Both industrial shelving and racking are fundamental for organising products in warehouses, distribution centres, production facilities, workshops, and similar spaces. This guide will help you understand their uses and benefits.
What is Industrial Shelving and Racking?
Industrial shelving and racking are specialised storage solutions designed to hold a wide range of items, from small parts to heavy, bulky goods. Unlike traditional shelving, usually made from wood or lightweight metal, industrial shelving is constructed from steel or other durable materials, featuring reinforced shelves and customisable options to suit various business needs.
Key Features of Industrial Shelving:
- Made from steel or other durable materials
- Reinforced and adjustable shelves
- Suitable for hand-loaded products
- Customisable to specific business needs
Key Features of Industrial Racking:
- Designed for heavy items
- Often used with mezzanines and other storage solutions
- Requires forklifts for loading
- Customisable to specific business needs
Differences Between Industrial Shelving and Racking
Industrial shelving is ideal for lighter items, such as boxes of paper or small hardware, while racking is designed for heavier items like pallets of supplies or large machinery. Shelving is generally less expensive but cannot support as much weight as racking, which is more durable but often more costly.
Choosing the Right Storage Solution
To determine whether industrial shelving or racking is right for you, assess your storage needs:
- What type of products are you storing?
- How much space do you have available?
- How many products need storage?
- Will you need more space as your business grows?
For heavy or bulky items, opt for a strong and durable racking system. For limited space, consider a compact shelving system. Evaluate different products based on your needs to choose the best solution.
Benefits of Industrial Shelving and Racking
Increased Visibility: Shelving allows easier visibility and access to products, making inventory management simpler and reducing the risk of back injuries from bending or stooping.
Improved Organisation: Shelving provides a neat and tidy storage method, making it easier to find items quickly, thereby saving time and boosting efficiency.
Enhanced Safety: Industrial racking is sturdy and stable, preventing items from falling and causing injuries. Racking also allows safe storage of items at greater heights, accessible by forklifts.
Maximised Space: Storing products on shelves frees up floor space for walkways, equipment, and machinery, improving safety and maneuverability.
Cost-Effective: Industrial shelving is a cost-effective solution that helps businesses save money by preventing losses from damaged goods and protecting products from environmental hazards.
Selecting the Right Type of Shelving or Racking
When choosing industrial shelving or racking, consider:
- The type and weight of products to be stored
- Available space
- Number of products to be stored
- Future storage needs as your business grows
For heavy objects, choose a shelf or rack that supports the weight. For larger items, select options with more surface area. Place shelving or racking in areas where durability is key, especially in high-traffic zones.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Storage Solution
For safe and efficient storage, industrial shelving and racking are excellent choices. At Bowen Storage, we offer a wide range of shelves and racks to meet your specific needs. Our products are sturdy, stable, and available in various sizes to accommodate different items. Whether you need shelving for hand-loaded products or racking for heavy items, we have the perfect solution for you. Explore our selection today to optimise your storage and organisation.
