Converting Pallet Rack for Single Items — Bin Storage vs. Wire Decking
How Does Bin Storage Compare with Wire Decked Pallet Rack?
Standard selective pallet racking is the universal go-to for pallet storage. The pallet rack effectively uses vertical space while providing secure and easy access to palletized stock. Wire decking is often added to create a platform that shores up poor-condition pallets, adds stability to the system, and helps prevent loose items from falling (particularly important on high levels). But wire decking does one more valuable thing; it enables single-item storage. However, if your items are small –think nuts & bolts for manufacturing, electronic components, or medical supplies… then wire decking will only get you so far. Bin storage is the cost-effective answer for small parts and inventory that is piece picked.
5 Benefits of Pallet Rack Bin Storage
- Keep small items organized by SKU/item number
- Minimize miss picks
- Maximize pallet rack shelf space
- Quicker item selection
- Better inventory tracking
With a wide variety of bin storage options, you can right-size your containers to maximize the storage rack space and even color-coordinate your inventory if desired.
Variety is the Spice of Life
When shopping for your storage bins, consider warehouse conditions or product specifics requiring a particular container material. Storage bins are manufactured most commonly from plastic, but you can find fiberglass, metal, or cardboard designs if that is a better fit for your product needs.
The size of your items will also dictate your storage bin choice. Bin depth typically ranges from 12” to 24” and up to 42”, the full depth of a standard pallet rack bay.
The bins nest closely together and stack to ensure the pallet rack space is efficiently utilized, and you can choose a front lip that allows an easy reach-in to select items, handles or side grips for easy pull-out, and lids to protect items from dust, etc. Additionally, most bins allow ample label space to mark each container vs. labeling the pallet rack shelf.
Whatever your intended use, you can find bins to help create an orderly and efficient storage solution.
A Unique Option for Pallet Rack Bin Storage
While most bin storage conjures up the idea of colorful, hard plastic bins… there is another option to consider that also optimizes pallet rack space and creates a high-density solution for a variety of small, piece-picked items.
Hanging vertical storage bins are ideal for single items usually picked for order processing vs. manufacturing parts or assembly applications.
These units hang on tracks underneath your pallet rack system’s first level or two. The material is very durable and flame resistant, with ample load capacity. Typically you can have two or three rows deep and multiple across, and order pickers have access to each SKU bay with a simple slide from side to side of the storage unit.
The good news is that you have options! And, more than that, you have cost-effective and productivity-enhancing options –those are the types of products we can all get behind.
The Apex team will work with you to create the solution that most effectively meets your needs and within your established budget. Our team will consider your inventory mix, warehouse space, labor challenges, and productivity goals in developing your storage rack/warehouse design. Call Apex today for expert full-service support.
Related Materials
If you are storing a large number of single-item SKUs for order fulfillment, check out our slotting blog for tips to optimize your rack space and minimize your labor travel time to improve pick rates and accuracy.
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