Gravity Flow Racks | Efficient Warehouse Storage Solutions
Gravity flow racks use roller tracks and sloped lanes to move inventory automatically, supporting faster order picking, better stock rotation, and high-density storage. Ideal for warehouses, DCs, and backroom logistics zones that depend on first-in, first-out efficiency
How Gravity Flow Systems Work
Gravity flow racks use sloped roller tracks to move products from the loading side to the picking side — no motors or power required. Items are loaded in the back and automatically roll to the front, creating a true first-in, first-out (FIFO) flow. This passive movement keeps picking operations fast and efficient.
By separating loading and picking zones, these racks eliminate congestion while ensuring older inventory is used first. The consistent front-facing product layout also reduces pick time and walking distance.
Benefits include:
- Passive gravity-based movement
- FIFO rotation keeps oldest stock forward
- Separate loading and picking aisles
- Sloped rollers for continuous product flow
- Ideal for warehouses, DCs, and retail backrooms
Options for Every Product Type
Different rack configurations are available depending on product size, weight, and packaging. Carton flow racks feature sloped shelves for lightweight boxes and totes, while pallet flow racks handle heavier loads with deep-lane storage.
Carton flow shelves can be adjusted to hold boxes of different sizes and support 50–100 lbs per square foot. For pallets, gravity-fed lanes store 2–10 pallets deep and include brakes to prevent over-speeding.
Benefits include:
- Carton flow for boxed inventory
- Pallet flow racks for high-weight goods
- Depth-based storage from 2–10 pallets deep
- Adjustable lanes for mixed SKUs
- Brakes and guides for pallet control
Boost Storage Density Without Expansion
Mobile wide span racks mount to rail systems that eliminate fixed aisles, increasing storage density without sacrificing access. Carriages are controlled by mechanical-assist handles or powered systems and include locking features for safety.
Benefits include:
- Reduces aisle space between rows
- Multi-level storage maximizes vertical capacity
- Stores 3–4x more inventory than static shelving
- Consolidates operations into a smaller footprint
- Creates room for other warehouse processes
Who Benefits from Wide Span Storage Racks?
- Warehouse Bulk Storage
Frequently Asked Questions
- Faster picking with products presented at the front face
- Less walking between picks with concentrated storage zones
- Reduced search time with clear product visibility
- Automatic stock rotation eliminating manual rotation tasks
- Better ergonomics with products at convenient picking height
Most operations pick 30–40% faster with gravity flow, with fewer errors and less worker fatigue. The productivity gains quickly pay for the system.
- Containerized items with consistent dimensions
- Boxed products, totes, cases, and palletized goods
- Items with flat bottom surfaces for smooth rolling
- Products with sufficient weight to overcome roller friction
- Items that benefit from FIFO inventory management
Southwest Solutions Group can assess your inventory to suggest the best setup.
Yes. Span track systems fit directly into standard pallet racks. Standalone gravity flow units can replace static shelving sections. These systems also work well with pick-to-light systems and warehouse software. Southwest Solutions Group specializes in creating solutions that use your existing equipment while adding gravity flow benefits.
Yes. Carton flow systems offer adjustable trays for boxes or totes of varying sizes. Pallet flow racks can be configured for different lane depths, weight ratings, and brake setups. Both systems are scalable and can be installed in phases to meet space or budget constraints.
Pallet flow racks include built-in speed controllers and brake rollers to slow pallets as they advance. These features maintain safe, controlled movement and prevent product damage or unsafe collisions during picking.
Gravity racks require proper slope, level flooring, and clear access on both the loading and picking sides. Pallet flow lanes must be installed with appropriate brake spacing.
Southwest Solutions Group can design and install systems that fit within your existing racking or footprint.
Honest Results
“I wanted to say thank you for all the guys that installed the remaining two active racks this week. They did an outstanding job and we couldn’t have asked for a better group of guys to install. Thanks again to Chester, Bruce, Jay, Donald, and Christopher"
“Just wanted to reach out and tell you how pleased I am with the renovation. I have been at SMU for quite a long time and for a while I thought that I was destined for inefficient, terrible storage spaces. The transformation that took place was absolutely mind blowing."
“I searched high and low for a heavy-duty cabinet that was new, attractive, had drawers that could support more than 100 lbs., and was reasonably priced. I was running out of time when I found your website, it was a lifesaver!”
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Gravity flow racking helps you maximize storage density, speed up order picking, and streamline inventory rotation without expanding your footprint. Whether you’re managing pallets, cartons, or mixed SKUs, Southwest Solutions Group offers tailored solutions that fit your space and your workflow. Our experts can help design a system that improves efficiency from day one. Call us at (800) 803-1083 or Contact Us to schedule your free consultation today.
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