What is a storage rack?
Definition: A storage rack is a central element of static storage technology and serves the systematic, space-saving, and access-optimized storage of goods within warehouse and logistics systems. It is a modular construction made up of shelves, beams, and frames, designed according to specific storage requirements regarding weight, volume, access frequency, and the nature of the stored goods.
The design of storage racks depends on logistical conditions and the underlying storage concept. Generally, the following types are distinguished:
- Shelving racks for manual picking of small parts,
- Pallet racks for storing and retrieving palletized goods using forklifts,
- Flow racks with gravity-fed replenishment for first-in-first-out (FIFO) processes,
- Cantilever racks for storing long or bulky materials.
In automated warehouse environments, rack elements are often combined with stacker cranes (RBG), shuttle systems, or other automated conveyors, and integrated into high-bay warehouses or automated small parts warehouses (AKL). Control is managed by material flow controllers (MFR) and is directly linked to the overarching ERP and warehouse management systems (WMS).
Accurate recording and management of storage locations within a storage rack is a key requirement for modern logistics software. In SAP EWM, storage racks are represented by storage location structures based on storage types, storage areas, and storage bins, enabling transparent and controllable inventory management.
