Do you have trouble managing your warehouse? We can understand that it can be really annoying when you struggle to locate a place to put or move pallets. However, this issue can be resolved simply and reliably with a tear-drop pallet racking. Yes! With the teardrop rack systems, you will save time and make your work more efficient.
Just read on this blog to find out why teardrop racking is the perfect choice if you want to improve efficient organisation in your warehouse. Let’s start!
Figure no 1 Teardrop pallet racking
1) What Is Teardrop Pallet Racking?
Teardrop style pallet racking is one of the most widely used storage systems in warehouses. The name comes from the shape of the tear-shaped holes on the uprights. The holes appear shaped like upside-down teardrops. The Rack’s beams can easily slide and lock into these holes on the uprights, so no tools are needed to set up.
Actually, racking of this type utilises a fundamental frame and beam system. The vertical support frames, or uprights, are positioned upward, and the beams spanning the uprights are placed horizontally across them, and pallets are stored on these beams. The racks are designed to store a variety of heavy goods, while the pallets placed on the racks are easily accessible. The open design aids quick and easy access to each pallet for fast loading or unloading of items.
Figure no 2 Teardrop pallet racking structure
You can easily modify the beam elevation without the need for bolts or additional tools. The specifically designed teardrop holes allow for effortless adjustment to accommodate varying pallet heights. This allows you to optimise the configuration of your setup based on your changing storage requirements.
2) Types of Teardrop Pallet Racks
Different types of teardrop pallet racks exist to fulfil the warehouse requirements. Each type offers unique features depending on the stored products and warehouse space.
Figure no 3 Types of Teardrop pallet racking
i) Roll-formed teardrop racks
Constructed from cold-rolled steel, these racks are easy to handle and cost-effective. The lightweight material makes them easy to install, and the boltless design allows for tool-free assembly. Moreover, the frequently changing storage layouts can easily be accommodated by these racks.
ii) Structural teardrop racks
These racks are constructed from hot-rolled steel, which makes them heavier and thicker than roll-formed racks. Well, structural racks can tolerate heavy loads and frequent forklift traffic. These are ideal for harsh warehouse conditions where strength is paramount.
iii) Single-deep and double-deep options
Single deep racks allow one pallet per level, which makes servicing each pallet effortless. Double deep racks store two pallets deep. Although they save space, access to the second pallet may require specific forklifts.
iv) New vs. used racks.
If you want a tailored setup, long-lasting systems, and ease of use, new teardrop racks are the best option. Used teardrop racks are cheaper and work well for those on a budget. However, check the condition of the racks before using them.
Figure no 4 Old Teardrop pallet racking
Each type has its advantages, and the correct one is based on your warehouse requirements, load dimensions, and finances. It’s simple to find a rack system that meets your needs with these options.
3) Key Features of Teardrop Pallet Racks
Warehouses benefit from using the teardrop racking system since its design is both clever and uncomplicated. Here are its seven distinguishing features:
- No Bolts & Simple Installation: The biggest feature of the teardrop pallet racking is that it’s a boltless configuration. No additional tools or parts are necessary. The beams can slide and lock into place within the teardrop-shaped holes. This greatly reduces both effort and time spent during installation.
- Changeable Beam Height Levels: Maintaining beam height adjustability is very crucial. This allows for items of various sizes to be stored without requiring a new rack. It provides flexibility to reorganise the storage arrangement whenever necessary.
- Strong Steel Construction: These racks are manufactured using good-quality steel. They exhibit high strength and maintain their structural integrity even when loaded with heavy pallets. Such attributes make them safe and reliable for everyday use.
- Different Sizes Offered: Teardrop racks support various heights, widths, and depths. This allows selection of the most suitable size that meets the storage requirements and fits within the warehouse space. Whether large or small, there is a suitable rack for every space available.
- Ranged Weight Limit: These racks can support a hefty weight. You can place stacked bulky pallets with no problems. Just remember to observe each level’s weight limit for safety purposes.
- Easily Expandable: It’s easy to add more teardrop racks, particularly if you require additional space later. The universal design works with most brands, allowing for easy component system expansion without the need to replace older systems.
- Clutter and Accident Free Storage: Teardrop racks help configure your warehouse for easy access and organisation. As the pallet will stay in place, there will be less risk of falls and accidents.
Flexibility, smart, and convenience come with teardrop pallet racking, making it an ideal long-term solution for every warehouse.
4) Benefits of Using Teardrop Pallet Racking
As with every product out there, teardrop pallet racking has sufficient benefits that help the warehouse operate efficiently. It isn’t so much about setting up the pallets for storage as it is about conserving time, space, and energy, which are very essential. Here are the top benefits you’ll enjoy:
Figure no 5 Benefits of Teardrop pallet racking
+ Easy to Set Up: No special tool is required for setting up the racks, which makes installation easy. The beams can simply slide into place and lock quickly. This makes the setup process rapid, enabling immediate use.
+ Minimises Employee Hours: Worker productivity increases when building and relocating the racks due to the simple system providing quick installation and adjustment. Your workers are also able to focus on auxiliary work. There is enhanced productivity overall.
+ Flexibly Adjustable: Modular teardrop racks allow for simple beam relocation to accommodate varying pallet sizes. Additionally, obsolete racks may be replaced without discarding older ones, allowing for evolving storage needs.
+ Dependable and Long-Lasting: Frequent repairs and replacements of these strong steel racks will not be necessary due to the durability of the racks. These shelves are built to carry demanding loads as well as withstand wear and tear for years.
+ Cost-Effective: Teardrop brackets and other parts can be purchased second-hand, which further enhances the affordable nature of the brackets. Many suppliers use the same design, meaning there is no restriction that you have to buy from a single supplier.
The benefits above make teardrop pallet racking the optimal solution in terms of cost, safety, and efficiency for any expanding warehouse.
5) Teardrop vs. Other Types of Pallet Racks
As with any system, it is crucial to evaluate alternatives. Teardrop is one of the most favourite options, but where does it stand beside slotted racks? Let’s analyse this in more detail.
- Teardrop and Slotted Racking
Slotted racks feature rectangular or square cuts into the material and usually use bolts or clips to affix the beams into place. The use of bolts will make the setting complicated. While slotted racks take longer to set up, teardrop racks allow for beam placement to be quicker.
Beams can simply slide into boltless teardrop-shaped holes and lock into place during installation. With no bolts, steam locking is faster and easier when adjustments are needed.
- Operation, Flexibility, And User Friendliness
Teardrop racks are flexible in design, a key feature which stands out when managing difficult spatial constraints and rapidly changing storage needs. For complex adjustments such as changing beam levels or reconfiguring the layout, no special tools are required; only a matter of minutes. Slotted racks, in comparison, will take more time to set up and pose greater difficulty in reconfiguration.
- Improved compatibility with Other Brands
Teardrop racking has another important benefit, its broad interoperability. Means that parts from one brand are often compatible with other parts from different brands because many manufacturers follow the same design standard. There is usually more variation with the slotted racking, which makes it harder to blend components from different manufacturers.
Overall advantages like quicker setup, easier adjustments, and wider brand compatibility help teardrop racking stand out. For most warehouse operations, it is a reasonable and versatile option.
6) Common Applications in Warehouses
A wide variety of warehouses utilise teardrop pallet racking due to its robust construction, flexibility, strength, and easy setup. The system or structure assists regardless of whether you manage a small storage area or a larger facility, helping you stay streamlined and proficient. Here are some common applications:
Figure no 6 Applications of Teardrop pallet racking
- Retail and Distribution
Speedy access to diverse products is a major requirement for retail warehouses. Teardrop racking offers good order and rapid retrieval. In addition to this, the beam level can be adjusted to accommodate items of various sizes, which keeps shelves stocked and orders processed rapidly.
- Cold Storage and Food Industry
Teardrop racks are reliable and ideal for use within cold rooms and freezers. They can endure low temperatures since they are manufactured using strong steel. This makes them ideal for the storage of frozen food, meat, dairy, and other perishables.
- Manufacturing Units
When manufacturing goods, it is common to keep raw materials, tools, and finished products in storage. Teardrop racks are easier to adjust as production progresses because they can hold heavy loads. This makes for a smooth workflow and keeps the area organised.
- Fulfillment and Logistics Centers
In the world of e-commerce and shipping centres, speed is essential. To help with faster picker and packer processes, teardrop racks can store goods in an orderly manner that is easy to reach. Furthermore, their flexibility makes it easy to adjust for seasonal demand.
- Automotive Warehouses
They are also used to store tires and other car parts. They can be adapted to fit odd-shaped or large items, which makes them beneficial for service centres and distributors of auto parts.
- Pharmaceutical and Medical Supply Storage
Teardrop racking is useful to store and organise medicines, pieces of equipment, and other supplies. The adjustable design is helpful since these items often come in different sizes.
With the exception of very small warehouses, teardrop pallet racking works with every industry, including large-scale operations. It allows for the efficient use of space while also ensuring items are stored safely and remain accessible.
7) Installation Tips for Teardrop Racking
As long as you follow basic guidelines and plan ahead, teardrop pallet racking is simple to install. Here are a few important elements to help you get started.
Figure no 7 Installation of Teardrop pallet racking
a) Planning the Layout
Before doing anything else, you must take the measurements of your warehouse space first. Figure out the number of racks you intend to use as well as their locations. Aisle size is also important such that forklifts and people can move through. Well, proper planning aids in space utilisation and saves you from expensive rework later.
b) Tools and Prep Work
Teardrop racks are simple to install, but certain preparatory steps are important. Ensure safety equipment, including hard hats, rubber safety glasses, safety goggles, heavy-duty gloves, and protective vests, is on hand. Section off the build area so no obstacles or trash could impede the construction process to keep things quick and clean.
c) Step-By-Step Install Basics
Begin with the assembly of the upright frame. Position it and slide the horizontal beams into the teardrop holes, and start connecting them. Place the beam of the lock mallet grip to ensure it stays in place. Continue doing this to all the beams until the base and upright racks are level, so none are tilted. Ensure all racks are adjusted to the right pallet size.
d) Safety Precautions
A general precaution is that you must wear safety glasses, gloves, and hard shoes while assembling. All racks must be properly secured to prevent accidents. Refrain from overloading structural components and ensure the space is occupied with only the team needed for work.
8) Buying Tips: What to Look For
Teardrop pallet racking systems have to be chosen wisely and for a good reason. They help ensure proper system functionality and longevity in the warehouse. Below are a few suggestions you need to remember.
! Material and Finishes: Check that the racks are constructed of good-quality steel. If your warehouse is humid or cold, then the finishing should provide supplemental protection from rust and damage. Racks that are powder-coated or galvanised are excellent choices because they prolong the useful life while maintaining a new look.
! Weight Limits and Sizes: Confirm the weight limit per individual beam as well as the overall rack. It should be able to support the weight of the pallets and goods intended for storage. In addition, check the dimensions of the rack space in the warehouse, along with the use of pallets. This is important to avoid hazardous conditions due to insufficient space.
! Pallets and Components of Preexisting Systems: If there are preexisting pallet racks, effort should be made to purchase teardrop racks that correspond to the required proportions, along with the styles. The universal teardrop shape does aid in this, but checking the dimensions should still be done. This provides the formulation of an uncomplicated add-on or replacement of racks without the need to change out the entire system.
! Pick Reliable Suppliers: Purchase from vendors with a reputation for quality and excellent customer service. Trusted vendors provide warranties and support for any questions or help needed. They can also direct you to the right product based on your specifications.
Working with these suppliers will ensure that you receive a tear-drop pallet racking system that is strong, safe, and customised to your warehouse, ultimately saving valuable time, money, and unnecessary complications in the long term.
9) Conclusion
Teardrop pallet racking systems provide strength and flexibility while being easy to set up. They allow for streamlined organisation within your warehouse, which increases safety and saves time and effort. So, investing in these systems ensures long-term reliability and simple upgrades.
To start the upgrading process, carefully plan your space, know the amount of storage you will require, and purchase the racks from reputable suppliers to ensure quality. Yes! Making this decision will enhance your warehouse now and for years to come.
