Rack Storage System

A rack storage system is an integrated shelving solution for storing goods and materials in an organized, space-efficient manner. It typically refers to a setup of industrial racks (such as pallet racks, shelving, or mezzanine-supported racks) arranged to maximize storage density. Components are engineered to handle palletized or heavy items while allowing forklift or manual access. Such systems are custom-designed for a facility’s layout and flow requirements.

Type of Rack Storage System

Rack storage systems are often composed of different racking technologies:

Selective Pallet Racking: Basic racks with frames and beams for direct pallet access.

Drive-In/Drive-Through Racks: High-density racks where forklifts enter lanes to store pallets on rails.

Push-Back/Flow Racks: Systems where pallets are stored on inclined rails; either gravity flows (in FIFO pallet flow racks) or push back on nested carts (LIFO).

Long-Span Shelving: Racks for large, bulky items on wide shelves (common in bulk storage or asset storage).

Drive-In Storage Frame Systems: Complete ‘rack-in rack’ where entire racks are on mobile bases (on rails) to save aisle space.

Applications in Various Industries

Rack storage systems are used wherever large quantities of inventory must be stored efficiently:

Warehouses and Distribution Centers: Pallets of goods (retail, wholesale products) are stored on multi-level racks for inventory management.

Manufacturing: Raw materials and finished parts (on pallets or containers) are stored near production lines.

Retail Back stores: Bulk merchandise (apparel, appliances) in storerooms using industrial shelving.

Libraries and Archives: High-density shelving for books or documents (heavy-duty racks, sometimes mobile).

Automotive and Aerospace Supply: Long-term storage of parts or raw materials.

Material Selection Considerations

Similar to industrial racks:

• Steel Profiles: The main uprights and beams are made of thick-gauge steel (often roll-formed or welded sections). Racks carry thousands of pounds, so high-strength steel is essential.
• Protective Coating: Powder coat or galvanization to prevent corrosion, especially in humid or cold-storage environments.
• Decking: For shelving levels, materials can include steel decking (sheet or wire mesh) or engineered wood panels (for lighter loads). The choice depends on load requirements and cost.
• Fasteners and Accessories: Heavy-duty bolts, connector pins, and clips are usually steel; safety clips or locks (metal springs).