Advantages and Disadvantages of Very Narrow Aisle Pallet Racking

The Very Narrow Aisle (VNA) Pallet Racking System is a highly efficient logistics and warehouse storage solution that maximizes vertical and horizontal space. By reducing aisle widths to as narrow as 1.6 meters and supporting rack heights up to 15 meters, VNA systems can significantly increase storage density, making them ideal for industries handling large quantities of uniform goods. However, while the benefits of enhanced space utilization and operational efficiency are clear, the system also comes with specific challenges, including high equipment costs, strict floor requirements, and a need for skilled forklift operators. This article explores both the advantages and disadvantages of implementing Very Narrow Aisle Pallet Racking in your warehouse.

Advantages of Very Narrow Aisle Pallet Racking

1. High space utilization

Principle: Very Narrow Aisle Pallet Racking reduces the width of the passage between the racks, thereby laying more racks in limited warehouse space and increasing storage space. Generally, the aisle width is about 1.6-2 meters, which can greatly improve the space utilization of the warehouse compared to the traditional rack aisle width (usually 2.5-4 meters).

2. High storage density

Performance: Very Narrow Aisle Pallet Racking is high-rise storage, usually with rack heights that can reach 10-15 meters, or even higher.

Compared with ordinary racks, the storage density of Very Narrow Aisle Pallet Racking can be increased by 30% – 50%, which is especially suitable for goods with relatively single storage varieties and large batches, such as food, beverages, daily necessities, and other industries.

3. Improve the efficiency of goods storage and Equipment Cooperation

Narrow-aisle three-way stacker forklift has flexible steering and operating performance, and can quickly and accurately store and retrieve goods in narrow aisles.

Disadvantages of Very Narrow Aisle Pallet Racking

1. Large investment in equipment

High-priced forklifts: A narrow tunnel three-way stacking forklift is a special storage equipment with high technical content and complex manufacturing processes, so it is relatively expensive.

2. High requirements for the warehouse floor

Flatness requirements: Uneven ground will lead to unstable driving of forklifts, affecting the accuracy and safety of goods, and may even damage the racks and goods.

Load-bearing capacity requirements: The warehouse floor also needs to have sufficient load-bearing capacity to withstand the weight of racks and cargo and the driving pressure of the forklift. If the ground load-bearing capacity is insufficient, it may cause problems such as sinking and cracking on the ground, affecting the stability and service life of the racks.

3. It is difficult to operate

High driver skills requirements: Operating a three-way stacking forklift in narrow lanes requires the driver to have high operating skills and extensive experience. Drivers need to master the operating skills of forklifts and be able to accurately and quickly complete the storage and withdrawal of goods in narrow passages.