Pallet Flow Racking

GO WITH THE FLOW FOR OPTIMAL INVENTORY MANAGEMENT.

Need a fast and efficient FIFO (first in, first out) inventory management solution? Pallet flow racking (or gravity flow racking) may be for you. This gravity-assisted racking system is highly popular in distribution centers, manufacturing facilities, food and beverage, and other industries where high-density storage and efficient inventory retrieval are essential.

FIFO RETRIEVAL

Pallets stored first are also the first to be retrieved, for optimal product freshness and minimal inventory spoilage.

PRODUCTIVITY

Pallet flow racking allows for efficient pallet loading and unloading, for higher productivity and reduced labor costs.

VERSATILE

Pallet flow racking can be customized to fit a wide range of storage needs, pallet times and inventory systems.

STORAGE CAPACITY

Pallet flow racking allows for high-density storage by storing multiple pallets deep within the system.

About Pallet Flow Racking

Pallet flow racking is a type of high-density storage system that utilizes gravity to move pallets through the system. Pallet flow racking is designed to store large quantities of pallets in a small space while providing efficient and selective inventory retrieval. The system consists of inclined rails or rollers that allow pallets to flow from the entry end of the system to the exit end using gravity.

Pallet Rack Accessories

Safety Backstop Material

Protect people and prevent product loss and damage with safety backstops that keep pallets and other items from accidentally falling off the back of the racking system.

Other Accessories

We offer a variety of other pallet rack accessories to improve safety and help you customize your racking installation, including spacers, post protectors, column protectors, spring clips and more.

Pallet Racking Overview

Learn More

Teardrop Pallet Racking

Learn More

Cantilever Racking

Learn More

Drive-In Racking

Learn More

Carton Flow Racking

Learn More

Used Pallet Racking

Learn More

Pallet Flow Racking FAQs

How does pallet flow racking work?

Pallet flow racking, also known as gravity flow racking, is a storage system that uses gravity to move pallets through the system. Here’s how pallet flow racking works:

Pallet flow racking is typically installed on an incline, with the front of the system at a higher elevation than the back.
Pallets are loaded into the system from the high end and then move through the system on roller tracks or skate wheels.
As the pallets move through the system, they are held in place by brakes or other locking mechanisms.
The pallets are then retrieved from the low end of the system, where they can be easily accessed by forklifts or other material handling equipment.
Pallet flow racking typically operates on a first-in, first-out (FIFO) basis, which means that the first pallet to be loaded is also the first to be retrieved.
The system can be customized with different roller track configurations, brake types, and other features to optimize storage capacity and efficiency.

What is pallet flow racking used for?

Pallet flow racking is a versatile storage solution that can be used in a wide range of industries and applications where high-density storage and efficient inventory retrieval are essential. It is especially helpful in industries where first-in, first-out (FIFO) inventory management is used to ensure product freshness. Common applications include:

Food and beverage: Pallet flow racking is an ideal storage solution for the food and beverage industry because it allows for efficient inventory retrieval and minimizes the risk of spoilage.
Pharmaceutical: Pallet flow racking is also used in the pharmaceutical industry to store and manage large quantities of drugs and medical supplies.
Manufacturing: Pallet flow racking is used in manufacturing facilities to store and organize raw materials, finished products, and other materials.
Distribution and logistics: Pallet flow racking is commonly used in distribution centers and logistics facilities to manage large quantities of products and materials.
Retail: Pallet flow racking is also used in retail environments, such as warehouses and distribution centers, to store and organize products for distribution to stores.

What is FIFO inventory management, and why is it used?

FIFO (First-In, First-Out) inventory management is a method of inventory management in which the first products received or produced are the first to be sold or used. In other words, the oldest inventory is used or sold before the newer inventory. FIFO inventory management is used for several reasons.

Product freshness: For products with expiration dates, such as food and pharmaceuticals, it’s important to use or sell the oldest inventory first to ensure product freshness and prevent waste.
Cost of goods sold: Using the oldest inventory first can help businesses accurately calculate the cost of goods sold, which is essential for financial reporting and budgeting.
Inventory turnover: FIFO inventory management can help businesses maintain a healthy inventory turnover rate by ensuring that inventory doesn’t sit on the shelf for too long.
Tax reporting: FIFO inventory management can also simplify tax reporting, as it provides a clear and consistent method for calculating the value of inventory.

How does pallet flow racking help with inventory management?

Pallet flow racking helps with inventory management in several ways:

FIFO inventory management: Pallet flow racking is designed to operate on a first-in, first-out (FIFO) basis, which means that the oldest inventory is used or sold before newer inventory. This helps ensure that products are used or sold before they expire or become obsolete, minimizing waste and maximizing product freshness.
Efficient inventory retrieval: Pallet flow racking provides efficient inventory retrieval by allowing for easy access to the front of each storage lane, which eliminates the need for operators to move pallets manually. This saves time and reduces the risk of product damage.
High-density storage: Pallet flow racking allows for high-density storage by storing multiple pallets deep within the system. This maximizes storage capacity and minimizes the need for additional storage facilities, which can reduce storage costs and improve inventory management.

What kind of maintenance is required for pallet flow racking?

Pallet flow racking requires minimal maintenance, but regular inspections and upkeep are essential to ensure safe and efficient operation.

In particular, it is important to regularly lubricate the rollers to keep them moving smoothly. This helps prevent the pallets from sticking or jamming in the system, which can damage the pallets and the racking.
Regular cleaning is also important to prevent dirt and debris from building up on the rollers or brakes; dirt and debris can affect the system’s performance and increase the risk of accidents.
Finally, inspect the pallet flow racking system regularly to ensure that all components are in good condition and functioning properly. Check for any signs of damage, such as bent or broken rollers, damaged brakes, or loose bolts. Any damaged or weakened components should be repaired or replaced immediately to prevent the risk of collapse or failure.

How is pallet flow racking installed?

Pallet flow racking is usually installed by a professional installation team, which will ensure that the system is set up correctly, safely and in compliance with all applicable building codes. Pallet flow racking is installed by assembling the components, such as the uprights, beams, rollers, and brakes, according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The system can be customized to fit specific storage requirements, including the number of lanes, depth, and width of each lane.