When it comes to optimising warehouse space, racking systems play a crucial role in maximising storage efficiency, improving inventory management, and supporting operational safety. Choosing the right type of warehouse racking depends on your products, handling equipment, and space constraints.
In this guide, we’ll explore the main types of warehouse racking systems, their benefits, and the best applications for each, helping you make informed decisions for a more efficient warehouse layout.
Pallet racking is the most common and versatile warehouse racking system. It allows direct access to every pallet in storage, making it ideal for facilities with a wide range of stock keeping units.
Advantages:
Best for:
Warehouses with varied inventory and frequent stock rotation.
Designed for high-density storage, drive-in and drive-through racking systems allow forklifts to enter the rack structure to place or retrieve pallets.
Advantages:
Best for:
Cold storage, bulk goods, and seasonal inventory with low stock keeping units variety.
Push-back racking allows multiple pallets to be stored deep on inclined rails. When a pallet is removed, the next one automatically rolls forward for easy retrieval.
Advantages:
Best for:
Operations with medium turnover rates and multiple pallets per stock keeping units.
Pallet flow racking uses gravity-fed roller tracks that move pallets from the loading end to the picking end automatically.
Advantages:
Best for:
Perishable goods, food distribution, and high-turnover inventory.
Cantilever racking is designed for storing long, bulky, or irregularly shaped items, such as timber, pipes, and metal bars. Instead of pallets, items rest on horizontal arms extending from vertical columns.
Advantages:
Best for:
Construction materials, furniture, or manufacturing components.
Mobile racking systems are mounted on motorised bases that move along floor tracks, creating aisles only when needed. This eliminates fixed aisle space and maximises capacity.
Advantages:
Best for:
Cold storage, archives, and high-value inventory with low access frequency.
Mezzanine racking adds an elevated storage platform within a warehouse, using existing vertical space for storage or additional workspace.
Advantages:
Best for:
E-commerce, retail, or manufacturing warehouses looking to expand capacity without moving premises.
When selecting a warehouse racking solution, consider:
Understanding the different types of warehouse racking systems helps businesses make smarter investments in their storage infrastructure. Whether you prioritise accessibility, density, or automation, there’s a racking system to match every warehouse need.
Optimising your racking not only improves space utilisation but also enhances productivity, safety, and ROI — key advantages in a competitive logistics environment.
If you're interested in discussing the racking setup for your business, get in touch via the Greenline on 0845 3713048 or complete our contact form.