5 Clear Signs It’s Time to Upgrade Your Warehouse Racking System

Warehouse management isn’t as easy as it seems, especially during peak season. Aside from monitoring inventory levels, maintaining smooth flow, optimising layout, warehouse managers must also check the racking system.

The AS4084 Australian Standards has specific requirements to ensure safety. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to warehouse storage, there are Australian Standards that must be followed. Here are some signs you should consider upgrading your racking system.

1. Frequent Repairs

Warehouse racking that is not constantly exposed to vibration, sunlight, and other elements should last for years – with proper maintenance.

With pallet racking, wear and tear are inevitable. But if you are frequently fixing shelves and beams, there is probably a deeper problem that could be occurring. This could be a design issue, with aisles that are not wide enough for the forklift drivers to operate between, the absence of racking protection on end frames and uprights to reduce damage to the pallet racking itself or pallet racking that is non-compliant with the AS4084 Australian Standards.

2. Accidents

Even though a warehouse may look clean and tidy, this doesn’t mean it is also safe. Issues can arise which can cause accidents if you do not address them immediately.

If pallet racking is damaged, the damaged bays and beams should be unloaded immediately, and repairing the damaged parts should be arranged as soon as possible.

“Keeping a record of routine warehouse inspection can help you determine what needs to be repaired or replaced soon.”, advises Credit Capital operations manager Alister Clare.

3. Difficulty Keeping Track of Your Stock

Effective inventory management is key to smooth warehouse operations. If you are constantly struggling to find stock or failing to replenish supplies on time, you may need to upgrade the racking system and stock management software. Racking systems must be flexible enough for your layout if you need to re-arrange the warehouse in the future.

One Stop Pallet Racking offers a range of options that can be customised according to your business requirements. Our systems comply with the ISO 9001:2008 International Standards, the SEMA, FEM, and AS4084-2012 Australian Standards. They are also following the design standards of The Australian Steel Institute Code of Practice.

4. Declining Productivity Rate

Has there been a drop in the productivity rate of your warehouse?

Warehouse productivity also depends on clear paths and organised stock. Easy access speed up the operations, not only in the warehouse but across your business. Depending on your needs, you can choose from any of the following:

• Selective Pallet Racking
• Double Deep Racking
• Drive-In Racking
• Cantilever Racking
• Push Back Racking
• Shuttle Rack

5. Running Out of Space

Your current racking system may not be maximising every square foot of the warehouse. The vertical space within a warehouse is just as valuable as the floor.

Mezzanine floors and Pallet Racking Floors are popular solutions for growing inventory. They increase storage capacity by using vertical space. You can add shelves above and below, enhancing your storage capacity. Another advantage of this system is that you can also relocate it, should you move to a larger facility.

At One Stop Pallet Racking, we are passionate about quality and efficiency. We understand how crucial racking systems are to warehouse operations, and we offer customisable options for all business sizes. Our services also include warehouse storage design and safety inspections. Contact us for a superior warehouse upgrade.