Use, Components, Advantages of Push Back Racking

Push Back Racking is a highly efficient space optimisation storage solution that uses a high density, low selectivity system to create a fast working last in, first out (LIFO) option. It only requires one aisle to be available for loading and unloading, thus is an ideal system for storing medium-turnover homogenous goods. Push Back Racking maximises warehouse capacity and reduces need for transport routes, thus saving time and space and increasing efficiency. It is an ideal storage solution for anyone looking to ensure that their storage space is optimised and operating efficiency is maximised.

When is Push Back Racking most useful?

Pallets can be stored from 2 to 6 pallets deep on both sides of the aisle, providing a higher density storage option than other pallet rack systems. It is possible to gain between 25 and 55% more storage space without needing to move warehouses or increase physical space, simply by switching to push back racking.

The need to have only one access aisle limits forklift traffic and increases productivity and speed. As the front pallet is removed, the next pallet rolls forward and eliminates the step of bringing the next ones forward. It also allows for direct access to pallets and increases operational efficiency when working in a LIFO application.

Another large advantage to using a push back racking system is its ability to deliver the highest values of both storage density and selectivity. Due to the nature of the racking, needing only one access aisle, you are able to store pallets on both sides of an aisle without compromising the accessibility of pallets.

Components of Push Back Racking:

A push back system is one of the more complex racking systems, due to the fast shifting of pallets and its many moving parts. A push back system consists of; base frame, horizontal beams, rails, and either trolleys, carts, shuttles, or roller beds, as well as pallet guides, profiles and backstops.

The base frame and horizontal beams are standard base components of any pallet racking system which support and anchor the pallet racking system.

Inclined rails make up an integral component of the push back racking system, allowing the pallets to travel along rollers or other down the rack and shift into the correct positions.

Trolleys, carts, shuttles, and roller beds are all moving components of the racking system and are loaded with pallets which then shift along the rails. There are small variations in the style of each, with carts designed to be interlinked and prevent material handling mishaps or jams. In a roller system, roller beds keep the pallets in motion along the rails.

Pallet guides or pallet grips ensure that pallets are on the right track when loaded, preventing material damage.

Profiles are safety-enhancing components that provide additional support to the structure and are attached to beams at each level.

Pallet backstops serve as stoppers for pallets ready for removal, and safeguard them from damage.

There are two kinds of push back racking systems; push back roller systems, or push back shuttle systems.

Roller systems consist of a roller bed secured to the frame and placed on top of the inclined rail to enable movement of pallet loads and enable fast loading and unloading. This requires forklift operators to push pallets back for positioning during loading and unloading.

Shuttle systems are more advanced, complicated systems. Shuttles are positioned on the rails to hold and transport pallets, travelling with them. The sliding shuttles manage the movement of pallet loads, minimising operator intervention.

Push back racking can be an efficient, versatile, and cost effective solution to increasing your warehouse storage capacity.

Here at DC Space & Storage Solutions, we understand the importance of finding the right pallet racking for your company, and are always on hand to help find the best and most affordable outcome for you.