What is Pallet Flow Racking?
Pallet flow, commonly known as “gravity flow” racking, is a popular FIFO (first in, first out) pallet rack system. Pallets are placed on wheel tracks or rollers on an inclined rack in a pallet flow through racking system. A pallet is loaded onto the system from one end and moves at a controlled pace until it reaches the other end. When the front pallet is unloaded from the flow rack system, the next pallet moves forward. This happens in a single pallet flow “lane” or wheeled track.
Pallet flow racking systems are well-suited for applications with high inventory turnover and time-sensitive products. The depth of pallet positions varies by pallet flow system, but most hold between two and twenty pallets per lane.
Pallet Flow Advantages
What makes pallet flow such a popular storage system? One significant advantage is that it helps utilize warehouse floor space more efficiently. By storing pallets back-to-back, pallet flow effectively minimizes the need for additional aisles. Also, pallet flow offers a smooth FIFO inventory rotation. Pallets can be loaded into the back of the system and unloaded from the front simultaneously, meaning inventory is constantly moving and accessible.
Quoting Pallet Flow/Gravity Flow Racking: What You Need to Know
Pallet flow racking systems should meet the needs and specifications of the end user. If quoting the system, this often comes down to asking the right questions. Asking questions is how we understand the application, the end user’s goals, and any other relevant information we’ll need when drafting a quote.
Below we’ve listed some of the standard questions we ask when we quote pallet flow systems. This list is not exhaustive but is meant as an essential list upon which to start and build.
“What will the layout of the system look like? How many pallets are deep by, how many are wide by, how many are high?”
“What will the minimum and maximum pallet weights be? What will the standard pallet dimensions be (depth x width x height), and what will they be after adding any overhanging product?” The pallet height should always include the load and the pallet.
“What type of pallets is the customer using, and are they in good condition?” We ask this because there are many different pallet styles. The preferred pallet for a pallet flow rack system is the standard 48″ deep x 40″ wide GMA (Grocery Manufacturers Association) pallet.
“What is the building’s clear height?”
“What type of warehouse environment will this be used in? Freezer, cooler or ambient temperature? Will it be outdoors or in a wet area?” This will tell us if we need to quote galvanized or standard painted material.
Need Help Quoting a Pallet Flow System?
Our Goal is to Help You! If you’re interested in quoting a pallet rack system for your customers, call 888-578-1579 today or get a quote. Thanks!
