When it comes to warehouse storage, whether you’re reengineering your DC/warehouse or building a new one, your rack system layout should be based on your operational requirements, keeping the design flexible and scalable for the future.

There are many different types of storage rack systems to chose from, each presenting their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Differences aside, they’re all designed to store product in a steel structure with the goal of increasing storage capacity and utilizing vertical space.

In what follows, we’ll be looking at the characteristics of a single deep racking system.

Single Deep Racking

Single deep racking, also known as selective racking, is the most common type of system. It is one pallet deep and it is laid out in back-to-back rows that are separated by forklift aisles. Aisle widths can vary, depending on the type of lift equipment you have or are looking to purchase.

Each rack bay is constructed of vertical uprights and horizontal load beams. Beams are available in many different sizes and capacities. Selective racking is the least expensive system per square foot (other than floor storage).

Although single deep racking holds the lowest number of pallets compared to other rack systems, it provides direct access to every pallet. Combined with an appropriate aisle width, the selective racking system proves particularly efficient when you have high inventory turnover. Selective rack systems are most suitable for operations with relatively low levels of inventory per SKU. Operations that need to store higher volumes should consider using denser storage systems, which require less overall storage space.