How Mobile Racking Works
Mobile Pallet Racking consists of individual runs of racks that are installed onto heavy-duty mobile racking bases with electric motors running on tracks embedded in the warehouse floor. These mobile racking units offer a high-density storage solution by allowing the racks to be condensed to require only one aisle access at a time, which minimises their footprint in the warehouse.
Here is how it works.
- Racks Mounted on mobile bases: Each shelving or racking unit is installed on a motorised base that runs on steel rails embedded into the floor. These bases can carry heavy loads while remaining stable during movement.
- Remote or Manual Operation: Operators can move the racks using remote control units, touch panels or push buttons located on the end of each rack.
- Safety Features: Includes features such as Photoelectric sensors or safety barriers that detect personnel or obstacles in the aisle, manual emergency stop buttons and automatic stop mechanisms.
- Rack Aisle Creation: On demand When an operator selects an aisle, the system automatically moves the racking units apart, creating a temporary access path. Once the task is complete, the racks can be closed again to maintain compact storage.
The Importance of Mobile Racking in Modern Warehousing
In today’s fast-paced logistics and storage environments, maximising space efficiency is more critical than ever. Mobile racking systems are a game-changer for modern warehouses, offering high-density storage without sacrificing accessibility. Unlike traditional static racks, mobile racking moves on guided tracks, allowing operators to open only the aisle they need, dramatically increasing usable storage space by up to 80%.
This system is especially valuable in cold storage, archive facilities, and warehouses where floor space is limited or costly. It also enhances operational efficiency by reducing the time spent locating and retrieving items.
With fewer aisles required, mobile racking systems replace aisles with productive storage spaces, not only cutting costs but also supporting sustainable warehousing through reduced energy use and more efficient building footprints.
Book a free consultation today to find out whether we can transform your existing racking system. Call our experts on 0800 027 1966.
Benefits of Mobile Racking
Mobile shelving and storage system solutions enhance efficiency and significantly improve warehouse capacity and operations. Benefits include:
- Mobile pallet racking systems replace aisles with productive storage spaces.
- Optimal usage of floor space – only one operative aisle.
- Saves up to 40% of the space required by conventional pallet racking and can increase your storage capacity by up to 80%.
- Provide direct access to each pallet, reducing the time and effort required for forklift operations.
- Reduced operating and energy consumption costs thanks to the excellent space utilisation of the system.
- Good occupancy rates help to reduce energy bills in cold stores.
- Modular design adapts to any requirement or any make of racking.
- Comprehensive safety systems to ensure full in-aisle safety when racking runs are in transit.
Additionally, the system’s ability to maintain direct access to unit loads while increasing storage capacity makes it an ideal solution for cold storage, cantilever racking, and other high-density storage applications.
Use Your Current Racking System
The mobile pallet racking bases can be supplied from a number of manufacturers to either help adapt and re-use your current racking assets or to ensure continuity of the brand of rack throughout your warehouse.
These systems can support significant bay loads, making them ideal for heavy-duty storage requirements. Additionally, the long service life and compatibility with adjustable pallet racking make them a versatile choice.
Prioritising Operator Safety
Operator safety is paramount, and the modern development of sensor technology and fail-to-safe systems ensure the full protection of you and your staff when operating any mobile racking system NSI may supply you.
Mobile Shelving ideal for the following industries
Our mobile storage system is particularly effective in:
- Cold stores (to reduce energy costs).
- Warehouses with limited floor space.
- Distribution centres.
- Archive and document storage.
- Facilities handling high SKU volumes.
Mobile racking systems are the perfect solution for companies with limited warehouse space, as they can help maximise storage capacity and reduce storage footprint.
Want to see mobile racking in action?
Get in touch with our experts to arrange a site visit to see how much space you could save with our mobile pallet racking solutions.
For a free initial consultation or advice, call our experts today on 0800 027 1966.
Aerosol and Explosives Cages
NSI can design and install all types of aerosol storage cages to satisfy Insurance Company and Building Control/Fire Officer requirements.
Shuttle Racking System
For clients for whom ultra-high density pallet storage is important, a shuttle racking system can be the answer. The concept is based around the fact that the forklift never enters the racking, individual pallet movements being conducted on intelligent RF guided shuttles that operate on rails millimetres below each pallet.
Pallet Racking Repairs
NSI undertake all types of pallet racking repairs for a number of national companies across their portfolios, as part of a holistic system of rack safety.
Racking Inspections
Racking Inspections are integral for rack safety. They are undertaken by our SARI qualified inspector to maintain H&S standards.
