Quality racking systems provide high-density storage that maximises warehouse space and capacity. As part of business operations, downstream efficiency and product quality remains an essential priority, and when it comes to optimising your floorspace, opting for narrow aisle racking (NAR) is a natural choice. However, there is another system on the market, the very narrow aisle racking (VNA); providing even more storage for less. Prodek understands that choosing between the two systems is not always clear-cut, so we have delved into the main differences between the two so that you can make well-informed decisions.
What is Narrow Aisle Racking (NAR)?
Narrow aisle racking is a specialised storage system designed to maximise warehouse floor space and optimise efficiency through narrow aisles and vertical space. NAR systems are condensed down to an aisle width of 1.8 – 2.3 metres, which is significantly more refined compared to standard pallet racking widths of 3 – 4 metres.
This setup enables the volume of product inventory to increase within limited warehouse space, whilst still establishing effective storage and accessibility. A narrow aisle racking system requires the use of specialist narrow aisle forklift trucks, also known as trilateral and bilateral turret trucks. This equipment is bespoke to such systems, providing ergonomic design to pick and move stock when required.
What is Very Narrow Aisle Racking (VNA)?
Very narrow aisle racking has all the features of narrow aisle racking systems but within an even more refined size to utilise every cubic square metre. The VNA racking system has aisle widths of just 1.5 to 1.6 metres, and up to 18 metres high, providing 55% space utilisation.
The very narrow aisle racking also utilises specialised forklift equipment that uses wire or rail-guided access. Although typically more expensive, they are considered to provide more accurate results compared to regular forklifts due to their streamlined manoeuvrability and reduction in human error.
Exploring the Differences Between NAR and VNA Racking
Storage Capacity
Both racking systems offer exceptional storage capabilities for limited warehouse spaces. Maximising the vertical space allows the storage density to significantly increase, without occupying valuable square footage. Narrow aisle racking offers 50% space utilisation and 55% for very narrow aisle racking. Although the 5% can appear negligible, it can offer increased profit margins and warehouse capabilities.
Aisle Width
What differentiates the two racking systems is how wide the aisles are. NAR requires 1.8 to 2.3 metres of width, while VNA is between 1.5 to 1.6 metres. This difference in aisle width offers more storage with less occupied space, utilising vertical storage instead. This is extremely beneficial for smaller sites or businesses who wish to avoid moving premises.
Forklift Access
Narrow aisle racking requires narrow forklift trucks that are capable of manoeuvring the limited space. These forklift trucks can be found more frequently within warehouses due to their limited size, which makes them perfect for navigating small premises. VNA racking relies on specialised forklifts that are guided by wires or rails to ensure the safe storage of products. These specialised forklifts are generally more expensive than regular narrow trucks but are known to be more precise.
Functionality
Each racking system offers a scope of benefits and considerations, depending on your business needs. Narrow aisle racking provides full ease of access to pick and return stock, but the added storage capacity is lost due to the slightly wider aisles. VNA racking delivers higher storage density but can be much more difficult to access inventory due to the requirement of specialist equipment.
Expenses
Typically, VNA racking costs more due to the investment in specialised forklifts and extra installation. However, it offers much more storage density in comparison to other narrow aisle solutions. This can be cost-effective, by utilising more vertical storage space, the move to bigger premises is delayed or mitigated entirely, therefore generating significant long-term savings.
Summarising Narrow Aisle Racking vs. VNA Racking
In short, both systems offer excellent storage for increased inventory while maintaining the square footage of smaller establishments. To understand which system is most appropriate for your facility, a professional site audit can offer bespoke recommendations based on your business operations and the size of your site.
Standard Pallet Racking
- Aisle width – 3.5 to 4 metres
- Forklift – Counterbalance truck
Narrow Aisle Pallet Racking
- Aisle width – 1.8 to 2.3 metres
- Forklift – Narrow aisle truck
VNA Racking
- Aisle width – 1.5 to 1.6 metres
- Forklift – Rail or wire-guided VNA truck
Trust Prodek for Your Storage Racking Solutions
At Prodek, we pride ourselves on the narrow racking systems we design and install to maximise every square metre of your site. Our clients are important to us, so we ensure only the highest standard of service, with full SEIRS accreditation and SEMA racking inspectors for your safety.
Our racking systems are tailored to you and your business requirements. As part of our full-package services, our expert team conducts thorough site audits and project finance solutions to find the most optimal racking system within your budget.
If you’re looking for further guidance on narrow racking systems, contact Prodek today and discover how we can help elevate your business even further.
