In the dynamic world of warehousing and distribution, efficiency is vital. One of the most efficient methods to increase productivity and streamline operations is through the use of gravity-fed racks. These systems, which include both pallet and carton gravity flow racks, can increase storage density, hasten pick speed and lower labor costs.

Gravity Flow Racks Explained

Gravity-fed racks are storage setups designed to use gravity to transport items from the back of the rack to the front. This configuration makes sure that the first case or pallet added to the rear of the rack is the first one to be picked from the face, adhering to the First-In-First-Out (FIFO) stock management method. This method is particularly advantageous for items with expiration dates, such as perishables, medicines, and other spoilage-prone items.

Case Flow Racks

Carton flow racks, also known as just flow racks, are well-suited for picking and storing individual goods that are typically kept in boxes or totes. These racks include slightly inclined shelves configured with rollers or skate wheels. When a box is placed on the top side of the shelf, gravity slides it down to the bottom end, where it is easily accessible for picking.

Advantages of Carton Flow Racks

Improved Picking Efficiency: By keeping goods well-organized and easily accessible, carton flow racks considerably reduce the time workers spend searching for items. This results in accelerated order completion and enhanced productivity.

Space Optimization: Flow racks optimize vertical space, allowing warehouses to store more inventory in a reduced area. This is especially useful in facilities with limited floor space.

Improved Inventory Management: The FIFO system makes sure that the earliest inventory is selected first, minimizing the possibility of spoiled or obsolete products. This is essential for preserving product quality and minimizing product loss.

Decreased Labor Costs: With products automatically sliding to the face of the line, pickers consume less time traveling and more time picking, translating to lower labor expenses and greater efficiency.

Pallet Flow Racks

Pallet gravity flow racks are set up for bulkier, heavier products grouped on pallets. These systems work using the same concept as case flow racks but are constructed to handle the heaviness and size of pallets. Pallet flow racks include sloping roller beds that enable pallets to move from the loading side to the pick face.

Pallet Flow Rack Benefits

Increased Storage Density: Pallet gravity flow racks enable high-density storage by optimizing vertical space and deep lane storage. This is particularly advantageous for operations with high inventory turnover.

Improved Inventory Rotation: The FIFO system ensures that earlier stock is selected first, which is essential for goods with expiration dates or those that require strict inventory control.

Enhanced Safety: By cutting down on the need for forklifts to maneuver through the warehouse to retrieve pallets, pallet flow racks lower the risk of collisions and damage to products.

Reduced Labor Costs: Similar to carton flow racks, pallet flow racks minimize the labor required for picking, translating to more favorable labor costs and better operational productivity.

Speak To A Warehouse Storage Professional

Gravity-fed racks offer a variety of advantages for storage facilities and distribution centers. As the demand for faster and more streamlined order fulfillment keeps increasing, gravity-assisted racks present an optimal solution for businesses looking to stay competitive in the constantly changing logistics landscape. To get more information on flow racks, consult with a warehouse specialist at Raymond West now.

Raymond West's Orange County service area includes Anaheim, Costa Mesa, Fullerton, Garden Grove, Orange, Santa Ana, Tustin and all surrounding areas.

Raymond West | Orange County Material Handling Equipment Supplier

Orange County, CA
(714) 790-9300