Selective pallet racking is the most common pallet racking system. It is a storage solution for many warehouses and distribution centers. What makes it “selective” is that the user has direct access to every single pallet.
Selective racking is made up of uprights and beams, and pallets sit on crossbars. Wire decks can be used to help catch loose items from pallets or create locations to place cartons.
Advantages of Selective Racking
As stated above, an advantage for selective racking is that the operator has access to every single pallet. Unlike other pallet racking options, an operator does not have to remove pallets to gain access to a pallet, as selective racking is a first-in, first-out (FIFO) inventory system.
Selective racking is generally considered a less expensive option compared to other systems such as carton flow and push back racking.
Selective racking can be integrated with other forms of racking and material handling solutions to accomplish your goals within a DC. It is adaptable to any product size and weight and can be easily reconfigured for new product requirements.
Disadvantages of Selective Racking
A common disadvantage of selective racking is that it is considered a low-density storage and requires aisle spacing to ensure selectability. Aisle spacing is determined by the forklift in use at any given facility. Sit-down forklifts will typically require a 12ft aisle in between selective rows, while stand-ups require less.
source: Cisco-Eagle
Selective rows can be installed back-to-back to ensure that the maximum space is being utilized in a warehouse.
Types of Selective Racking
Selective rack is available in both roll-form and structural steel.
Structural steel racking can support more pounds-per-square-inch than roll form. It is also very resilient and can withstand impact from lift equipment. The higher cost of structural steel might make it worth it if you are consistently needing to replace damaged uprights due to collisions by your forklift operators. Structural rack may also be a better option for food grade-product and cold storage applications.
Roll-form rack is made of a lighter gauge steel and is less expensive than structural. This type of rack is also easier to reconfigure and relocate within a facility.
Manufacturers for Selective Racking
Interlake Mecalux is ABCO’s primary partner manufacturer for selective racking. Their frames come in either bolted or welded variants, and they use high-strength steel to ensure your specifications can be met.
Contact ABCO Systems today to discuss a selective racking solution that works for your distribution center.