Here at Rackline we believe that we are more than a supplier of storage equipment, we see ourselves as a consultant and a close partner to our clients. From the initial enquiry we ensure that we are working side by side in the development of the perfect storage solutions.
In the initial meetings with customers, we closely examine the spaces that need attention and get a deep understanding of the needs of the client in terms of the items being stored (dimensions, weights and materials) and how these need to be stored in the space (for example, humidity levels, light levels and temperature).
Only then can we introduce our solutions, and look at any bespoke storage which may be needed. After spending time with the client and outlining the options, only then that we can start the planning process:
Stage 1 – Design Layouts
The starting point our design process and for any shelving system concept is to establish firm layout designs. This process may take many drawing revisions and project design meetings between Rackline Design Engineers and the client project team.
As discussed, Rackline work closely with the client project team in order to reduce design time and to establish the optimum working solution, in terms of cost and usability. This may also include Rackline carrying out a full ergonomic audit of the collections to be stored within the shelving system.
The design layout stage can sometimes take months or even years to achieve a solution that can be agreed and signed off for manufacture.
Stage 2 – 3D Perspective views and walkthrough
At the design process stage 2 Rackline can offer an exclusive 3D perspective view of the proposed system, and even 3D walkthroughs to give the client a 3D view of the proposed system within the environment of the room layout.
This concept allows both the design team and the client to view any potential service obstructions, as well as offering a perspective view of the final installation before any steel component is even issued for manufacture.
This process can potentially save money and allow for further design changes
to take place.
Stage 3 – Site Survey
When all drawing designs are approved by the client, and when the installation area is clear and sufficiently progressed, a full site survey will be conducted by Rackline to ascertain exact site dimensions. Following the survey, the drawing designs will again be reviewed and all dimensions checked to ensure that the shelving system will fit and operate as designed.
Several site surveys may be necessary depending on the phasing of the installation process, for example mobile racking floor tracks may be fitted within a concrete screed prior to any shelving component being built.
During the site survey, checks are also carried out to ascertain the logistics of transporting materials around site to the build areas. This will form the basis of component manufacture size and the planning involved around the installation Program of Works.
Stage 4 – Installation Planning
All Rackline projects require pre-installation planning to ensure smooth installation on behalf of the client and Rackline installation teams. Rackline have a dedicated contracts department that deal with all project installation planning, which can cover the planning of as many as ten separate installation teams in any one given day throughout the UK and Europe.
As well as planning the installation teams, our contracts department will also pre-plan the delivery of the components to site in order to supply components in line with the build program and also to minimize product on site.
Project meetings will be held internally to cover all aspects of procurement, manufacturing lead times, installation time tables etc. Internal meetings will also be held between the project team and the installation team supervisor to ensure that all aspects of the installation are understood and planned as per the client’s requirements. During large projects that may span over several months, these internal Planning meetings will take place weekly to control all aspects of the project as it proceeds.
Stage 5 – Site Installation
Stage 5 of the project process will involve the actual installation of the shelving system. All pre-installation planning will have taken place so that the installation team is fully briefed on the installation sequence and site constraints/restrictions.
All Rackline installations are carried out by qualified and highly trained installation personnel, who undergo regular health and safety training and carry all of the relevant CSCS and SSS safety cards.
All Rackline installation teams are issued with project specific Method Statements & Risk Assessments which are reviewed prior to commencement of all installations.
Stage 6 – Completed shelving system and handover
Upon completion of the shelving system build, the project and installation team will carry out an inspection process of the entire fit-out, to ensure that the build complies with the relevant layout drawings and to deal with any snagging issues that may have been detected during the inspection.
Once all snag works are completed an official handover will take place between the client and the Rackline project team.
Upon handover, full training will take place so that the end users are fully aware of operating procedures and preventive maintenance for the system. To accompany the handover a full Operations & Maintenance manual will be issued for the client’s records. A full after sales service is available at all times following completion.