In the fast-paced world of warehousing and distribution, efficiency is absolutely critical. One of the most effective ways to increase productivity and streamline operations is through the use of gravity-assisted racks. These systems, which include both pallet and carton gravity flow racks, can increase storage density, improve pick speed and lower labor costs.
What Are Gravity Flow Racks?
Gravity-fed racks are storage solutions designed to use gravity to transport items from the back of the rack to the face. This configuration guarantees that the first case or pallet loaded on the back of the rack is the first one to be picked from the face, adhering to the First-In-First-Out (FIFO) inventory system. This strategy is exceptionally useful for goods that expire, such as perishable goods, pharmaceuticals, and other date-sensitive products.
Case Flow Racks
Carton flow racks, also known as just flow racks, are perfect for picking and storing individual goods that are typically stocked in cases or totes. These racks are made up of slightly declined shelves configured with rollers or skate wheels. When a box is placed on the higher end of the shelf, gravity slides it down to the bottom side, where it is readily accessible for picking.
Advantages of Carton Flow Racks
Better Picking Efficiency: By keeping items well-organized and easily accessible, case flow racks considerably cut down on the amount of time that employees spend looking for items. This translates to faster order fulfillment and greater productivity.
Maximized Space Usage: Case flow racks make the most of vertical space, enabling warehouses to pack more products in a reduced area. This is particularly beneficial in buildings with floor space constraints.
Better Inventory Control: A FIFO system guarantees that older stock is selected first, cutting down on the possibility of outdated or obsolete goods. This is crucial for preserving product condition and minimizing product loss.
Decreased Labor Costs: With products automatically moving to the face of the line, pickers consume less time walking and more time picking, leading to reduced labor costs and higher productivity.
Pallet Flow Racks
Pallet gravity flow racks are set up for larger, heavier items that are palletized. These racks operate using the same idea as carton flow racks but are built to withstand the weight and size of pallets. Pallet flow racks consist of declined roller shelves that enable pallets to slide from the loading side to the picking end.
Advantages of Pallet Flow Racks
Enhanced Storage Density: Pallet flow racks enable high-density storage by making use of vertical space and deep lane storage. This is particularly useful for operations with high turnover ratios.
Efficient Inventory Rotation: The FIFO system guarantees that the first added inventory is selected first, which is essential for goods with expiration dates or those that require rigid inventory control.
Improved Safety: By reducing the need for forklifts to navigate through the warehouse to retrieve pallets, pallet flow racks reduce the risk of accidents and product damage.
Reduced Labor Costs: Similar to carton flow racks, pallet gravity flow racks minimize the man hours necessary for picking, resulting in lower labor expense and better operational efficiency.
Speak To A Warehouse Storage Professional
Gravity-fed racks offer a wide range of advantages for storage facilities and distribution centers. As the market for quicker and more labor-saving order fulfillment continues to grow, gravity-fed racks present an ideal solution for operations that strive to remain competitive in the ever-evolving logistics landscape. To find out more about flow racks, consult with a warehouse specialist at Welch Equipment today.
