Your Guide to Vertical Pallet Movement

Fork Truck In Pallet Rack Aisle

When U.S. cities became too populated, what did developers do? They built up! This concept isn’t just for urban planners, however. One of the best ways to maximize storage space – and free up floor space – in your warehouse is to build vertically. But when you implement vertical storage solutions, you have to consider how pallets are lifted. Ideally, material lifts should be performed safely and efficiently.

Below, we’ll discuss the value of vertical storage and how to perform vertical lifts in the safest and most efficient way possible. Here’s a closer look:

Why Implement a Vertical Storage System?

We already mentioned how implementing a vertical storage setup is key to maximizing space within your warehouse. It’s also a less expensive means of storage if you have the right systems in place to quickly retrieve any elevated items.

Everyone has heard the adage that “time is money.” Vertical storage is proof of this, as the faster you’re able to carry out tasks and retrieve materials in the warehouse, the faster you’re able to prepare orders and move products to market. However, as we noted, in order to implement an efficient vertical storage system, you need the right equipment to facilitate it.

Equipment Options for Vertical Lifting and Lowering Pallets

Ready to take advantage of your vertical space? Here’s a look at some of the equipment you may want to consider integrating into your warehouse to support a robust storage system:

Vertical Conveyors

Vertical conveyors and vertical reciprocating conveyors (VRCs) are fast, efficient, and safe. They permit users to lift pallets to and from various levels quickly. Plus, they come in a variety of styles to allow warehouse operators to find one that meets their requirements.

Think of VRCs as mobilized elevators that are intended to transport pallets and other heavy materials. All you need to do is load the pallet or materials onto the platform, close the gate, and send it to the appropriate level. VRCs come in all different sizes, have a vast vertical range, and can be assembled and disassembled fairly easily. They are typically available in hydraulic and mechanical models.

Rider material lifts are another excellent option, as they allow operators to ride along with the pallets that they’re moving to other floor levels.

Forklifts

Even with a conveyor that makes vertical storage safe and efficient, you’re still likely to need equipment to move the pallet onto the machine. Forklifts are an excellent investment, as they’re relatively easy to operate and offer capabilities, allowing you to stack items on your conveyor accordingly.

If you don’t think a forklift is a good fit for your facility, a hand pallet jack is a great alternative.

Scissor Lifts

Though less common in vertical storage setups, scissor lifts provide a solution for quickly elevating materials. Again, forklifts can help load your scissor lift, so it makes sense to include the aforementioned equipment to some extent in your facility.

Make the Most of Your Space with A-Lined Handling Systems

Interested in implementing a vertical storage system in your warehouse? A-Lined Handling Systems is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about effective vertical warehouse design and equipment that can bring it to life!