Pallet racking is the structural system of uprights and beams used to store palletised goods in vertical levels, with configuration choices determining storage density, product accessibility and stock rotation capability in food warehouses.
In trade practice
In cold stores handling frozen fruit, vegetables or other food commodities, racking must be specified for low-temperature operation, as standard steel components can become brittle below certain temperatures. The racking layout must allow forklift access to every location without blocking emergency exits, and aisle widths are determined by the type of forklift in use. First-in, first-out rotation is enforced by directing put-away and picking to specific locations within the racking system. Racking must be inspected regularly for damage, as a bent upright in a cold store can go unnoticed until it causes a collapse.
In a specification
Warehouse design specifications and third-party logistics contracts may reference the racking system’s rated load capacity per beam level and require compliance with applicable structural safety standards, with inspection records available on request.