When comparing pallet racking suppliers,it is easy to focus on the final quotation.But two pallet racking quotations can look similar on paper while being based on very different specifications.A lower price does not always mean a lower total cost for the warehouse.Here are several points worth checking before choosing a supplier.
The Number of Pallet Positions Is Not Enough
A quotation may show the total number of pallet positions,but this does not tell you how efficiently the warehouse will operate.
A layout with more positions may require longer forklift travel,wider aisles or more difficult access to certain pallets.
For warehouses with many SKUs,direct access can be more valuable than simply increasing the number of storage positions.
Check What the Quotation Is Actually Based On
A pallet racking quotation should be based on actual project information.
At minimum,the supplier should know:
Pallet dimensions
Maximum pallet weight
Required storage levels
Warehouse clear height
Forklift type
Required pallet positions
Rack layout
If these details have not been confirmed,two suppliers may be quoting completely different systems even though both call them“pallet racking.”
A Cheaper Rack May Not Fit Your Operation
For example,selective pallet racking is often suitable when individual pallet access is important.
But if a warehouse stores a small number of SKUs in large quantities,a denser system such as double deep,drive-in or pallet shuttle racking may make better use of the available space.
The cheapest rack is therefore not necessarily the cheapest solution.
The more useful question is:
How much does each usable pallet position cost to install and operate?
Look Beyond the Rack Components
When comparing suppliers,also check what is included in the quotation.
Depending on the project,the scope may involve rack components,decking,protection,anchors,installation,layout design and other accessories.
A quotation that excludes important items may appear cheaper at first and become more expensive later.
Give the Manufacturer Better Information
A supplier can usually provide a more meaningful solution when the customer provides basic warehouse information instead of only asking:
“How much is pallet racking?”
Send the warehouse dimensions,pallet size,maximum load,forklift type and required storage capacity first.
The supplier can then determine the appropriate configuration and prepare a quotation based on the actual project.
Need a Pallet Racking Quotation?
HLD Shelves provides customized pallet racking solutions for warehouses and industrial storage projects.
Send us your warehouse dimensions,pallet specifications and storage requirements to discuss a suitable pallet racking system.
