Live Storage gives good overview of the items on stock because there is accuracy and efficiency.
It provides a good stock rotation as it is using FIFO principle.
It is suitable for fast moving and perishable goods that are received and despatched in large quantities.
Picking errors can also be minimised by giving each product a dedicated lane.
January 19, 2009
January 18, 2009
Kailee's Group Question- Since there are so many types of pallets, what is the best palletised storage out of all ?
To choose the best palletized storage out of these pallets, we have to consider the characteristics of the items stored, e.g. weight, package and size, stocks and throughput levels, how much is the company capital, warehouse layout and the size of the warehouse, e.g. height, space of warehouse. Other factor includes value of the goods and deterioration factors. There is no best palletized storage as it will have to depend on the items and company characteristics.
For Block Stacking, it is limit to certain weight/levels and is a poor use of cubic capacity in the warehouse, but it is popular due to its low costs or rather, no cost is involved at all. This technique is suitable when there are a limited number of product lines. If you want to choose this technique, you have to consider hazard factors- fire risks and number of line items.
Adjustable Pallet Racking (APR) is the second cheapest in the term of costs. This technique is suitable as it is inexpensive, also, beam height can be adjusted for different pallet load heights. However building space utilization is low, only 50%.
Double deep pallet racking gives a space utilization of approximately 60%. This system is suitable for line items of having at least 2 pallets worth of stocks. However, there is a need to have double reach trucks, which will provide improved space utilization. There is a loss of absolute FIFO.
Drive-in and drive-through racking has a space utilization rate of about 70%. It is suitable for a small number of high stock product lines.
Live Storage has a space utilization rate of about 80%. It is expensive and suitable only for high throughput per line item. The key advantage of live storage is its high density storage. As live storage system provides automatic FIFO product rotation, it is suitable for perishable and time-sensitive products. However, the system is limited by the size of your facility.
Powered Mobile Storage provide high space utilization rate of approximately 90% and random access to every pallet, however it is the most expensive. It is suitable for low throughput products and long-term storage purpose.
Thus, in conclusion adjustable pallet racking (APR) is cheap in term of costs, however space utilization rate is only 50%. Mobile racking system provides the highest space utilization rate, approximately 90% but it is the most expensive, around $200,000.
For Block Stacking, it is limit to certain weight/levels and is a poor use of cubic capacity in the warehouse, but it is popular due to its low costs or rather, no cost is involved at all. This technique is suitable when there are a limited number of product lines. If you want to choose this technique, you have to consider hazard factors- fire risks and number of line items.
Adjustable Pallet Racking (APR) is the second cheapest in the term of costs. This technique is suitable as it is inexpensive, also, beam height can be adjusted for different pallet load heights. However building space utilization is low, only 50%.
Double deep pallet racking gives a space utilization of approximately 60%. This system is suitable for line items of having at least 2 pallets worth of stocks. However, there is a need to have double reach trucks, which will provide improved space utilization. There is a loss of absolute FIFO.
Drive-in and drive-through racking has a space utilization rate of about 70%. It is suitable for a small number of high stock product lines.
Live Storage has a space utilization rate of about 80%. It is expensive and suitable only for high throughput per line item. The key advantage of live storage is its high density storage. As live storage system provides automatic FIFO product rotation, it is suitable for perishable and time-sensitive products. However, the system is limited by the size of your facility.
Powered Mobile Storage provide high space utilization rate of approximately 90% and random access to every pallet, however it is the most expensive. It is suitable for low throughput products and long-term storage purpose.
Thus, in conclusion adjustable pallet racking (APR) is cheap in term of costs, however space utilization rate is only 50%. Mobile racking system provides the highest space utilization rate, approximately 90% but it is the most expensive, around $200,000.
Pallet Management System
Hi,
I came across this article about Pallet Management System. It is an interesting one as I did not know there was an advancement in technology in managing pallets!
Regards,
Janis
The Article
Posted: 28-03-2007
Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/business-articles/pallet-management-systems-123314.html
Pallet Management
Pallets are the backbone of the transport industry. Almost all of the items that are bought or sold at a store spent part of their life on a pallet. In the United States over 600 million pallets are manufactured every year. That equates to an average of over 2 pallets for every person living in the country.
Pallets used to be disposable items that were good for a few transports and when they broke they would be thrown out. Two major changes in the industry have changed the way pallets are managed. The first change was a continual rise in the price of lumber. In 1998 wood pallets represented 90% of all the pallets manufactured. With the rise in the price of wood pallets became more expensive to replace when they broke. The other factor which affected pallet management was the rising costs of rubbish removal. Pallets were now both expensive to buy and expensive to throw away when they brake.
Pallet Management System
With these two factors costing the retail and shipping industries billions of dollars, the pallet management industry became more important. Pallet management systems looked for non-wood alternatives to solve their pallet management problems. The best solution found was plastics. PolymerLogistics introduced a pallet management system that was entirely based on plastic pallets and plastic shipping crates.
When compared to the other materials available plastics became the logical choice. Plastic pallets can be made from recycled materials and can be recycled when they brake. Plastic pallets in pallet management systems are sent back to manufacturer there by removing the cost of waste management. Plastic pallets also hold over 5 times the weight that fiber based pallets can carry, making them more economical.
Pallet Management systems work with logistics to assure that pallets are available when needed. When pallets break they are replaced and either repaired or recycled. Pallet management is the logical choice for retailers looking to cut costs and increase productivity.
I came across this article about Pallet Management System. It is an interesting one as I did not know there was an advancement in technology in managing pallets!
Regards,
Janis
The Article
Posted: 28-03-2007
Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/business-articles/pallet-management-systems-123314.html
Pallet Management
Pallets are the backbone of the transport industry. Almost all of the items that are bought or sold at a store spent part of their life on a pallet. In the United States over 600 million pallets are manufactured every year. That equates to an average of over 2 pallets for every person living in the country.
Pallets used to be disposable items that were good for a few transports and when they broke they would be thrown out. Two major changes in the industry have changed the way pallets are managed. The first change was a continual rise in the price of lumber. In 1998 wood pallets represented 90% of all the pallets manufactured. With the rise in the price of wood pallets became more expensive to replace when they broke. The other factor which affected pallet management was the rising costs of rubbish removal. Pallets were now both expensive to buy and expensive to throw away when they brake.
Pallet Management System
With these two factors costing the retail and shipping industries billions of dollars, the pallet management industry became more important. Pallet management systems looked for non-wood alternatives to solve their pallet management problems. The best solution found was plastics. PolymerLogistics introduced a pallet management system that was entirely based on plastic pallets and plastic shipping crates.
When compared to the other materials available plastics became the logical choice. Plastic pallets can be made from recycled materials and can be recycled when they brake. Plastic pallets in pallet management systems are sent back to manufacturer there by removing the cost of waste management. Plastic pallets also hold over 5 times the weight that fiber based pallets can carry, making them more economical.
Pallet Management systems work with logistics to assure that pallets are available when needed. When pallets break they are replaced and either repaired or recycled. Pallet management is the logical choice for retailers looking to cut costs and increase productivity.
Any Questions?
If you have questions or comments regarding pallets for us, do post it here.
Thank you.
Regards,
Thank you.
Regards,
January 17, 2009
Pallet Flow Rack
Pallet Flow systems are high density pallet storage systems that utilize depth to increase capacity. This system uses a slightly inclined rail with rollers that allow pallets to move easily along the sloped plane. These systems are also called gravity flow or dynamic flow systems. The pallet flow system often has complex motion and braking systems to control the speed of the moving pallet. Pallet Flow racking systems are either a FIFO (first in, first out) or a LIFO (last in, first out) storage system. If the system is loaded from the back and unloaded from the front, its FIFO; if the system is loaded and unloaded from the front its a LIFO system.
Usefulness of topic in DCM
1. First-in, first-out (FIFO) inventory control.
Loads are transported, via the flow rails from the loading end to the unloading end of the storage system. The first load in is always the first load to be taken out. This constant stock rotation is especially beneficial with perishable or time-sensitive goods, such as food or pharmaceuticals, where a lost product becomes a lost profit.
2. Reduced handling costs.
Once loaded, product rotation is automatic. The SK3400 rack eliminates labor and fork truck operation to rearrange loads. And Steel King flow rails are powered by gravity, requiring no electricity or other utilities.
3.Reduced handling equipment costs.
Fork lifts are required only for the initial loading and final unloading. Because only two aisles are necessary, aisle space can be reduced by 75 percent. Fewer fork lifts, operating fewer hours, and consuming less fuel can accomplish the same handling function.
4.Time and labor savings.
With only two aisles, each dedicated to specific functions (loading or unloading), traffic is more orderly, employees are more efficient and overall productivity is improved.
5. Space savings.
Because storage density can be doubled, storage capacity can be increased within the same storage area, or a portion of your existing storage area can be made available for other uses.
6. Construction cost savings.
By increasing storage capacity within existing facilities, the need for new construction could be eliminated. When new construction is necessary, building size and cost can be reduced by up to 50 percent. A smaller warehousing area, in turn, can reduce insurance, land acquisition costs, and taxes.
7. Operating expense reduction.
Higher density storage and consequently smaller storage areas also mean less area to heat, illuminate, air condition, and/or refrigerate.
8. Decreased fork lift damage.
Decreased fork lift handling of loads can result in less product damage and less potential for collision damage to the rack structure.
9. Flexibility.
Flow storage systems have been successfully installed as a part of virtually every storage function, including raw materials receiving and storage, work-in-process, buffer storage, finished goods, order picking, and cross docking.
Push-Back Rack System
View a push back rack clip on how it works:
Push back pallet rack system works by pallets are placed by forklift on nested carts riding on inclined rails. Each pallet is then pushed back by subsequent pallet loading, exposing the next cart. When removing product, the forklift takes out the front pallet, allowing the pallets on carts behind it to roll gently to the front of the rack. The nested carts make placement and retrieval easy.
Push Back Pallet Rack Systems are last-in, first-out storage.
Push-Back pallet racking is high density pallet storage where product are stored two, three, or four deep. Pallets are retrieved and fed from one aisle allowing for the first pallet-in to become the last pallet-out,allows efficient use of space and reduces pick times through simplified stock accessibility.
The advantages of choosing push back rack system are:
1. Better use of warehouse space - Push back offers up to 90% more product storage than selective rack systems.
2. Store a variety of SKUs on different levels of lanes for easy product access.
3. Interlocking carts help percent dangerous jamming and costly product damage.
4. Increased selectivity - up to 400% more selectivity than drive-in racks.
5. High storage density coupled with selectivity for faster pick rates.
6. Color coded carts for easy visual inventory.
7. Large target for loading and unloading.
8. Maximizes space utilization.
9. "Last in, first out" inventory.
2. Store a variety of SKUs on different levels of lanes for easy product access.
3. Interlocking carts help percent dangerous jamming and costly product damage.
4. Increased selectivity - up to 400% more selectivity than drive-in racks.
5. High storage density coupled with selectivity for faster pick rates.
6. Color coded carts for easy visual inventory.
7. Large target for loading and unloading.
8. Maximizes space utilization.
9. "Last in, first out" inventory.
The picture above show Push back system designed to store pallets of motorcycles.
Source:
Adjustable Pallet Racking (APR)
APR is also called 'Selective Racking'
This system consists of vertical frames and horizontal beams, with the beams being adjustable in height to accommodate a variety of pallet sizes.
It is the
Adjustable pallet racking systems is the most popular storage system in third party logistics distribution centres, raw material and finished goods warehouses and in wholesale and retail businesses where many types and varieties of goods are stored.
It is the
Adjustable pallet racking systems is the most popular storage system in third party logistics distribution centres, raw material and finished goods warehouses and in wholesale and retail businesses where many types and varieties of goods are stored.
It is widely specified in virtually every industry and easily adapts to the vast and complex range of products needing to be stored. Its main feature is the ability to select pallets anywhere in the warehouse instantly, at the same time,not needing to specify specialized handling equipment.
Due to the versatility of adjustable beam pallet racking, it invariably becomes the base for the various integrated storage and retrieval systems.
APR is extremely cost effective, not only in the racking itself, but also there is no need for expensive handling equipment or building requirements. It is also easy to install.
APR is extremely cost effective, not only in the racking itself, but also there is no need for expensive handling equipment or building requirements. It is also easy to install.
-Beam height is adjustable for different pallet load heights
-The racks can be dismantled and moved
-There is a random access to every pallet
-Damaged parts can be easily replaced
-It is not expensive
-Designed to suit all load sizes and available space
-Maximum use of space
Disadvantages of APR:
-Low space utilization due to the reason that fork truck aisle give access to only two rows of racking.
-For racking above 8m in height, a chemically treated floor is needed to stabilize the racking with the load.
Palletised Storage- Block Stacking
Block stacking is a palletized storage that does not use any storage equipment. Loaded pallets are placed directly on the floor and built up in stacks on top of one another to a maximum stable height. Ware house safety is one of the primary concerns in warehousing. Therefore it is recommended to have a maximum stable height of stacks e.g. usually not more than six pallets. This aims in preventing accidents of toppling pallets. Bulk storage is done using block stacking. Block stacking can result in the minimum cost of storage since cube utilization is high and no storage medium is required. But in this storing material accessibility is low since only top of the front stack is accessible and loads at the bottom of the stack do not require support. Therefore, the goods is taken out Late In First Out (LIFO). Storage racks are used when support and/or material accessibility is required.
It requires pallets to be stackable, which means the container walls should be sturdy enough to bear the weight of several pallets. Block stacking is the most labour intensive method, because nothing moves unless a forklift truck moves it.
Since it's only stacking the loaded pallets onto one another, and no racking or equipment needed, its cost is very low and is easy to implement. Because of it low set up cost, it tends to be used when a warehouse is first starts up, even where it does not fit long term requirements.
Usefulness of topic in DCM:
-lower capital cost
-no stroage equipment needed
-utlization of space
-suitable for high throughputs
Constraints of topic in DCM:
-limit on stack height which can restrict the use of building height
- reduces storage capacity
-risk of damage of goods. Eg: fire risk
videos
Making of Pallets
During Loading of Goods
Live Storage
Pallet Truck
Pallet Videos posted by Mr Johnny Tan
More Types of Pallet Racking
Mobile Pallet Racking
The racking is fitted on guided mobile bases with the aim of reducing the number of aisles and increasing warehouse capacity without losing direct access to each pallet.
Each base is motorised and fitted with mechanisms to enable movement, electronic equipment and safety systems in order to guarantee safe and efficient operations.
Benefits:
-Maximum use of floor space as only one operating aisle required
-High occupancy rates
-100% access to all pallets
-Particularly suitable for cold rooms
-Use of conventional fork-lift trucks
-Optimal system for cold stores (both refrigeration and freezer types)
-Increase in warehouse capacity
-Elimination of individual access aisles
Pallet Live Storage
This is a system where Pallets are loaded from one end and roll forward under the force of gravity when a pallet is retrieved from the bottom end. The pallets are stored in a block system on inclined roller conveyor tracks supported on pallet racking. It can be used for pallet and carton storage applications. This eliminates the need for access aisles in front of each pallet.
Benefits:
-Storage according to the FIFO-principle
-Efficient preparation of despatch at the loading dock
-Significant reduction of travel times
-Good overview of all items on stock
-Increased productivity due to separate loading and picking aisles
-Increases in efficiency of up to 60 % over conventional racking Automatic stock rotation
Drive-In, Drive-Through and VNA Racking
Drive-in Racking
This is a racking system where the pallet is supported on the edge of the pallet and the fork lift truck drives into the racking. It enables a lift-truck to drive into the rack several pallet positions. It is the same as drive-through rack, except closed at one end, allowing entry from only one end (LIFO)
Drive-Through Racking
It is a Drive-in rack that is accessible from both sides of the rack. Loads are supported by rails attached to upright frames. It Opens at both ends, allowing access from both ends. It can store a large amount of similar loads in a smaller area. But it requires loads of a similar width and space because it can be accessed by both sides of the rack. It is suitable for First-in, first-out (FIFO) goods.
Benefits of Drive-In and Drive-Through rack Systems:
-Eliminate conventional traffic aisles
-High density storage
-Floor-to-ceiling palletized storage
-Lower costs
-Greater Throughput FIFO & LIFO inventory management
Very Narrow-Aisle Pallet Racking
Pallet racks can be stored together because they are loaded and unloaded using a narrow-aisle lift truck. This enables aisles to be extremely narrow and ensures that space is used efficiently. With VNA racking, there is flexibility in rotation and easy access to stock. The amount of storage used in the warehouse can be maximized.
VNA racking increases pallet storage by using vertical space but it maintains the advantages of selective racking by ensuring 100% selectivity.
Key Benefits:
-Maximizes storage space
-Maximizes storage space
-Reduces wasted space by using the vertical height of a building
-All pallets are accessible to the lift trucks
-Less product damage and fewer picking errors occur than with bulk stacking
Double-Deep Pallet Racking
Double-Deep Pallet Racking
They are racks that are two pallet position deep. Double-reach fork lift is required when loading and unloading goods. Last In First Out (LIFO) inventory is easily accommodated by placing the last pallet in the front slot so it is the first to be picked.
Key Benefits:
-Doubles the density of racking between the aisles
-Doubles the density of racking between the aisles
-Provides double the storage space
-Flexibility
Advantages:
Over Single Selective Racking
-Floor space savings of 30%
Over Single Selective Racking
-Floor space savings of 30%
-Storage capacity increases by 40%
-Same low cost per pallet as selective rack
Roles and Effects of pallet
Roles and effects of pallets
USEFULNESS
1. Lesser use of manpower lead to reduce delivery and transfer costs
Lesser use of manpower means lesser use of labour required in handling pallets.
But Pallets still require labour to help out in the delivery and transferring of goods in process when delivering the goods to the warehouse/factory.
2. Eliminate manual handling system lead to improvement in productivity and work efficiency
Pallet is useful because it allows the goods to be stored on the pallets so that the Material Handling Equipments can carry the pallets.
It improves the productivity and work efficiently of the Material Handling Equipment and Labour
3. Efficient use of time lead to Save loading and unloading time
As time management is important and there are a lot of goods due to the leadtime, the pallet saves loading and unloading time.
4. Facilities Safety handling lead to Eliminate possible injuries
Handling goods manually may incur injuries.
With the pallet, it is more safe because the labour just put the goods on the pallets then the pallets will transport the goods by being carried by Material Handling Equipments.
5. Provide more capacity lead to Allow for more storage of goods on the pallet
There are a lot of goods waiting to be transported or handled so the pallets allowed more storage space for the goods to be handled.
6. Reduce Labour cost and storage costs lead to Minimise cost
In Logistics and Supply Chain, the key objective is the Minimise cost. When you minimise costs, it also minimise labour and storage costs.
7. Fewer errors incurred as the goods are standardized lead to Accuracy
The pallets allow fewer errors to incur as there is a standardization of pallets. Counting is also easier when there is quantity check
8. Can be customised.
It can be customized as pallet specifications can be designed to accommodate any unique automated equipment performance requirements.
9. Save Packaging cost.
If you are over-packaging your product to compensate for non-uniform pallets, it will cost you more money.
If forklift is not properly handled when moving the palletized goods from a place to another, it may cause damage to other properties or injuries to the person handling it.
Also, as most pallets are made of wood, it can contain splinters
2. Pallet can get mouldy
Wooden pallets can get mouldy if they are exposed to moisture
3. Waste of storage space
This is when pallet is not fully utilized. Waste of storage space will in turn lead to increase of storage cost.
USEFULNESS
1. Lesser use of manpower lead to reduce delivery and transfer costs
Lesser use of manpower means lesser use of labour required in handling pallets.
But Pallets still require labour to help out in the delivery and transferring of goods in process when delivering the goods to the warehouse/factory.
2. Eliminate manual handling system lead to improvement in productivity and work efficiency
Pallet is useful because it allows the goods to be stored on the pallets so that the Material Handling Equipments can carry the pallets.
It improves the productivity and work efficiently of the Material Handling Equipment and Labour
3. Efficient use of time lead to Save loading and unloading time
As time management is important and there are a lot of goods due to the leadtime, the pallet saves loading and unloading time.
4. Facilities Safety handling lead to Eliminate possible injuries
Handling goods manually may incur injuries.
With the pallet, it is more safe because the labour just put the goods on the pallets then the pallets will transport the goods by being carried by Material Handling Equipments.
5. Provide more capacity lead to Allow for more storage of goods on the pallet
There are a lot of goods waiting to be transported or handled so the pallets allowed more storage space for the goods to be handled.
6. Reduce Labour cost and storage costs lead to Minimise cost
In Logistics and Supply Chain, the key objective is the Minimise cost. When you minimise costs, it also minimise labour and storage costs.
7. Fewer errors incurred as the goods are standardized lead to Accuracy
The pallets allow fewer errors to incur as there is a standardization of pallets. Counting is also easier when there is quantity check
8. Can be customised.
It can be customized as pallet specifications can be designed to accommodate any unique automated equipment performance requirements.
9. Save Packaging cost.
If you are over-packaging your product to compensate for non-uniform pallets, it will cost you more money.
CONSTRAINTS
1. Damanged of other properties/InjuriesIf forklift is not properly handled when moving the palletized goods from a place to another, it may cause damage to other properties or injuries to the person handling it.
Also, as most pallets are made of wood, it can contain splinters
2. Pallet can get mouldy
Wooden pallets can get mouldy if they are exposed to moisture
3. Waste of storage space
This is when pallet is not fully utilized. Waste of storage space will in turn lead to increase of storage cost.
Choosing a Pallet Rack
Date: 8 July 2008
Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/organizational-articles/choosing-pallet-racking-475929.html
Pallet racking is the backbone of ensuring that warehouse operations run smoothly. Pallets are used to transport goods that have been packaged for shipping or storage purposes. The pallets ensure that the goods are secure during transport and storage and won’t become damaged. Pallet racking is used to store the pallets that contain the goods. Without pallet racking, pallets would sit piled up on the floor and could easily become damaged. By choosing pallet racking that easily provides adequate storage for pallets you can ensure that your goods will stay in top condition during storage.
When choosing pallet racking it is important to ensure that the rack is sturdy and durable. Though some companies might decide that this is an area where they could cut costs, most agree that it is vitally important to select durable pallet racking that will endure the test of time. Pallet racks should be large enough to store the amount of pallets necessary as well as have openings to make it easy to add and remove pallets.
An important feature to look for in pallet racking is whether or not you can adjust the size. This is a great feature that will make certain that your racking will work for many different size pallets. You should also ensure that the racks are easy to assemble and install. Depending upon the size of your warehouse you should also make sure that the pallet racking you select would fit easily and not take up too much space. Since pallet racking stacks pallets in vertical layers they are very space efficient. You’ll also find that by arranging pallet racks strategically you can maximize the amount of storage provided. It’s important to make sure that you place or arrange pallet racks in a way that will allow plenty of room for forklifts to drive through. By taking these factors into consideration you can ensure that you choose pallet racks that meet all of your special needs.
The structural components that make up pallet racking are essential to determining whether or not the rack will meet your needs. The type of beams that the racking is equipped with will give you an idea as to how strong, sturdy, and durable the racks will be as well. Also, there are regulations that determine how many pallets can be stacked safely.
Since warehouses depend heavily upon pallet racking, it is imperative to do your research and choose the best racks for your warehouse needs. You should have a clear understanding of where the racks will be placed before making your purchase, as well as know how many pallets you plan to store. When it comes to performing inventory, your choice of racking will have a direct emphasis on your inventory. By keeping your racking in an organized manner, you can keep track of your inventory easily and efficiently. Knowing what type of pallet racking is best suited for your goods is the best way to ensure that you select the right racks.
Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/organizational-articles/choosing-pallet-racking-475929.html
Pallet racking is the backbone of ensuring that warehouse operations run smoothly. Pallets are used to transport goods that have been packaged for shipping or storage purposes. The pallets ensure that the goods are secure during transport and storage and won’t become damaged. Pallet racking is used to store the pallets that contain the goods. Without pallet racking, pallets would sit piled up on the floor and could easily become damaged. By choosing pallet racking that easily provides adequate storage for pallets you can ensure that your goods will stay in top condition during storage.
When choosing pallet racking it is important to ensure that the rack is sturdy and durable. Though some companies might decide that this is an area where they could cut costs, most agree that it is vitally important to select durable pallet racking that will endure the test of time. Pallet racks should be large enough to store the amount of pallets necessary as well as have openings to make it easy to add and remove pallets.
An important feature to look for in pallet racking is whether or not you can adjust the size. This is a great feature that will make certain that your racking will work for many different size pallets. You should also ensure that the racks are easy to assemble and install. Depending upon the size of your warehouse you should also make sure that the pallet racking you select would fit easily and not take up too much space. Since pallet racking stacks pallets in vertical layers they are very space efficient. You’ll also find that by arranging pallet racks strategically you can maximize the amount of storage provided. It’s important to make sure that you place or arrange pallet racks in a way that will allow plenty of room for forklifts to drive through. By taking these factors into consideration you can ensure that you choose pallet racks that meet all of your special needs.
The structural components that make up pallet racking are essential to determining whether or not the rack will meet your needs. The type of beams that the racking is equipped with will give you an idea as to how strong, sturdy, and durable the racks will be as well. Also, there are regulations that determine how many pallets can be stacked safely.
Since warehouses depend heavily upon pallet racking, it is imperative to do your research and choose the best racks for your warehouse needs. You should have a clear understanding of where the racks will be placed before making your purchase, as well as know how many pallets you plan to store. When it comes to performing inventory, your choice of racking will have a direct emphasis on your inventory. By keeping your racking in an organized manner, you can keep track of your inventory easily and efficiently. Knowing what type of pallet racking is best suited for your goods is the best way to ensure that you select the right racks.
January 16, 2009
Do you know?
Do you know that back in 1931, it takes 3 days to unload a boxcar containing 13,000 cases of unpalletized can goods? However, with the used of pallets, the identical task took only 4 hours! With palletized loads, fewer people can handle more goods. It also can increase warehouse storage capacity and throughput, reducing the need for additional warehouse capacity.
Different types of Pallet materials
Different types of Pallet materials
Pallets can be made by different types of materials. Here are some examples:
Most common because they represent a good balance of the five design parameters discussed above—they are strong, stiff, relatively durable, and inexpensive. Because wood pallets have been around so long, many packaging and material handling systems are “built” around the use and performance of wood pallets. Furthermore, wood pallets are easy to prototype using a computer aided design program called PDS that estimates pallet strength, stiffness, and service life. This program is available for wood pallets only.
Wood pallets are also easy to repair. In recent years, the pallet repair and remanufacturing industry has grown to accommodate approximately 233 million pallets per year. Some disadvantages of wood pallets are that they have metal fasteners (nails) that can potentially damage products. Wood pallets can also have splinters, moisture related problems, bugs, and sometimes significant performance variation between pallets.
It is estimated that plastic pallets make up 2-4% of new pallet production in the US, or 15 million new plastic pallets per year. Plastic pallets cost anywhere from 3 to 6 times as much as wood pallets.
The most common plastic materials for pallets are HDPE, PP, and PVC. The most common manufacturing process is structural foam molding, but other processes include injection molding, profile extrusion, rotational molding, compression molding, and thermoforming.
General advantages of plastic pallets are high durability, cleanliness, no metal fasteners, bug free, weather resistance, and flexible design potential. Disadvantages include higher price, difficulty to prototype, low friction, low stiffness, lack of repair options, and fire safety ratings. Plastic pallets are most common in captive or closed loop warehouse environments supporting 2000 pounds or less. The automotive, dairy, pharmaceutical, USPS, and beverage industries commonly use plastic pallets.
In Japan and other Asian countries, it is estimated that plastic pallets make up 50% or more of the reusable pallet pools. Composite Wood Pallets Wood composites, such as plywood, OSB, particle board, and laminated veneer lumber, represent 2-4% of the pallet market. Beer pallets were a historical market for composite pallets. More recently, due to the implementation of international pest regulations that apply to pallets made of solid wood, composites pallets have become a desirable alternative for import/export use. Composites are exempt from pest regulations and often have a lower price than plastic or metal pallets.
Wood composite pallets are also durable, dry, provide complete pallet deck coverage, and are easy to prototype (they can also be designed using PDS). Some disadvantages are that they cost more than solid wood, are expensive to repair, less weather resistant than plastic or metal, and still require fasteners.
Paper Based Pallets
Paper pallets represent less than 1% of the market, and include corrugated, honeycomb, solid fiberboard, and molded pulp. In the case of containers, there has been dramatic shift over the years from wood to corrugated paperboard. This has not been the case for pallets. While a corrugated box is less expensive than a wood box, a paper pallet costs more than the equivalent wood pallet. Paper pallets mainly find acceptance within niche markets with light loads. Recently, new markets have opened, driven mostly by international pest regulations and increased airfreight shipping with weight-based charges.
The key advantages of paper pallets are that they are lightweight, easily recyclable, have a smooth deck surface, and are dry and bug free. Disadvantages include a price higher than wood, susceptibility to moisture, lack of stiffness with flexible loads, low durability, and low product protection.
Metal pallets make up less than 1% of the market. Materials include carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum. Of these, carbon steel offers excellent durability at the lowest cost. Stainless steel doesn’t require a paint coating, and is preferred for such applications as clean room environments. Aluminum offers the durability of metal at a lighter weight. Carbon steel units are relatively expensive compared to wood and stainless and aluminum cost about 2-3 times that of carbon steel. Long term costs, however, can be lower than wood.
General advantages of metal pallets are high strength and stiffness, excellent durability, bug free, no splinters, sanitary, and recyclable. Disadvantages include a higher initial price, significant weight, low friction, and susceptibility to rusting (carbon steel). Metal is primarily used in captive or closed loop environments where durability and product protection are key performance requirements. Metal units today are increasingly price competitive and lighter in weight. Primary industries that use metal pallets include automotive, pharmaceutical, lawn tractors, motorcycles, and tires.
While the majority of pallets are made of wood, pallets manufactured from plastic, metal, and paper can also be found. Each material has pros and cons (cost, environmental impact, etc.) depending on which industry is using the pallets and which variables it is trying to maximize or minimize.
Wooden pallets are the most common used pallets in the United States and in the world. It is estimated that 90% of all pallets are made of wood.
So why are 90% of all pallets made from wood? The answer: Wooden pallets are cheap compared to their properties. There are a lot of advantages to wood pallets but also some disadvantages.
Wooden pallets dimensions
There are several dimensions available to wooden pallets. The most common one in the United States is about 48'' x 40'' x 5'' (1016mm x 1219mm x 120mm).
In Europe they usually use 47.24'' x 32.50'' x 5.00'' (800mm x 1200mm x 120mm). That standard is called EUR- or EU pallets.
But as mentioned above: there are several dimensions of wooden pallets several hundreds actually. If you want more information about standards used internationally you should read ISO 6870 that’s defining 6 dimensions.
Recycling wooden pallets
Damaged wooden pallets are often reconditioned using materials from other wooden pallets. Those wooden pallets that can't be repaired are often turned into wood chips that can be used as animal bedding, playground mulch or burned as wooden pellets.
Buying wooden pallets
There are a couple of things to think about when you want to buy woodenpallets. If you only need a couple of pallets you may want to take a look on the "used pallet" market. Read more about that here.
If you want to buy a large amount of wooden pallets or if you want some special dimensions you're probably better of invite tenders from different companies.
If the wooden pallets should be used to transport goods internationally you have to specify that as those pallets has to be treated against invasive species of insects and plant diseases.
Wooden pallets advantages:
* Wooden pallets are cheap compared to plastic and metal pallets.
* Wooden pallets are recyclable and made from renewable resources.
* Wooden pallets have high friction compared to plastic and metal pallets.
* Wooden pallets are very strong and stiff in relation to their cost.
* Wooden pallets can easily be repaired if damaged.
Wooden pallets disadvantages:
* Wooden pallets can contain invasive species of insects and plant diseases and have to be treated in order to be shipped internationally.
* Wooden pallets can get moldy if they are exposed to moisture.
* Wooden pallets can be hard to keep clean.* Wooden pallets can contain splinters
Conclusion
Wooden pallets are very cost effective and are probably a good choice in most cases. You should look at alternatives when you are looking for a specific property like low weight or cleanliness
However, there are also some reasons as to why plastic pallets are better than wooden pallets:
Advantages of using plastic pallets:
1) Can be nested to gain volume units in small shipping space.
2) Extremely tough and durable for reuse many times.
3) Have a much longer service life than wooden pallets.
4) Are exceptionally light (18-20 Lbs).
5) Generates lower shipping cost (1200 per 40 feet container).
6) Ecology friendly as they are made of recyclable material.
7) Creates a safer work environment, no nails or broken pieces.
8) Can withstand severe temperatures (until 20 grades under zero).
9) Resistant to water, acids and other chemicals.
10) Impervious to insects, nematodes and diseases.
11) Under no export /import regulations.
12) Less expensive with the arrival of new technologies.
13) Requires less plastic wrap to stabilize product on pallet.
14) There is a cost for getting rid of wooden pallets once they are damaged.
Pallets can be made by different types of materials. Here are some examples:
Wood Pallets
Most common because they represent a good balance of the five design parameters discussed above—they are strong, stiff, relatively durable, and inexpensive. Because wood pallets have been around so long, many packaging and material handling systems are “built” around the use and performance of wood pallets. Furthermore, wood pallets are easy to prototype using a computer aided design program called PDS that estimates pallet strength, stiffness, and service life. This program is available for wood pallets only.
Wood pallets are also easy to repair. In recent years, the pallet repair and remanufacturing industry has grown to accommodate approximately 233 million pallets per year. Some disadvantages of wood pallets are that they have metal fasteners (nails) that can potentially damage products. Wood pallets can also have splinters, moisture related problems, bugs, and sometimes significant performance variation between pallets.
Plastic Pallets
It is estimated that plastic pallets make up 2-4% of new pallet production in the US, or 15 million new plastic pallets per year. Plastic pallets cost anywhere from 3 to 6 times as much as wood pallets.
The most common plastic materials for pallets are HDPE, PP, and PVC. The most common manufacturing process is structural foam molding, but other processes include injection molding, profile extrusion, rotational molding, compression molding, and thermoforming.
General advantages of plastic pallets are high durability, cleanliness, no metal fasteners, bug free, weather resistance, and flexible design potential. Disadvantages include higher price, difficulty to prototype, low friction, low stiffness, lack of repair options, and fire safety ratings. Plastic pallets are most common in captive or closed loop warehouse environments supporting 2000 pounds or less. The automotive, dairy, pharmaceutical, USPS, and beverage industries commonly use plastic pallets.
In Japan and other Asian countries, it is estimated that plastic pallets make up 50% or more of the reusable pallet pools. Composite Wood Pallets Wood composites, such as plywood, OSB, particle board, and laminated veneer lumber, represent 2-4% of the pallet market. Beer pallets were a historical market for composite pallets. More recently, due to the implementation of international pest regulations that apply to pallets made of solid wood, composites pallets have become a desirable alternative for import/export use. Composites are exempt from pest regulations and often have a lower price than plastic or metal pallets.
Wood composite pallets are also durable, dry, provide complete pallet deck coverage, and are easy to prototype (they can also be designed using PDS). Some disadvantages are that they cost more than solid wood, are expensive to repair, less weather resistant than plastic or metal, and still require fasteners.
Paper Based Pallets
Paper pallets represent less than 1% of the market, and include corrugated, honeycomb, solid fiberboard, and molded pulp. In the case of containers, there has been dramatic shift over the years from wood to corrugated paperboard. This has not been the case for pallets. While a corrugated box is less expensive than a wood box, a paper pallet costs more than the equivalent wood pallet. Paper pallets mainly find acceptance within niche markets with light loads. Recently, new markets have opened, driven mostly by international pest regulations and increased airfreight shipping with weight-based charges.
The key advantages of paper pallets are that they are lightweight, easily recyclable, have a smooth deck surface, and are dry and bug free. Disadvantages include a price higher than wood, susceptibility to moisture, lack of stiffness with flexible loads, low durability, and low product protection.
Metal Pallets
Metal pallets make up less than 1% of the market. Materials include carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum. Of these, carbon steel offers excellent durability at the lowest cost. Stainless steel doesn’t require a paint coating, and is preferred for such applications as clean room environments. Aluminum offers the durability of metal at a lighter weight. Carbon steel units are relatively expensive compared to wood and stainless and aluminum cost about 2-3 times that of carbon steel. Long term costs, however, can be lower than wood.
General advantages of metal pallets are high strength and stiffness, excellent durability, bug free, no splinters, sanitary, and recyclable. Disadvantages include a higher initial price, significant weight, low friction, and susceptibility to rusting (carbon steel). Metal is primarily used in captive or closed loop environments where durability and product protection are key performance requirements. Metal units today are increasingly price competitive and lighter in weight. Primary industries that use metal pallets include automotive, pharmaceutical, lawn tractors, motorcycles, and tires.
While the majority of pallets are made of wood, pallets manufactured from plastic, metal, and paper can also be found. Each material has pros and cons (cost, environmental impact, etc.) depending on which industry is using the pallets and which variables it is trying to maximize or minimize.
Wooden pallets are the most common used pallets in the United States and in the world. It is estimated that 90% of all pallets are made of wood.
So why are 90% of all pallets made from wood? The answer: Wooden pallets are cheap compared to their properties. There are a lot of advantages to wood pallets but also some disadvantages.
Wooden pallets dimensions
There are several dimensions available to wooden pallets. The most common one in the United States is about 48'' x 40'' x 5'' (1016mm x 1219mm x 120mm).
In Europe they usually use 47.24'' x 32.50'' x 5.00'' (800mm x 1200mm x 120mm). That standard is called EUR- or EU pallets.
But as mentioned above: there are several dimensions of wooden pallets several hundreds actually. If you want more information about standards used internationally you should read ISO 6870 that’s defining 6 dimensions.
Recycling wooden pallets
Damaged wooden pallets are often reconditioned using materials from other wooden pallets. Those wooden pallets that can't be repaired are often turned into wood chips that can be used as animal bedding, playground mulch or burned as wooden pellets.
Buying wooden pallets
There are a couple of things to think about when you want to buy woodenpallets. If you only need a couple of pallets you may want to take a look on the "used pallet" market. Read more about that here.
If you want to buy a large amount of wooden pallets or if you want some special dimensions you're probably better of invite tenders from different companies.
If the wooden pallets should be used to transport goods internationally you have to specify that as those pallets has to be treated against invasive species of insects and plant diseases.
Wooden pallets advantages:
* Wooden pallets are cheap compared to plastic and metal pallets.
* Wooden pallets are recyclable and made from renewable resources.
* Wooden pallets have high friction compared to plastic and metal pallets.
* Wooden pallets are very strong and stiff in relation to their cost.
* Wooden pallets can easily be repaired if damaged.
Wooden pallets disadvantages:
* Wooden pallets can contain invasive species of insects and plant diseases and have to be treated in order to be shipped internationally.
* Wooden pallets can get moldy if they are exposed to moisture.
* Wooden pallets can be hard to keep clean.* Wooden pallets can contain splinters
Conclusion
Wooden pallets are very cost effective and are probably a good choice in most cases. You should look at alternatives when you are looking for a specific property like low weight or cleanliness
However, there are also some reasons as to why plastic pallets are better than wooden pallets:
Advantages of using plastic pallets:
1) Can be nested to gain volume units in small shipping space.
2) Extremely tough and durable for reuse many times.
3) Have a much longer service life than wooden pallets.
4) Are exceptionally light (18-20 Lbs).
5) Generates lower shipping cost (1200 per 40 feet container).
6) Ecology friendly as they are made of recyclable material.
7) Creates a safer work environment, no nails or broken pieces.
8) Can withstand severe temperatures (until 20 grades under zero).
9) Resistant to water, acids and other chemicals.
10) Impervious to insects, nematodes and diseases.
11) Under no export /import regulations.
12) Less expensive with the arrival of new technologies.
13) Requires less plastic wrap to stabilize product on pallet.
14) There is a cost for getting rid of wooden pallets once they are damaged.
Pallet styles
Plug Type Pallets. Also referred to as Type 2 or B Grade.This pallet is the same as a 4-way notched stringer pallet; however, the stringers have been broken & repaired w/companion stringers or stringer parts.
Double Face Non- ReversibleUsed for forklift and hand trucks.Chamfered edges allow for easy hand truck entry. A general purpose pallet.
Four Way Notched StringerProvides 4-way entry by forklift trucks and 2-way entry by handtrucks. The most versatile of all pallets.
Double Face ReversibleUsed with forklift trucks only.
Single FaceUsed for shipping or warehousing where stacking is not required. An economical pallet.
Double WingCan be used with slings or fork trucks. A heavy duty cargo pallet.
Single WingUsed with forklift trucks or straddle type equipment.
Some interesting facts about two and four way pallets:
Two-way pallets
· Designed to be lifted by the deckboards. In a warehouse the deckboard side faces the corridor. For optimal cubage in a warehouse, the deckboard dimension should be the shorter. This also helps the deckboards be more rigid.
Four-way pallets
· Four-way pallets or pallets for heavy loads, or general-purpose systems that might have heavy loads are best lifted by their more rigid stringers. A warehouse has the stringer side facing the corridor. For optimal cubage in a warehouse, the stringer dimension should be the shorter.
What is a pallet?
What is a pallet?
· A pallet is a flat transport structure designed to support a variety of goods in a stable fashion while being lifted by any mobile forklift, pallet jack, or other jacking device.
· The goods are placed on top of the pallet, and can be secured to it by straps or stretch-wrapped plastic film.
Pallets, the base of most modern materials handling systems, do more than carry loads. Applied correctly, they can also protect their loads—as well as the supply chains through which they travel.
By Corinne Kator, Associate Editor -- Modern Materials Handling, 5/1/2008
· A pallet is a flat transport structure designed to support a variety of goods in a stable fashion while being lifted by any mobile forklift, pallet jack, or other jacking device.
· The goods are placed on top of the pallet, and can be secured to it by straps or stretch-wrapped plastic film.
Pallets, the base of most modern materials handling systems, do more than carry loads. Applied correctly, they can also protect their loads—as well as the supply chains through which they travel.
By Corinne Kator, Associate Editor -- Modern Materials Handling, 5/1/2008
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