What to Expect During a Mobile Racking Installation
When it comes to maximizing storage efficiency, mobile racking systems are a total game-changer. These systems eliminate fixed aisles, allowing you to fit more storage into the same footprint while improving accessibility and workflow.
But if you’ve never gone through a mobile racking installation before, you might be wondering: What exactly happens during the process? Understanding what to expect helps you plan, minimize downtime, and feel confident knowing your system will be installed safely and efficiently.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through every phase of a mobile racking installation, from preparation to post-installation, and answer some of the most common questions facilities ask before getting started.
1. Pre-Installation Planning
The key to a smooth mobile racking installation starts long before any equipment arrives. Planning ensures the system fits your space, workflow, and safety needs perfectly.
Here’s what usually happens during this stage:
- Site Survey: Upon request, a professional installer can visit your facility to measure, inspect the floor, and identify potential obstacles before installation. This service, available for an additional fee, helps ensure your design and layout are optimized for safety, space efficiency, and workflow.
- System Design: Based on your layout, inventory, and workflow, designers create a configuration that maximizes your space while maintaining safety and accessibility.
- Preparation: Before installation day, clear any equipment, inventory, or obstructions from the designated area.
- Communication: Make sure your team knows the installation schedule and any temporary access limitations.
Proper planning helps minimize surprises and ensures your system is installed efficiently and safely.
More information on planning your layout here.
2. Delivery of Mobile Racking Components
Once everything’s approved, your mobile racking components will be delivered to your facility. This typically includes:
- Tracks
- Mobile carriages
- Uprights and shelving
- Hardware and safety accessories
Inspect all deliveries to confirm that components are accounted for and undamaged before installation begins. Before installation begins, confirm that all components have arrived in good condition. Be sure to have an adequate staging area available to safely store materials during installation. Whenever possible, keep materials inside to protect them from weather damage and minimize the risk of theft.
3. Site Preparation
Before installation officially kicks off, the area must be prepped:
- Clear the Space: Move any equipment or inventory out of the work zone.
- Check the Floor: Installers may need to verify that your floor is level and can handle the weight of fully loaded racks.
- Mark Track Placement: The installation team will mark exact track locations to ensure perfect alignment.
This stage sets the foundation for a seamless install.
4. Installing the Tracks
Tracks are the foundation of every mobile racking system. They guide the racks’ movement and ensure long-term stability.
- Track Alignment: Installers position and anchor the tracks with precision, following the approved layout plan.
- Anchoring and Leveling: Tracks are secured and tested for evenness to ensure smooth motion.
- Final Check: Installers test the track alignment before proceeding to the next phase.
A level, well-anchored track system ensures your racks glide effortlessly and safely for years to come.
5. Assembling and Installing the Racks
Once the mobile bases are in place, it’s time for the racks themselves:
- Assembly: The rack structures are built and secured according to engineering specifications.
- Placement: The assembled racks are placed onto the mobile bases and checked for proper movement.
This is when you’ll start to see your new storage system take shape. It’s a satisfying transformation; your space begins to look more efficient and streamlined almost instantly.
6. Testing and Safety Checks
Before handoff, every mobile racking installation goes through rigorous testing:
- Operational Testing: Installers move the racks along the tracks to confirm smooth motion, proper track alignment, and check for obstructions.
- Load Testing: Some systems are tested under load to ensure stability.
- Safety Verification: Locks, brakes, and safety mechanisms are tested to meet safety standards.
- Training: Your installation team provides on-site training so your staff knows how to safely operate the system.
This phase guarantees your system is safe, functional, and ready for daily use.
7. Post-Installation Support
A great installation doesn’t end when the racks are in place. Pipp Mobile offers comprehensive post-installation support to keep your system running at peak performance:
- Maintenance Tips: Routine checks help keep your system running smoothly.
- Expansion and Support: As your storage needs evolve, additional racks or accessories can be added seamlessly.
With ongoing support, you can feel confident your investment will perform reliably for years to come.
8. The Benefits of a Smooth Mobile Racking Installation
When a mobile racking system is installed by professionals, the results are transformative:
- Maximize Your Space: Eliminate fixed aisles and use every inch of your facility.
- Improve Efficiency: Better organization and access save time and labor.
- Enhance Safety: Professionally installed systems minimize workplace hazards.
- Future-Proof Your Space: Easily expand or reconfigure as your operations grow.
Pipp Mobile’s expert team ensures your installation is efficient, safe, and tailored to your exact needs.
9. Tips for a Successful Installation
To make the most of your mobile racking installation:
- Plan Ahead: Clear your space and schedule around installation.
- Stay Involved: Be available for quick decisions during installation.
- Trust the Experts: Always use experienced, manufacturer-certified installers.
- Train Your Team: Ensure everyone understands safety and operation guidelines.
- Maintain Regularly: Routine care ensures long-lasting performance.
Preparation and communication go a long way in keeping your installation smooth and stress-free.
Conclusion
Installing a mobile racking system is one of the smartest moves you can make to improve space utilization and operational efficiency. While the process may seem complex, understanding each stage, from site prep to testing, makes it simple and predictable.
At Pipp Mobile, we handle every step with precision, professionalism, and safety at the forefront. Our goal is to make your installation experience seamless, efficient, and transformative.
Ready to unlock your space’s full potential?
👉 Contact Pipp Mobile to start planning your mobile racking installation today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mobile Racking Installation
Q: How long does a mobile racking installation take?
A: Most installations can be completed in a day, depending on system size and site conditions.
Q: Will installation disrupt my daily operations?
A: Not necessarily. Many installations can be completed in phases, allowing you to continue operations in other areas while installation is underway. In some cases, installation can also be scheduled during off-hours or weekends to further reduce disruption to your day-to-day workflow.
Q: Do I need to prepare my space before installation?
A: Yes. Clear the installation area of any equipment, products, or obstacles. The floor should be clean and free of debris for safe track installation.
Q: Are mobile racking systems safe for heavy loads?
A: Absolutely. Pipp Mobile systems are designed to handle heavy-duty storage solution requirements safely and efficiently. Each system is tested to ensure stability and compliance with safety standards.
Q: Can mobile racks be customized for my specific needs?
A: Yes! Every Pipp Mobile system is tailored to your facility’s dimensions, workflow, and storage goals. From rack height to carriage type, customization is part of the process.
Q: What maintenance do mobile racks require?
A: Regular cleaning of tracks, checking for debris, and periodic inspections keep your system performing like new.
Q: Can I expand my mobile racking system later?
A: Definitely. Mobile racking systems are designed to grow with your business. Expansion can be easily planned and integrated into your existing system.
Q: Why choose Pipp Mobile for installation?
A: Pipp Mobile’s team brings years of specialized expertise, high-quality engineering, and reliable customer support. We manage everything from design to installation, ensuring your system performs safely and efficiently. Pipp-provided installation services come with a 1-year labor warranty, in addition to our standard parts warranty for an added layer of protection.