Based on what type of racking you have in your warehouse, different camera systems might be more beneficial to your operations. Below is a guide to the different types of warehouse racking and the forklift camera systems that can optimize safety, efficiency, and accuracy in each setup.
1. Selective Racking
Selective racking, also known as single deep racking, is the most common type of racking. It’s called “selective” because it gives direct access to every pallet, allowing operators to “select” any pallet easily. Here’s how camera systems can elevate this setup:
- Rear-View Cameras: Because these are the most common types of racking, we often see the racks themselves are damaged due to inexperienced operators. The addition of backup cameras will lower costs for the equipment and racking themselves. Rear-view cameras provide drivers with visibility behind the forklift, minimizing the risk of collisions in narrow aisles.
- Fork-View Cameras or Laser Guides: These deliver a clear view of the fork tips, ensuring precise pallet placement and reducing handling errors. Some systems even include barcode scanning capabilities for added efficiency.
2. Double Deep Racking
Double deep racking builds on the selective model by adding a second row of pallets for increased storage capacity. The following camera systems are especially useful in double-deep racking:
- Fork-View Cameras or LED Lights: Improve navigation and pallet retrieval by helping operators see into the deeper rows.
- Recording Systems: Capture operations in real-time, enhancing operator accountability and providing a visual record in case of incidents.
3. Drive-In/Drive-Through Racking
Drive-in and drive-through racking systems are designed for high-density storage and require precise maneuvering since forklifts drive directly into the racking. The following camera systems are ideal for this environment:
- Front and Rear-View Cameras: Offering a full view around the forklift, these systems enable operators to navigate tight spaces and avoid collisions. Systems like our Switch camera system are particularly effective in this setup.
- Recording Systems: Help monitor operations, providing valuable footage for training or incident review.
4. Push-Back Racking
Push-back racking is exactly how it sounds. Products are pushed back using nested carts or rollers to store pallets, following a Last-In, First-Out (LIFO) system. Precision is key for this type of racking. Here’s how the right cameras can help:
- Fork-View Cameras: Ensure accurate pallet placement on the carts, reducing misalignments and preventing damage.
- Rear-View Cameras: Aid in safe reverse movements, especially when handling heavier or bulkier loads.
5. Pallet Flow Racking
Pallet flow racking uses gravity to move pallets, operating on a First-In, First-Out (FIFO) system. Pallets are placed on one end and picked on the other, creating a “flow”. These camera systems can enhance operations:
- Fork-View Cameras: Help operators place and retrieve pallets with precision, essential when loading or unloading from flow lanes.
6. Cantilever Racking
Cantilever racking is designed for storing long, bulky items like pipes or lumber. The right camera systems make handling these items much safer and easier:
- Fork-View Cameras: Provide a clear view of the fork tips, critical for safely placing and retrieving long items.
- Rear-View Cameras: Improve visibility when maneuvering long loads, reducing the risk of accidents in confined spaces.
- Pedestrian Detection Systems: Alert operators to pedestrians nearby, particularly useful when moving large items that can obstruct the view.
7. Rack Stacking
Rack stacking involves storing pallets on top of each other or in tall stacks on racking shelves, which requires careful alignment and placement. Precision is key in this setup, making the Integra POGO an ideal camera choice:
- Integra POGO: When the forks are raised, this camera automatically lowers below the fork line, giving operators a clear view of the rack posts and receptacles. This assists operators with precise alignment, decreasing racking damage and enhancing load stability. As the forks lower, the camera retracts automatically to avoid hitting the ground.
8. High Reach/Extremely High Racking
High-reach racking is used in warehouses that store goods at significant heights, where visibility becomes a challenge at elevated levels. The Mast Cam-I camera system offers a highly effective solution for this demanding setup:
- Mast Cam-I: The Mast Cam-I provides clear, latency-free viewing even at heights exceeding 505 inches, making it one of the highest-reaching camera systems in the industry. This enhanced visibility on a cab-mounted monitor enables operators to handle pallets at tall heights with greater safety and precision, reducing guesswork and lowering the risk of accidents. The Mast Cam-I also reduces operator neck strain by providing a clear, live view without the need for excessive head-tilting.
Conclusion
Matching the right forklift camera system to your racking setup is essential for maximizing safety and efficiency in your warehouse. At HVS, we offer a wide range of advanced camera solutions tailored to fit your specific needs—whether you’re looking for enhanced visibility, precision pallet placement, or comprehensive safety features.
Ready to optimize your warehouse operations? Contact us today to get the camera system suited to your warehouse. We’re here to help you create a safer, more efficient work environment by tailoring a solution that fits your warehouse, your trucks, and your specific needs.
Written by Jessica Ribbens
