Warehouse management requires having the right warehouse racking, which can help you sort everything in an organized way. However, as much as it is important to choose the right warehouse racks, the significance of looking for a cheap warehouse racking system cannot be undermined.
Every business has a budget and similarly, when it comes to a warehouse you need to allocate the budget efficiently to every activity taking place. So, if you are looking to learn about the different ways you can source cheap warehouse racking, the guide below can help you.
1. Source Racking Directly from Manufacturers in China
China is the hub of manufacturing, ranging from the smallest product to high-density storage racks everything can be sourced from here. The Chinese manufacturers offer customization based on your warehouse layout, and the size you need. You can even have the features of these racking systems customized according to your preference.
The best thing is that you can even get bulk discounts when sourcing the warehouse racks in a high volume. They offer cheap racking systems with innovative features that add convenience to the warehouse.
Apart from sourcing the warehouse racks from manufacturers, Chinese platforms like Alibaba are also suitable. The trade shows and access to global suppliers also help sourcing warehouse racks efficiently.
Trade shows also give you an opportunity to personally meet the supplier and discuss your requirements. In the trade shows you can also analyze the nature of the products they have from their displays.
However, whether you choose global platforms, trade shows, or Chinese manufacturers, verification of their quality is crucial. It is important to check the certifications suppliers hold and the quality control applicable. Despite being cheap industrial racking, it should not compromise the quality.
2. Consider Used or Second-Hand Racking
When looking for cheap industrial racking, opting for used and second-hand racking is also a suitable approach. The new racking systems are highly expensive whereas the used ones may offer the same efficiency at a very low price. There are multiple benefits of having the used racking systems and some of these benefits are as follows:
- You can save a lot on used systems of storage, they cost around 50 to 70 percent less than the new ones.
- Second-hand racks are even available for immediate use, you need not wait for manufacturing or customization, just take and use.
- Used racking systems support recyclability and are an eco-friendly option.
The used racking systems can be sourced from various online platforms or even some racking dealers offer second-hand warehouse racks. You can also consider getting in touch with a local warehouse nearby that may be relocating, they might want to leave behind their racks which you can take.
Secondhand racking systems should be assessed properly before buying. Make sure to check there are no signs of rust or corrosion, and that the warehouse rack is in good shape. It should be equipped with matching parts and no damage or lost parts should be there. Ensure that the chosen racking systems can withstand the loads that you expect.
3. Buy in Bulk to Save Costs
Bulk always helps in saving on cost. Bulk purchases divide the fixed costs on multiple racks and this way businesses can achieve economies of scale by offering lower prices. Moreover, the cost of shipping is also reduced as it is divided between the overall racks.
If you do not need such a high volume for your warehouse, you can connect with the other warehouses to have the racks sourced together. It helps to shape the shipping costs and the high volume of racking systems even helps in savings.
You can also negotiate the costs with your suppliers, ask them to give you bulk discounts, or offer some packages that reduce the cost of racks.
4. Explore Clearance Sales and Discounts
Many racking retailers announce their year-end sales and stock clearance sales. Waiting for such sales can also help to source cheap racking systems. You can stay up to date with the newsletters that give you an update about the deals and discounts. Many businesses take your numbers or email addresses where they shape timely updates with you.
So, exploring these discounts and sales by subscribing to notifications is always a great idea. You can also keep on visiting the stores and ask for discounts directly from the retailers. Repeat customers are in a position to source racks at cheaper prices.
5. Opt for Modular and Adjustable Racking Systems
Modular racking systems are highly suitable if you want a balance of cost and functionality. The modular racking systems come with varied advantages and some of these are as follows:
- These racks are flexible, they offer you a basic layout that can be increased in the future as needed and can adapt to the changing business requirements.
- They are easy to repair and maintain and hence help save the cost of repairs.
- These racks are highly scalable and when needed can have the beams added to increase the capacity and space.
There could be many options when it comes to modular racking systems like cantilever racking systems, pallet racking systems, mezzanine racking, selective pallet racking, and much more.
6. Work with Local Suppliers
Sourcing racking systems from local suppliers is always the best approach. Purchasing locally helps to save money you spend on logistics and the local suppliers are even well aware of local business needs.
There are various advantages that you can enjoy when sourcing the racking systems locally, some of these are:
- It helps to cut down the shipping costs which is a major saving as when you source from overseas suppliers a lot of money is spent on shipping costs.
- Local suppliers can meet your timelines, they can deliver you the racks as quickly as possible and you can immediately start organizing the warehouse.
- You have a close connection with the supplier because improved communication helps to build a relationship of trust.
Working with local suppliers gives you an opportunity to negotiate prices in a better way. You can have the rates compared to the other suppliers in your area and hence make the most of savings.
7. Repair and Repurpose Existing Racks
Investing in new racks is expensive, whereas repurposing and repairing the existing racks can be cost-effective. Basic repairs can increase the lifespan of the existing racking systems. The timely maintenance of the racks like the replacement of the damaged beams and fixing the loose bolts can make the structure of the racks strong.
The existing racks should be inspected for issues like frames that are bent or rusted and must be replaced. It helps to save money on the extensive repairs and replacements.
The existing racks can be repurposed, in a way that changes the warehouse requirements. Some of the changes existing racks may have:
- You can convert the pallet racks into shelves which helps to have space for small-sized items that can be stored easily. You just have to remove some beams and add the shelves.
- By adding vertical extensions to the racks that already exist, you can create an overhead space without having new systems.
- The parts of your racks can be rearranged and different zones for different types of stock can be created.
The major repairs and structural modifications are recommended to be conducted with the help of professionals so that the modifications meet safety standards.
8. Choose DIY Racking Solutions
DIY racking systems offer an affordable way to meet the storage needs of a warehouse. Materials like steel and wood can be used to make the frames and then customized racks can be created which helps to adjust the inventory. The DIY racks are suitable for small-scale warehouses.
The local hardware stores could be a suitable choice for sourcing the material for the racking systems. These options are budget-friendly, when creating the DIY racks, safety is a crucial concern and you should ensure that the design you have created is capable of holding the weight.
9. Lease or Rent Racking Systems
Warehouse racking can be rented and elapsed which proves to be a suitable option for storage requirements when the inventory is fluctuating. You can scale the storage capacity whenever you need without any hefty investment. It is suitable for temperature warehouses or for seasonal inventory management.
You can search for local rental services and suppliers for the warehouse racks and even compare the rates and terms to find the best option. You can consider the flexibility offered in the duration of rent and even inquire about the discounts in the longer run. When you rent the racking systems you get hands-on high quality storage without any financial burden.
10. Sourcing Racking Systems from Auctions
Sourcing racking from auctions can be a great idea to save money. The warehouse auctions the compromise of these racking systems at a low cost as businesses that are downsizing or liquidating sell the racks. These rocks are most well-maintained and can be sourced at a low price.
In order to find the auctions you can keep a check on the websites of industries and auction platforms to locate the right deal near you. Conduct the research before bidding and also inspect the racks to see if they meet the safety and quality standards.
Tips to Avoid Common Pitfalls When Buying Cheap Racking
When sourcing cheap warehouse racking, there are different considerations to be kept in mind. Some of the tips to avoid common pitfalls are as follows:
- When converting to buy used racking systems make sure to look for the signs of damage. In case there is rust, cracked welds or bent beams prefer not to invest in them as it can impact the structural integrity of the rack. Make sure that the racks you are sourcing are not overused and are in good condition if they are overused, their load-bearing capacity can be compromised.
- Safety is more important than saving money. Always ensure that the racking system meets the safety standards and doesn’t have any structural defects. Consider investing in systems that are durable and meet warehouse requirements despite being slightly overpriced.
- The racking system you are sourcing should support the weight of the items stored. Always consider the load capacity and match it with your warehouse requirements. Make sure that these racks are compatible with your warehouse layout so that you can utilize them.
Conclusion
Lracking offers customized racking systems for your warehouse at affordable prices. You can always have hands on the high-quality, durable, and structurally stable warehouse racking systems.
We ensure that every racking system we design meets the safety standards and handles versatile loads. So, get in touch with us today and have these racks for your warehouse designed at an affordable price.
