Carton flow racking is a gravity-based storage system designed to improve carton and piece-picking efficiency using First-In, First-Out (FIFO) flow.
Cartons are loaded from the rear of the rack and automatically move forward on roller tracks to the picking face. This ensures proper stock rotation, faster picking, and better space utilization—making carton flow racking ideal for high-throughput picking operations.
Why Carton Flow Racking is Suitable for You
01
FIFO for Carton and Case Picking
Cartons flow automatically from loading to picking positions, ensuring correct stock rotation and expiry control.
02
Faster Picking and Higher Productivity
Pickers always work at the front face, reducing travel time and improving picking speed and consistency.
03
High Packing Density
Deep lanes and compact shelf design allow more cartons to be stored within the same footprint compared to static shelving.
04
Ideal for High-Throughput Operations
Well suited for distribution centers, e-commerce fulfillment, retail replenishment, and fast-moving SKUs.
How Does Carton Flow Racking Work?
Carton flow racking uses inclined roller tracks installed on shelving levels. When cartons are loaded at the rear, gravity causes them to move smoothly toward the picking face at the front.
As cartons are picked, the remaining cartons automatically advance forward, ensuring continuous product availability at the pick face. Speed controllers can be added to regulate carton movement for safe and controlled flow.
Shelf depth, roller type, slope angle, and load capacity are designed based on carton size, weight, throughput requirements, and picking method.
This system enables continuous FIFO picking with minimal manual handling, improving efficiency and accuracy.
System Structure
Carton flow racking systems consist of the following key components:
- Shelving frames and levels – supporting the overall structure
- Roller tracks – gravity conveyors guiding carton movement
- Brake rollers or speed controllers – regulating carton flow speed
- Front stops or carton retainers – holding cartons safely at the pick face
Optional accessories include:
- Lane dividers for SKU separation
- Pick-to-light or labeling systems
- Back loading guides
- End-of-aisle protection
These components help ensure smooth operation, safety, and long-term reliability.
Explore Our Case Studies
See some selected examples of Carton Flow Racking projects implemented across customer sites.
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