Pallet Tunnel Advantages: Streamlining Warehouse Efficiency
Anyone involved in warehouse and logistics operations knows that uneven stacks of pallets can cause problems. They can impede automated operations where even consistent stacks are required. The uneven stacks can be difficult to move with a forklift and challenging to integrate into logistics systems or pallet dispensers.
Whether the uneven pallet stacks are the result of transportation, inconsistent stacking practices or some other cause, this situation can take up valuable floor space (and worker time) that could be better used elsewhere.
For any warehouse/materials handling facility interested in greater efficiency and greater worker safety, it makes sense to investigate the benefits of the pallet tunnel.
A pallet tunnel, also known as a pallet straightener, is a device that helps keep pallets organized. It squares up the pallets with the help of a forklift truck. Pallet tunnels align pallets side-to-side and front-to-back and are suitable for indoor or outdoor use. They can also help with loading and storing pallets.
The rugged pallet tunnel is built to withstand the force exerted by a forklift. The wedge includes a flared opening with sides that narrow to align the pallets within 1.5” from side to side. And when the forklift pushes a stack of pallets into the tunnel, it compresses against the back support beam. As a result, the stack is straightened both from front to back and from side to side within the tunnel.
The modular design with a 72” tall base is easy to ship and relocate, straightening stacks of 12-14 pallets. Add either a 24” or 36” bolt-on extension to handle even taller stacks up to 9 feet high. The units bolt to the floor and do not require electricity to operate.
Pallet tunnels have numerous advantages and benefits in warehouse and logistics operations. They include:
- Optimization of storage space: Space is often at a premium in the warehouse. Pallet tunnels can help. They can create a picking aisle at floor level, allowing for streamlined picking processes and better space utilization. Pallet tunnels can also provide compacted storage of pallets at upper levels. Properly aligned stacks reduce wasted space and allow for more efficient loading onto trucks heading back to the pallet pooling centers or automated dispensers on the packaging line.
- Streamlining of order picking processes: The use of a pallet tunnel can help streamline the processes throughout the warehouse, with separate load and pick aisles for safe, concurrent operations. Forklift operators need only travel within the aisles where the pallets are stored. Overall, these processes will lead to increased productivity and a speeding up of order fulfillment.
- Stacking made simpler: Tunnels allow warehouse operators to create and maintain straight stacks of pallets without using structural columns or warehouse walls, which is much safer and helpful in an automated warehouse operation.
- Safety: By preventing uneven stacks, pallet tunnels, or straighteners, reduce the risk of accidents and operating troubles. Tidier and more organized warehouses are less susceptible to worker accidents.
- Versatility: Pallet tunnels can accommodate various types of pallets, including aluminum, wood, and plastic.
- Assistance with loading and storage: A pallet tunnel straightens stacks of pallets quickly and efficiently, far more quickly than manual straightening, reducing the likelihood of worker injury.
- Better inventory control: Organized pallet stacks make it easier to track inventory and streamline reserve stock storage space. It also provides better control for LIFO (Last in, First out) and FIFO (First in, First Out) stock.
- Greater worker efficiency: This process can minimize travel time on the floor for workers and forklift operations.
Pallet tunnels contribute to efficient storage, streamlined picking, and safer handling of palletized goods. If you’re looking for ways to improve the efficiency and safety of your operation, this is a worthwhile upgrade and easy to purchase from our In-Stock Inventory.
As you approach any upgrade, including the implementation of pallet tunnels, we’re happy to have a conversation on taking those next steps including customizations. If you have questions and would like to discuss this in more detail, please contact Cherry’s Industrial Sales Department at 847-565-2229 or email sales@cherrysind.com. We’re here to help!