Pallet racks are an integral part of any warehouse or retail business. Pallet racking is a material storage system designed to store products on pallets. There are several types of racking systems but all follow the same basic premise. Racking systems allow the storing of material in a safe and efficient manner. The system allows greater storage density because the pallets are stored horizontally using multiple levels. Forklift trucks are also an essential component of pallet racking systems.
Selective Pallet Racks
Selective pallet racks are the most common type used in warehousing and retail. Selective racking is usually a standalone system. The racks consist of upright columns with crossbeams attached. The racks consist of four columns or more with crossbeams that are attached by slipping into slots on the columns. There will be shorter beams that attach to the sides for greater stability. This method allows for quick adjustment of the crossbeams to accommodate different height pallets. Selective pallet racking does not have the load or weight capacity of other type systems. Because of the quick adjustment and mobility, this racking system is perfect for retail and wholesale operations.
The upright columns on most selective racking systems will have a series of slots for the crossbeams. The crossbeams have a flange at each end that slips into the column slots. The slots have a wider opening on top and then taper to snug the flange in place. For added stability, clips can be added that will fasten the crossbeams to the columns.
Pallet Racks Assembly
Pallet racks can be assembled in rows allowing access from both sides. In a warehouse setting racks are designed for access by product pickers. The racks must also be 
accessible to replenish the product without interfering with the case pickers. In retail settings, racks must be designed so customers can select items in a safe manner. For the most part in retail, the upper tiers of the racking system will be used for overstock. Because of space restraints, the racks may be replenished from the front. For added safety, the selective rack system can be attached to a wall or floor.
For retail or wholesale businesses, the pallet racks can be used to separate aisles. Each rack facing an aisle can have a different product displayed on pallets. The system allows double storage of pallets. Because of the depth of some rack systems, pallets can tip between the crossbeams as they are loaded. To prevent accidents, heavy gauge wire mesh can be added to the system. Selective racking is ideal for example in an automobile parts store. The employees have immediate access from every side to look for parts. The upper tiers can be loaded with a small forklift. The lower tiers can be replenished from the upper tiers.
Structural racking systems are integrated into the building structure. The rack’s columns are also used as roof support beams. The support beams are floor to ceiling and are part of the building’s support system. The advantages of this racking system are greater storage capacity and load bearing capacity. The crossbeams are bolted to the upright columns to increase the load capacity. The system is permanent in nature. The crossbeams can be adjusted for different heights but must be unbolted. The structural racking system can be used with mechanical picking arms or overhead rail systems.
Racking systems can be customized for restocking of material or product. Certain products for example are produced and temporarily stored prior to being loaded for transport. Pallet rack systems can be set up so when a pallet is pulled another pallet slides into place. The system utilizes a loading lane dedicated to the racks on either side. The newest product is loaded in behind the oldest product to insure proper rotation. Fresh product is loaded in last and the oldest product is used first. The concept is very similar to how a dairy cooler is restocked. The racking system utilizes gravity. The newest product will slip into place as the oldest is pulled. Pallets that need to be pulled and transported are removed and the next in line slides into place using gravity. This system is mainly used in food production where the finished product is dated and stored on pallet racks prior to being transported.