In the dynamic world of warehousing and distribution, efficiency is vital. One of the most effective ways to increase productivity and optimize operations is through the use of gravity-fed racks. These systems, which include both pallet and carton gravity flow racks, can enhance storage density, accelerate pick speed and reduce labor costs.

What Are Gravity Flow Racks?

Gravity-assisted racks are storage solutions designed to use gravity to move products from the back of the rack to the face. This configuration makes sure that the first case or pallet placed on the rear of the system is the first item to be picked from the face, complying with the First-In-First-Out (FIFO) stock management method. This approach is especially useful for items that expire, such as perishable goods, medicines, and other date-sensitive products.

Case Flow Racks

Case flow racks, also referred to as just flow racks, are perfect for picking and storing smaller goods that are usually stocked in cases or totes. These racks include slightly inclined shelves equipped with rolling mechanisms or skate wheels. When a carton is added to the top side of the shelf, gravity moves it down to the lower side, where it is easily accessible for picking.

Benefits of Carton Flow Racks

Better Picking Efficiency: By keeping goods organized and readily accessible, case flow racks significantly cut down on the time employees spend looking for items. This results in accelerated order completion and increased throughput.

Maximized Space Usage: Carton flow racks optimize vertical space, enabling storage facilities to store additional products in a reduced footprint. This is extremely advantageous in facilities with limited floor space.

Improved Inventory Management: A FIFO system ensures that older stock is picked first, minimizing the possibility of outdated or obsolete products. This is essential for preserving product condition and minimizing waste.

Reduced Labor Costs: With products naturally moving to the face of the rack, pickers spend less time moving and more time picking, translating to diminished labor expenses and greater efficiency.

Pallet Flow Racks

Pallet gravity flow racks are set up for bulkier, heavier products that are palletized. These systems function using the same idea as carton flow racks but are engineered to accommodate the weight and size of pallets. Pallet gravity flow racks include declined roller shelves that enable pallets to move from the loading end to the picking end.

Pallet Flow Rack Benefits

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

Improved Inventory Rotation: The FIFO system ensures that older inventory is selected first, which is vital for products with expiration dates or those that demand rigorous inventory control.

Better Safety: By reducing the need for lift trucks to navigate through the warehouse to pick up pallets, pallet flow racks reduce the possibility of accidents and damage to products.

Labor Savings: Similar to case flow racks, pallet gravity flow racks minimize the time and effort required for picking, leading to diminished labor expense and increased overall productivity.

Consult With A Warehouse Storage Specialist

Gravity-fed racks offer a wide range of advantages for warehouses and distribution centers. As the demand for quicker and more efficient order fulfillment continues to grow, gravity flow racks offer an ideal solution for warehouse operators looking to remain competitive in the rapidly moving logistics landscape. To find out more about flow racks, consult with a warehouse specialist at Raymond West now.

Raymond West's Oxnard / Ventura service area includes Camarillo, Thousand Oaks, Moorpark, Newbury Park, Ventura, Santa Paula, Westlake Village, Simi Valley and all surrounding areas.

Raymond West | Oxnard Material Handling Equipment Supplier

Ventura County, CA
(805) 667-0888