That question is one that every business owner should be asking themselves. If your employees have to go through the extra struggle to complete basic tasks it is an additional burn.

The basic need for proper storage in your warehouse is racking. A rack can be put together using various different methods whether it's Welding, bolting, or clipping. Many define Racking as the center of the warehouse because that is where new products are stored and older ones are moved.

Just like the larger design of your warehouse, your racking system must be designed for your business. Here is a checklist that can help you with optimizing your racking:

1) Is Racking taking up a lot of space in your warehouse?

One of the most known systems of racking is the Pallet Racking system. It gives your more space vertically to line up your products. The reason why this is so common is because of its efficiency and limited use of space.

2) Does your warehouse use a forklift?

A forklift is a piece of very common equipment used by most businesses. If your racking system is not accessible by your forklift then it defeats the purpose of both of those tools. The Pallet Racking system mentioned above uses vertical space and hence requires a forklift. Therefore it is a good example of a system that will work well for employees that have already familiarised themselves with a forklift. A wide aisle pallet racking system would be one that will make aisles more accessible to forklifts.

3) Is your team equipped with tools to handle the racking system put in place?

While a racking system is put in place to make your business easier and simple, much like any technological tool it requires proper training. A racking system can only be a good investment if it is used properly. For example, a live storage system has proper systems in place to pause and control movements of goods that require proper training.

4) Is your racking system compatible with your business? 

Not all racking systems will work for you. It is simply because every racking system is curated with different products in mind. For example, a drive-in system is created for a product that doesn't have a long shelf life. A pushback pallet space might maximize storage space, however might reduce aisle space and movement. Racking systems should be versatile because business grow and venture into all kinds of production.

5) Are your racking systems safe for your employees?

Any loose part can cause injury and business losses. So make sure your racking systems are placed correctly. Every racking system has a precise load it can take and the manufacturer should guide you on that. That load should be taken seriously, one might think that the rack can take up more, and that might lead to a series of accidents. Many storage experts recommend an inspection every 12 months to ensure 100% safety in the warehouse.

6) What kind of Manufacturer are you working with?

Racking can get very complicated. Often businesses get lost by the number of options available to them. Your manufacturer must have either experience or knowledge, preferably both to recommend the best option for you. An individualized recommendation is something that you should be looking for because racking systems can be modified to suit your warehouse. Your manufactures could be the source of your racking problems and that should not be the case.

7) Are you getting the optimal amount of storage out of your racking system

A drive-thru racking system has fewer aisles and hence can store more goods. This works well for goods with a long storage life and bulk transportation. However, that might not be the optimal use of your space, especially if your goods have a short life and require to be transported quickly. A Push back Rack might be the optimal solution for you in that case.

Running a business in itself a tough job, racking systems should be helping you optimize your supply chain. Racking systems can be costly and hence should be an investment that lasts a long time. Every little change can be a speed bump, finding a solution to your racking problems might help smoothen the flow.