channel shelf

definition

Channel racks are the ideal solution for storing large quantities of a product in a space-saving manner . In the system, also known as tunnel racks, several pallets are always placed one behind the other. This means that in simple channel racks, industrial trucks, such as hand pallet trucks , drive directly into the respective storage unit and build up the inventory pallet by pallet from back to front. This creates an entire channel filled with a specific product.

channel rack structure

Various systems are used for tunnel shelving. The individual channel shelving concepts differ in particular in the following points:

• maximum length of the channel
• maximum number of pallet spaces per channel
• access methods
• access times

drive-in racks

Drive-in racks are the simplest type of channel racks. Here, the individual storage channels are designed so that industrial trucks such as high-lift trucks and forklifts can drive into the tunnel. The goods are usually handled according to the LIFO principle ( Last In - First Out ). The pallets can only be accessed via a single route on one side of the channel. The last pallet stored is automatically removed again.

The compact channel rack offers optimal use of the available storage space, as large storage units are created with only a few work steps . However, the access times are relatively high, as the pallet trucks are always driving in and out of the storage aisle. In addition, it is necessary to remove all pallets stored in front of it in order to reach a specific one.

drive-through racks

With channel racks, it is also possible to design them as drive-through racks. This system is recommended if the goods stored first are to be removed first. Industrial trucks approach this type of channel rack from both sides, which means that each storage block requires access for industrial trucks at the front and back. For the FIFO principle ( First In – First Out ) , the pallets are stored on one side of the channel rack, while the goods are removed from the other side .

slide-in shelves

Push-in racks improve the principle of drive-through racks , because driving into the respective storage unit is unnecessary with this system. Slightly sloping roller rails transport the pallets automatically to the end of the storage channel. Driving into the storage channel is no longer necessary; the pallets are placed at the beginning of the tunnel and removed at the other end. Classic push-in channel racks have space for four pallets each, and individual extensions are possible.

Channel racking with Pallet Shuttle

With this channel rack structure, an automatic pallet shuttle takes the pallet from the pallet truck or forklift at the entrance to the respective storage unit and stores it independently in the rearmost free space . This autonomous warehouse transport system also brings requested pallets to the beginning of the channel, where they can be picked up quickly. Pallet shuttle systems are particularly suitable for very deep pallet rack warehouses . This is because many storage levels can be implemented with this system. Operation is possible according to the LIFO and FIFO principles .

Advantages/Disadvantages & Comparison

Which channel rack structure is ideal depends on the type and quantity of products stored and the level of goods turnover.

channel rack system	Advantages	Disadvantages	possible uses
drive-in rack	simple structure best use of space few work steps required	high access times	LIFO principle
drive-through rack	simple structure to approach from both sides	high access times double the number of operations	FIFO principle
slide-in shelf	Pallets roll automatically into place short access times	double the number of operations investment costs higher	FIFO principle
channel rack with pallet shuttle	automatic pallet transport in the channel short access times also possible for high shelves	high investment costs	FIFO and LIFO principle possible high-bay systems

areas of application

Depending on the channel rack structure, tunnel racks are suitable for different areas of application . The following applies:

• A channel rack with LIFO principle is only suitable for goods that have an almost unlimited shelf life. These include, for example, spare parts, furniture and the like.
• The FIFO principle, on the other hand, is ideal for perishable goods such as food, pet food, medicines or cosmetic products. The oldest stocks are automatically delivered first.
• Drive-in racks are suitable for a moderate inventory of similar products and a low turnover of goods.
• This also applies to drive-through racks.
• For large inventories and high turnover rates, push-in and channel racks with Pallet Shuttle are the economical solution.

See also

• electric high lift truck
• palletizing
• regulations on pallet racks
• intralogistics