Racking may be familiar to everyone, from the medicine cabinets in ancient Chinese herbal pharmacies to various racks used in modern shopping malls and stores, to the steel racks or racks made of more advanced materials in large three-dimensional warehouses, all of which are well-known to people. However, when it comes to racking from a deeper, professional perspective, not many people may know about it.

The development of modern logistics is the prerequisite for the emergence and development of multi-level warehouses, which is compatible with the development of industry and technology. Modern large-scale production increasingly promotes the socialization, specialization, and centralization of industrial production. The high mechanization and automation of production inevitably require timely, rapid, and accurate supply and distribution of materials. This has prompted the rapid development of multi-level warehouse technology, which has become a symbol of high technology in factory design.

For space planning, it is essential to first categorize and understand the usage direction of each space. Then, assess its weight in various aspects and make trade-offs. After evaluating and comparing the weights, proceed with the design and layout. If the storage space is limited and cannot be changed through planning and design, it is necessary to explore methods to maximize the utilization of the existing storage space. This places higher demands on the shelving system. The emergence of modern warehouses drives the development of shelving systems.

Storage racks play a crucial role in modern logistics activities. The modernization of warehouse management is directly related to the types and functions of storage racks. The functions and roles of storage racks are as follows. A storage rack is a frame-like structure that can fully utilize warehouse space, improve storage capacity utilization, and expand warehouse storage capacity. Goods stored in racks do not press against each other, resulting in minimal material loss and fully ensuring the functionality of the materials themselves, thereby reducing the loss of goods. Goods stored in racks are easy to access, facilitate inventory and measurement, and enable first-in, first-out (FIFO) management. To ensure the quality of stored goods, measures such as moisture prevention, dust prevention, theft prevention, and damage prevention can be taken to improve the quality of material storage. The structure and functions of many new types of racks are conducive to achieving mechanized and automated warehouse management.

The space designated for storing goods is referred to as the storage space. Although this space appears to be solely for storage purposes, in reality, it serves as a relay station in the procurement, transportation, marketing, and distribution of goods. Therefore, the storage area has become the central hub for the storage and transportation of goods. Consequently, the effective utilization of storage space has become an important issue that managers and logistics center operators strive to improve.

Arranging merchandise in an orderly manner allows customers to see at a glance and quickly grasp the product information. Through the sensory display of merchandise, it stimulates and reinforces the decision to purchase. It is also a basic business facility for salespeople to provide high-level service to customers. Whether it is cabinet shelves, display case shelves, box shelves, or hanging rod shelves, they are all used to place different merchandise for customers to easily select. Groups of shelves separate different varieties of products for sale, forming sales teams. This allows customers to enter the store's sales area and follow the aisle network formed by the shelves, seeing the wide range of merchandise the store offers. The sales service in the store is directly completed with customers in front of the shelves.