It is often the main objectives of a warehouse to be organized and be able to operate in a timely manner. Management teams often look at different ways to achieve these goals and consequently better service their clientele.

One of these ways that has proven to be effective is the use of flow racks. This system involves stocking products at one end and conveyor wheels are used to move it to the opposite end to be handled for shipment or inventory purposes. If your company is in the minority and not using flow racks as part of your daily operations, below are reasons why you may want to consider these material handling solutions.

1. Convenience

In order for employees to be able to fill orders quickly, the warehouse must be arranged in a manner that is convenient and accessible for them. Flow racks can be organized in a way that works best for employees, increasing the speed they can pick items to fill orders with. In the event that it is decided that the structure of the rack needs to be altered, this can be done quickly and easily to minimize the disruption to business operations.

Flow racks can also be laid out in a way that allows for people and forklifts to easily maneuver around them. Some of these racks utilize the “first in, first out” method, meaning that products are loaded from the back and if an employee takes one from the front, the remaining ones slide forward. This is especially helpful with products with expiry dates as the older ones that get put in first also go out first.

2. Saves space

Warehouses must be organized to guarantee efficiency however with many products being accommodated this can feel difficult if not impossible at times. Flow racks can assist with this as they can be stacked one on top of the other, maximizing vertical space in the warehouse. This allows a company to free up floor space for larger items or products that cannot be safely secured on flow racks.

According to studies, the use of flow racks can save floor space up to 60 percent. This will allow for a warehouse to be well-organized and make enough room to store more inventory and increase the types of products you can offer to customers.

3. Durable

Warehouses store items that can be extremely heavy and it must be assured that racks and shelving that hold items are strong to avoid accidents that could cause disarray and disruptions. Flow racks are durable as demonstrated by the way they can be stacked on one another. They are able to withstand impacts sometimes caused by incidental contact with trucks and forklifts which is instrumental in protecting the products stored on them.

These incidents can often lead to workplace injury but the strength of the flow racks allow companies to avoid such instances that can result in employee shortages and costs for compensation.

4. Inexpensive

Like most companies it is a main objective to save on operating costs while still being able to offer stellar, quality service to customers. Flow racks are appealing because they allow a warehouse to be effectively organized but they will not break the bank in doing so. Because of the durability of the racks, they will last for extended periods of time without any issues.

Companies will also not have to put a lot of time and money into cleaning them either. The wheels on the racks can be cleaned with minimal effort and will allow employees to tend to them and then direct their attention to more important responsibilities.