For optimising storage space properly within industrial warehouses, there are two different options that the industries choose – pallet racking and shelving. These two options can significantly impact factors like efficiency, the product’s safety, and storage cost. Since both the racking systems have advantages and disadvantages, the proper option should be selected depending on the business needs. Both options are popular among warehouses for warehouse racking systems in London.

What is pallet racking?

It is a storage solution designed for storing large, heavy, and bulky items in the warehouse. Pallets are designed to bear the burden of high-volume inventory. These systems can be customised according to the warehouse size, layout, and type of goods being stored. Hence, pallet racking systems are highly scalable options.

Benefits of pallet racking:

These options are beneficial for warehouses with limited floor space. They help maximise vertical space and store items properly. 

  • These flexible racks can be adjusted according to the space and storage needs.
  • These pallets are suitable for handling industrial products, large shipments and bulk stock.
  • These pallets are forklift-friendly and are essential for fast-moving operations and shipping practices.

What is shelving?

Shelving is more popular among industrial warehouses, where smaller and lighter items are stored with manual access. Shelving units are not flexible. They are static and available in different sizes and materials to suit industrial needs.

Benefits of shelving:

They are ideal for retail stock storage, archives, and manual picking operations, providing easy product accessibility.

  • They are used by small businesses and small warehouses where a diverse range of inventory storage is required.
  • They are customisable as per the type of inventory that is being stocked on the shelves.
  • No heavy machinery is required to pick up the shelves as the staff can manually handle them without the intervention of forklifts.

Which is the right option for industrial warehouses?

Industrial warehouses generally deal with bulk goods and heavy inventory. Manual picking or storing small items is limited in industrial warehouses, so pallet racking is a more feasible option. For retail warehouses where the number of items is small and requires manual intervention, shelving is a better option. 

For industrial racking systems in London, contact Blackwater Racking Solutions. We provide racking solutions for warehouses and industrial units. If you have space constraints, contact us for proper storage solutions.