Warehouse Racking Uprights: A Comprehensive Guide
Warehouse Racking Accessories
By Marc Menard
September 12, 2024 | 3 min read
While we’ve explored the foundational elements of pallet racking systems, such as uprights and types of structural racking, it’s the accessories that often make the difference between a functional storage space and a truly optimized one.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into the various types of racking accessories available, exploring their benefits and how they can contribute to a more efficient and secure warehouse environment.
Rack Stability Components
The stability of your racking system is non-negotiable. Some accessories exist to maintain rack stability, which depending on your situation may be required to safeguard both your inventory and personnel.
- Cross-Aisle Ties/Overhead Ties: These components provide additional support and bracing for taller racks, enhancing stability and preventing swaying or collapse. These are typically used at the discretion of the structural engineer depending on heights and loads.
Back-of-Rack Accessories: Enhancing Safety and Organization
The back of your racking system can sometimes be overlooked, but it’s an area where safety and organization can be significantly enhanced with certain accessories.
- Load Stop Beams: These horizontal barriers prevent pallets from being pushed too far back on the rack, minimizing the risk of products falling or becoming inaccessible.
- Dividers & Backstops: These components create compartments within rack levels, preventing products from shifting or falling, particularly in hand-stack or case-flow areas. They enhance organization and accessibility, streamlining picking and replenishment operations.
- Pallet Safety Stops: These accessories ensure pallets are placed correctly on the rack, preventing excessisve overhang and potential product damage or falls. They contribute to a safer and more organized storage environment.
- Product Containment Solutions: Options like rack netting, pallet straps, and wire enclosure panels provide additional protection against product falls, especially for loose or irregularly shaped items. They enhance safety and prevent inventory loss.
Upright Protectors: Shielding the Backbone of Your Racking
Upright protectors (shock deflectors) safeguard upright posts from accidental collisions. These impacts can cause significant damage, compromising the structural integrity of the entire system and posing a safety hazard. Upright protectors, typically made of steel or plastic, are anchored to the floor or snapped onto the upright, providing a protective barrier against these collisions.
- Standard Upright Protectors: These protectors fit around the post and baseplate, offering comprehensive protection.
- Universal Upright Protectors: These slide on top of the baseplate, making them ideal for racks with large seismic plates.
- Bolt-on Protectors: These protectors don’t require anchoring to the floor, offering flexibility and ease of installation.
- Corner Protectors: Designed for the ends of racks, these protectors offer additional coverage at vulnerable points.
- Plastic Guards: These snap-on protectors provide a lightweight and cost-effective solution for low-impact areas.
End-of-Aisle Rack Protection: Safeguarding High-Traffic Zones
The ends of aisles are particularly susceptible to forklift impacts due to the frequent turning and maneuvering in these areas. End-of-aisle rack protection provides a robust barrier, shielding the uprights at these vulnerable points. These protectors are typically anchored to the floor and cover the full length of the row, offering maximum protection.
- Single and Double Protectors: These options cater to single-deep or back-to-back rack configurations, providing tailored protection.
- Round and Formed Protectors: These styles offer varying degrees of curvature, allowing for customization based on aisle width and layout.
- Heavy-Duty and Standard-Duty Options: Choose the appropriate thickness based on the intensity of forklift traffic and potential impact forces.
From ensuring stability and safety to enhancing organization and efficiency, certain racking accessories can be important for any warehouse operation. By investing in the right accessories and implementing them correctly, you can create a storage environment that is safe for both your employees and product. Remember, consult with a qualified racking specialist to assess your specific needs and select the appropriate accessories for your warehouse.
Need help selecting the best racking setup for your warehouse? Reach out to the LIDD team for an assessment.