The difference between U, L and I shaped pallet racking layouts

The way you layout out your pallet racking can make a huge difference to the effective movement of goods, and make the best use of space.

In all three warehouse design flows, the goal is to optimise the flow of goods and minimise the distance that goods travel between the point of entry and the point of dispatch. The specific layout will depend on the size and type of the warehouse, the type of goods being stored, and the amount of space available.

U-Shaped – The High Volume Option

The U-shaped warehouse design flow refers to a layout in which goods enter at one end of the warehouse and flow through the entire space in a U-shaped pattern before being loaded onto trucks or dispatched. This design allows for easy access to all goods, making it a popular choice for warehouses with a high volume of stock.

L-Shaped – The High Density Option

The L-shaped warehouse design flow is similar to the U-shaped flow, but with a longer leg of the “L” devoted to storage. The goods flow through the short leg of the “L” and are then stored in the long leg, which is usually designed for high-density storage.

I-Shaped – The Low Volume Option

The I-shaped warehouse design flow refers to a layout in which goods enter at one end of the warehouse and flow through the space in a straight line to the other end. This design is usually used for warehouses with a lower volume of stock and is often combined with other storage solutions, such as shelving or pallet racking.

In each case, the primary goal is to minimise the distance that goods travel and ensure that all goods are easily accessible, making it easier to manage and dispatch them efficiently.

Can we support you in designing and installing a warehouse flow that works for your business now, and into the future? Call us today on 01604 792255, or use our contact form and we’ll be in touch.