Pallet Supports vs. Wire Decking
Pallet racking is designed to evenly support pallets on the front and rear beams. While wire decking and pallet supports are typically required for most standard rack systems—unless a tunnel design is used—they enhance safety and support and provide additional storage options, such as for cartons. So, how do you choose between pallet supports and wire decking? We’re here to help you make the best decision.
A Side-by-Side Look at Pallet Supports vs. Wire Decking
Pallet Rack Support
Pallet supports do not offer complete coverage. Typically, two supports are placed beneath each pallet, attaching perpendicular to the beams. Their purpose is to provide some protection if the pallet is misaligned, but they are not designed to support the full weight of the pallet.
Advantages of Pallet Supports
- Allow forklift operators to reposition a misaligned pallet.
- Extend the life of the pallet by distributing its weight more evenly in the rack.
- Prevent large items from falling through the rack.
- Protect inventory from damage.
- Preferred in double-deep racks to avoid potential hang-ups on wire decking.
- Prevent beam twisting in structural rack systems, thus increasing the beam load rating and capacity.
Wire Decking
Wire decking offers a full-surface solution, creating a flat area to support full pallets, hand-stacked cases, totes, and individual items. Various styles and strengths are available based on the application.
Advantages of Wire Decking
- Provides a flat surface for both full and split-case picking.
- Prevents items from falling through the rack onto workers (in overhead rack systems) or other inventory.
- Allows for quicker pallet placement, reducing the need for precise positioning and lowering forklift operator stress.
- Installs quickly and easily, making it user-friendly.
Both products offer additional support for pallets and inventory, protection against falling items, and fire safety by allowing water from in-rack sprinklers to pass through. The choice between them depends on the type of inventory you’re storing and your forklift operators’ comfort with pallet placement.
Wire decking comes in two main types: flared channel deck and step deck. Flared channel deck is commonly used with structural racks or box beams and occasionally with step beams. Step decks are generally preferred for step-beam rack designs.
Pallet supports also come in two design types: flange (similar to the wire deck waterfall style) and flush (set into the step of the pallet rack beam). Structural supports, also known as bolt-in pallet supports or safety angles, are available for structural racks, while roll-formed supports are designed for roll-formed frames.
Considerations to Help You Choose Pallet Supports vs. Wire Decking
Inventory – size and the type of inventory stored will impact your decision. Pallet supports work well for uniform, palletized inventory. Wire decking is versatile. Can accommodate pallet sizes, cases and individual items.
Rack System – When it comes to the rack system, structural and roll formed systems differ in their support styles. Certain designs, like reach racks benefit more from pallet supports compared to wire decking. It’s important to consult with your system designer to ensure that your accessories are suitable for the application.
Installation – Regarding installation depending on the type of support used each support may require tek screws at one or two locations. With two supports per position installing may take effort than with wire decks. It’s crucial to position the supports under the pallets. Snap in supports are quicker to install; therefore if pallet supports are preferred this style could save you time during installation. In comparison wire decks simply need to be placed over the rear beams.
Pricing – In terms of pricing pallet supports are usually more cost effective than wire decking. However any savings, on the cost of materials may be offset by installation expenses.
The cost of adding supports or wire deck to your rack system is relatively low compared to the system cost making it a wise investment. It’s an idea to check with your insurance provider to see if you can save money by using wire deck on your pallet bays.
Once you’ve weighed the advantages and distinctions, between these two products you might want to consider a combination approach. Use wire deck on levels where visibility, for forklift operatorss limited and opt for pallet supports on lower levels where visibility is better. Your choice will ultimately depend on the design and requirements of your application.
FAQ’s
What is the primary function of pallet supports in a racking system?
Pallet supports provide additional support beneath each pallet, helping to protect against misalignment and distribute weight more evenly. They do not offer full coverage but help prevent large items from falling through the rack and protect inventory from damage.
How does wire decking differ from pallet supports?
Wire decking offers a full-surface solution, creating a flat area that supports full pallets, hand-stacked cases, totes, and individual items. In contrast, pallet supports are typically placed under each pallet and do not cover the entire surface, focusing on protection and weight distribution rather than providing a flat storage area.
What are the main advantages of using pallet supports?
Pallet supports allow forklift operators to reposition misaligned pallets, extend the life of pallets by distributing weight evenly, prevent large items from falling through the rack, protect inventory, and prevent beam twisting in structural rack systems.
What are the benefits of wire decking?
Wire decking provides a flat surface for both full and split-case picking, prevents items from falling through the rack, allows for quicker and less precise pallet placement, and installs quickly and easily. It also enhances fire safety by allowing water from sprinklers to pass through.
What factors should I consider when choosing between pallet supports and wire decking?
Consider the size and type of inventory you are storing, the design of your rack system (structural vs. roll-formed), and the ease of installation. Wire decking is versatile and can accommodate various pallet sizes and items, while pallet supports are beneficial for uniform, palletized inventory and specific rack designs.
How does installation differ between pallet supports and wire decking?
Pallet supports may require securing with tek screws in one or two places and need to be positioned under the pallets, which can be more labor-intensive compared to wire decking. Wire decking simply drops into place over the front and rear beams, making installation quicker and easier.
Are there any cost considerations when choosing between pallet supports and wire decking?
Pallet supports are generally less expensive than wire decking, but installation costs may offset these savings. The overall cost of adding either option is a small fraction of the total rack system cost, and it’s worth checking with your insurance provider for potential savings with wire decking.
Can a combination of pallet supports and wire decking be used?
Yes, using a combination of both can be effective. For instance, wire decking can be used in upper levels where forklift visibility is limited, while pallet supports can be used in lower levels where visibility is better. This hybrid approach can optimize the advantages of each option based on your specific needs.
Conclusion
Choosing between pallet supports and wire decking depends on your inventory type, rack system design, and installation preferences. Pallet supports offer targeted protection and are more labor-intensive to install, while wire decking provides versatile, easy-to-install coverage. Evaluating your needs and considering a hybrid approach can help you make the best choice for efficient and safe storage.
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