Semi-Automated Cart-Based

HTI's custom-engineered semi-automated cart-based racking systems are high-density storage systems that use carts controlled by a handheld radio transmitter to transport pallets into the system and retrieve pallets for shipment. This multifunction design enables deeper lane configurations than other high-density storage systems and retrieving pallets from any lane and multiple SKU locations without driving into the system.

Pallets are loaded and unloaded using a cart at either end of the system from the first picking position. Last-in, first-out (LIFO) pallets are loaded in and out of the system from the main aisles using the semi-automated cart. Finally, first-in, first-out (FIFO) pallets are loaded into the system from one aisle and then unloaded from another.

In case-pick environments, semi-automated carts can be combined with other storage systems such as pallet flow racking. High-density storage occurs in the upper levels, whereas case picking is carried out in the lanes and then run through the system.

When using a picking system, semi-automated cart-based racking systems maintain what's known as the 80/20 rule:

• Twenty percent of SKUs represent 80 percent of your volume.
• Eighty percent of your volume (20 percent of your SKUs) will be stored and distributed with the semi-automated cart-based racking system.
• The remaining 20 percent of your volume is stored on the warehouse floor in a gravity rack or selective racking system.

Semi-automated cart-based racking systems are ideal for warehouse operations looking to upgrade their manufacturing processes but still rely on human operators or have assembly processes too complex to be carried out by a fully automated system.