FAQs

Q How often should my racking be inspected?

A There is no legislation in place that it must be. However, if you are responsible for storing tons of product, several metres in the air, any risk assessment would highlight the necessity of ensuring your racks are safe.

Your own on-going inspections should be a regular occurrence, regularity determined by how busy your warehouse is and the level of skill and diligence demonstrated by your fork truck operators. For a warehouse in constant use, we would recommend an annual independent inspection.

Q What are the industry standards we should be aware of for racking?

A The European Standard is now FEM The Federation Europeenne de la Manutention. Like many things European, simple guidelines have been overcomplicated, but any reputable distributor or manufacturer will ensure your new installation conforms with the appropriate guidelines.

Q How can we store more product in our restricted space?

A The answer is simple – fill your cube with product, not fresh air:

Racking width – does the span between uprights suit the product you are storing. 2000mm wide bays are no good for 1200mm wide boxes.
Racking Depth – 400mm deep shelving wastes 25% of space when storing 300mm deep items.

Shelf pitch – do you actually adjust your adjustable shelving to allow more levels of storage?

Building height – are you using the full height of your building?
Aisles – waste space and should be reduced or eliminated; reduced to the minimum required for efficient picking or eliminated for slower moving items by using mobile racking.

Q How can I use the full height of my building?

A1 Racking – Taller racking but you may have to upgrade your truck.

A2 Shelving – Taller shelving, but you will need access ladders, lifts or Two tier shelving.

A3 General Space – A mezzanine floor.

Any of the above will release or generate more floor space at a fraction of the cost of building an extension – or moving – or operating inefficiently.

Q Why are catalogue prices so high for these products?

A The catalogue price must always cater for the worst case scenario – One off being delivered to a remote location. If the price can cover this – you are paying over the odds for most products. Use the catalogue as a product selector and then ask your supplier to find you the best price for that product. I many cases you will save 10-25% on the catalogue price., often more for larger requirements.

Total Storage Systems can help you store anything. If you’re not sure whether we can provide what you need, or don’t know what sort of system might be right for you, get in touch with us and talk through your requirements. We’ll be able to answer all your questions. And remember, all advice, recommendations and quotes are completely free with no obligation whatsoever!

With over 30 years in the business Total Storage Systems are the UK’s first choice for mobile shelving systems. From an initial phone call, to a no-obligation site visit, to a quote, to full installation to future maintenance, Total will be there every step of the way.