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Cold storage facilities are on the rise as demand for cold storage solutions increases. If you have a facility that needs to store temperature-sensitive items, it’s important that you consider what the best storage system will be for the most efficient operations. See what systems are out there for cold storage items!

Before we get into the specific cold storage solutions out there, we need to first consider what characteristics make a good system. To start, cold storage solutions with high-density storage are valuable. More energy is used for cold storage facilities than the typical warehouse as they need to maintain a cooler temperature. It’s extremely important for these facilities to maintain their temperatures as inventory can become spoiled if it becomes too warm. With this, high-density storage can help keep energy costs down as it takes less to cool inventory that is packed densely.

Along the same lines, an ideal cold storage facility allows for an efficient picking process. Since these items need to maintain a specific temperature, this process needs to be quick. If the transportation of the inventory takes too long, the items might become unsafe to use. At the same time, a quick picking process is ideal for keeping warehouse workers safe. If the shelving solution allows for a quick process, then warehouse workers are exposed to a chilly climate for a shorter amount of time.

Standard Selective Pallet Racking

Standard Selective pallet racking is a storage solution that makes the picking process more efficient. This pallet racking is designed so that you can access all of the inventory on the racks from the aisle. This makes spotting SKUs easier, making it easier for workers to be able to quickly spot inventory.

With this heavy-duty racking system, workers can speed up the process, allowing them not to endure cold temperatures for as long a time.

Mobile Racking

This heavy-duty racking system is ideal for high-density storage. The racks in this storage system are positioned close to each other, allowing them to act as an energy saver for facilities. With easy access to pallets, this racking has a moving base. When this racking is set up, there is an aisle in between each row, making access to all inventory easier and allowing for a denser storage system.

This racking is also great for efficient picking, making it easier for workers to pick items faster. Similar to the standard selective pallet racking, this is great for minimizing warehouse worker’s time in a cold storage facility.

Pallet Flow Racking

This pallet racking follows a First In, First Out (FIFO) product rotation. Pallets are loaded in the back of the bay, and the bays are angled so that the pallets automatically move down when a pallet is removed from the front. This makes the system efficient for items that are rotated frequently. Often, cold storage needs to be rotated frequently, especially if food with expiration dates is being stored.

These industrial warehouse shelves are also a great option as they can hold 2-20 pallets in a single lane, allowing for high-density storage.

Different types of flow lanes can also be used for pallet flow racking. One type, Magnum Wheel Rollers, is ideal for freezer environments. These rollers are extremely durable and are manufactured from resin to prevent splitting and cracking.

Pushback Racking

Pushback racking is a storage solution that is great for high-density storage. These heavy-duty industrial shelves allow for 90% more storage density than other racks like standard selective racking. With 2 to 6 pallets deep, this racking makes stock rotation easy. Since items are loaded and unloaded at the front of the bay, an aisle in the back isn’t necessary, so this can be up against the wall, letting you have higher-density storage.

These are just a few great solutions for cold storage facilities. Having a solid storage solution can really make the difference with keeping operating costs down, allowing for an efficient picking process, and keeping warehouse workers safe in a cold environment. If you have a cold storage facility build in the process or want to update your current warehouse to better integrate with cold storage inventory, be sure to reach out to Industrial Shelving Systems. We’ll be able to help you from the design process to choosing products, all the way to the installation process.