouse into a space-efficient, productivity-boosting operation.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you save on floor space with pallet racking. Explore our range of racking solutions and take the first step towards maximising your warehouse’s potential.
