Data Center Technical Services

Rack and Stack Done Right: Minimising Risk in Data Centre Installations

In the rapidly evolving world of data centre deployment, ‘rack and stack’ is often viewed as a final, routine step. However, this critical phase is far from simple, it’s a high-stakes process that can make or break a project. 

Poor execution can lead to delays and equipment damage. The complex and critical networking need to be cabled and built without interruption to business while the rest of the data centre comes online.  Which demonstrates the interplay between the technological potential and the fragility of installing the technical rack and stack process correctly. 

This article examines why rack and stack is more than just a technical step, and how expert installation minimises risk and ensures success. Highlighting why ATC’s specialist approach delivers secure, precise installations globally.   

What Is Rack and Stack? 

Rack and Stack is a common term in data centre operations and refers to the physical installation of servers, routers, switches and other network infrastructure into server racks and installed in data centres. Installed by expert technicians who follow strict handling guidelines, like precision placement using industry-leading tools.   

 At ATC, rack and stack is a meticulously planned, multi-step process that includes: 

• Unboxing, inspection of hardware and equipment 

• Assembly and secure mounting of components into racks 

• Structured labelling and cabling for clarity and future maintenance 

• Testing and power connections to ensure functionality 

• Configuration preparation to ensure smooth transition to operational status 

• Final positioning and placement with the data centre 

• Environmental alignment to optimise airflow and cooling 

This process is critical in preparing a data centre or server room for operation. It bridges the gap between logistics and live infrastructure and must be executed with precision to avoid costly rework, delays and potential equipment damage. 

The Risks of Poor Rack and Stack Execution 

There are many risks associated with substandard rack and stack execution in data centre installations which can be significant and multifaceted. The primary concerns are hardware damage, airflow, cooling failures, cable management, power distribution, operational downtime, scalability, and security compliance failures.  

The potential for equipment to be damaged during handling and installation, which leads to costly repairs or replacements. For example, misaligned mounting can bend chassis and strip rack screws. Furthermore, misaligned hardware can result in cooling inefficiencies or performance issues, which further exacerbates challenges and potentially reduces the lifespan of the equipment.   

Extended project timelines due to rework of cabling or technical faults are another critical risk, often leading to increased costs, delays and business downtime. Perhaps most concerning is the operational risk in hyperscale or critical infrastructure environments, where even the most minor error can cause far-reaching consequences. Ensuring expertise, meticulous attention to detail, and adherence to best practices in rack and stack execution is essential to mitigate these risks and maintain the integrity and efficiency of data centre operations. 

Why Specialist Rack and Stack Services Make the Difference 

Specialist rack and stack services are critical in ensuring the successful installation, operation of data centre equipment and minimising business downtime. Only expertly trained personnel understand how to handle high-value, sensitive IT equipment, minimising the risk of damage during handling and installation 

Extensive experience provides the knowledge and familiarity with complex environments, site restrictions, technical specifications allowing them to navigate and address potential challenges effectively. Moreover, an integrated approach reduces handover delays between logistics and technical teams, ensuring a seamless transition from delivery to installation.  This enhances overall efficiency and reduces project timelines.  

By leveraging the expertise of specialist services, organisations can ensure that their data centre installations are executed with precision, reliability, and care, while maintaining the integrity and performance of their infrastructure for a smooth transition. 

ATC’s Commitment to Safe, Precise Installation 

At ATC, our commitment to safe, precise, and professional installation is in our DNA. With over 45 years of experience in industry, we have a proven record of exceeding our clients’ expectations. We are a result-driven business serving hyperscale data centres, colocation data centres and cloud computing companies. 

Our commitment to being an industry leader is driven by a focus on;  

• Specialised training: We make considerable ongoing investments in specialist training for rack and stack and technical operatives, ensures all our personnel are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to handle high-value, sensitive IT equipment. Our purpose-built technical training facilities simulate real-world data centre conditions, providing our technicians with hands-on experience in environments that closely mirror those they will encounter in the field.  

• Continuous skills development:  ATC’s commitment to continuous skills development is a cornerstone of our approach, ensuring that our teams meet evolving technical and safety standards.  

• Global reach and experience: We have trusted experience delivering projects across the FLAPD markets of Frankfurt, London, Amsterdam, Paris, Dublin and wider Europe whilst expanding globally. ATC’s commitment to safe and precise installation is evident in our track record of successful data centre projects. 

Protect Your Investment with Expert Rack and Stack Services 

In summary, substandard installation can compromise project timelines, budgets, and infrastructure performance. ATC’s expertly trained teams, technical expertise, and full lifecycle logistics approach significantly reduce risks.  

Our excellence is in the details. We strive to elevate our work by focusing on precision, authenticity and expertise. By leveraging ATC’s logistics and technical services specialists, you can ensure that your data centre installations are executed with precision, reliability, and care.  

As a data centre services specialist with global reach, we are integrated in our approach and innovative in action, delivering a competitive edge. Contact ATC today to discuss how our Rack and Stack services can safeguard your next data centre project and drive your business forward.  

Chris Cousins 

Key Account Manager 

 

Managing Cross-Border Data Centre Migrations  

Transferring critical IT infrastructure across borders presents significant challenges for businesses, whether you’re moving within a city or across continents. Presently, the global worth of the data centre industry is estimated to be worth $242.72 billion and projected to more than double to over $584billion by 2032 (weforum.org). With growing demand for data centres in major global hubs due to growth of the digital economy, ensuring seamless cross-border migration is a vital business priority. In this article, we highlight key elements of strategies organisations must adopt to avoid disruption to business and manage risk effectively. 

Understand the Full Scope of Your Data Centre Migration 

Effective data centre migration involves more than just the transport of goods from point a to point b. It includes comprehensive inventory management, de-installation of equipment, secure handling, and reinstallation, all while considering critical dependencies such as networks, cooling systems, security measures, and compliance regulations. 

At ATC, we recognise that each migration is unique, with its own challenges and complexities. That’s why we have transport planners in place to prioritise meticulous pre-migration planning and actively listen to our clients’ needs to ensure a comprehensive approach is applied. 

Planning for Cross-Border Challenges 

Cross-border data centre migrations introduce a new box of complexities, including customs procedures, regulatory requirements, and extensive documentation. Additionally, site access, security protocols, and transport conditions often vary widely across countries, amplifying these challenges. 

One prominent example is Brexit, which reshaped the logistics landscape between the UK and Europe. The introduction of new customs checks, and regulatory barriers has created additional hurdles for goods crossing the UK-EU border.  

Additionally, regional trade agreements and geopolitical factors can significantly impact logistics strategies. For example, navigating tariff changes or adapting to political shifts requires agility and foresight. 

The good news is that ATC has the expertise, with not only a presence in the major data centre regions such as the FLAPD markets (Frankfurt, London, Amsterdam, Paris, and Dublin). But ATC has also responded with agility to strategically mitigate cross-border challenges by expanding into new markets, establishing a strong presence in Austria, Finland, Poland, Portugal, Italy, Sweden, New Zealand, Australia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and the USA. These challenges can be successfully overcome by taking the time to understand and prepare for these hurdles, ensuring logistical plans are robust and adaptable, ready to tackle any arising obstacles. This rapid growth demonstrates ATCs commitment to strategic migration solutions delivered locally whilst maintaining global standards, positioning the company as a trusted partner in cross-border data centre migrations.  

Minimising Downtime and Risk 

It is critical to ensure business continuity during data centre migrations to protect data integrity and maintain the customers’ trust, as even a momentary disruption can lead to reputational damage and financial loss. Minimising downtime and risk require the knowledge and expertise of specialist technical logistics providers such as ATC. Our secure transport options protect sensitive equipment on route to the new location without delay. Our fleet is constantly evolving and includes GPS tracking, real-time monitoring, and alarm systems, CCTV, tamper-proof locks, and alarmed compartments to ensure the highest level of protection during transit. You can learn more about our secure transport services here.  

While our rack & stack offering ensures the precise installation and configuration of server racks while the rest of the data centre comes online. All of this takes place under strict supervision and following the most stringent security standards. 

The Value of End-to-End Project Management 

From the initial assessment to final commissioning, comprehensive project management is vital to the success of data centre migrations. At ATC, our dedicated transport planners offer an integrated approach that unifies all aspects of the project, mitigating risks associated with fragmented suppliers, such as delays and damage. 

As part of the Arvato team, an innovative 3PL service provider in the field of supply chain management, ATC now also fully leverages their extensive global presence and experience, simplifying complexities for our clients. This allows us to ensure that every phase—from planning and resource allocation to installation and commissioning—is seamlessly managed across diverse international locations. 

Our unified efforts coordinate multiple stakeholders, aligning objectives across various departments and geographical areas, delivering consistent and reliable outcomes for our clients. Our dedicated transport planners act as central points of contact, providing clear communication and transparent updates throughout giving our clients peace of mind.  

Smooth Migration Requires Specialist Expertise 

In the complex world of global data centre migrations, poorly managed moves can severely disrupt operations and damage a business’s reputation. With demand rising in major markets worldwide, seamless cross-border migration has become a critical business priority. 

ATC is equipped to handle the unique challenges of each migration, ensuring efficient planning, collaboration, and execution across diverse international locations. Our specialised expertise helps safeguard your critical infrastructure, minimising downtime and risk. 

Trust ATC’s expert team to guide you through planning your next data centre migration. We’ll ensure a tailored, smooth, secure, and efficient transition that aligns with your strategic objectives, delivering peace of mind and operational excellence worldwide. 

Lize Simon 

Head of Commercial 

 

Seamless Data Centre Logistics: How to Deliver Complex IT Projects Without the Headaches

The complexity of European data centre projects is increasing, driven by demand and technological advancements. For instance, Independent Commodity Intelligence Services sets down that the “Capacity for data centres in Europe is forecast to increase from around 9.2GW currently to 17.5GW by the end of the decade and to 26.6GW by 2035“. Furthermore, “the JLL report identifies that secondary markets in Europe, including Spain, Poland, and Romania, are projected to grow by an average of around 49 per cent.” 

Taking these reports into account, seamless data centre logistics are essential for minimising downtime and risk. 

What Do We Mean by “Seamless” Data Centre Logistics? 

Seamless data centre logistics is all about ensuring efficiency and harmony in managing every logistical aspect involved in the setup, operation, maintenance, and enhancement of data centres. It brings together equipment, personnel, software, and processes to function cohesively, eliminating costly delays, errors, and disruptions. 

Key Components of Seamless Data Centre Logistics 

In our experience, the success of any large-scale data centre project depends on mastering the following critical logistical aspects: 

• Integrated Coordination and Delivery: Seamless workflows across departments and vendors are achieved by integrating supply chain functions—from procurement through to delivery and installation—with just-in-time delivery minimising storage costs and avoiding on-site congestion. 

• Asset Management and Transport: Real-time tracking of assets and spare parts reduces downtime and prevents loss, while specialised carriers and packaging ensure the secure transport of high-value equipment. 

• Installation, Security, and Compliance: Equipment is installed and configured promptly, adhering to rigorous schedules and checklists. All activities are conducted under strict protocols to ensure compliance with regulations like GDPR and ISO standards. 

• Scalability and Recycling: Swift infrastructure scaling or reconfiguration is enabled by modular designs, while rigorous processes are in place for the responsible disposal or reuse of outdated equipment. 

 

The Real Risk of Neglecting Data Centre Logistics  

A fragmented or poorly managed logistics process directly translates into significant business challenges. Without a seamless strategy, companies often face: 

• Project Delays: Delays can occur due to poor coordination and inadequate planning, resulting in missed deadlines and increased costs.
• Equipment Damage: Without proper handling, high-value equipment is susceptible to damage during transport, leading to costly repairs or replacements.
• Increased Downtime: Inefficient logistics can result in prolonged downtime, affecting service availability and customer satisfaction.
• Regulatory Non-Compliance: Failing to comply with regional regulations can lead to fines and legal issues, especially in cross-border operations.

How ATC Delivers Seamless Data Centre Logistics Across Europe 

Backed by over 45 years of industry expertise, ATC leverages certified teams and secure transportation fleets to deliver unparalleled data centre logistics solutions across Europe. Our proven track record with hyperscale and colocation providers highlights our commitment to delivering reliable and efficient services tailored to meet the diverse needs of data centre operators. 

1. Secure Technical Transport

ATC provides robust transport solutions designed to protect high-value IT equipment, ensuring timely and secure delivery across Europe. Our specialised carriers and packaging guarantee the safe handling and transport of delicate equipment, integrating seamlessly with our end-to-end coordination efforts. 

2. White-Glove Delivery

This service offers a personalised touch to logistics, with our team ensuring that each piece of equipment is handled with care during transport and delivery. By employing just-in-time delivery techniques, we minimise storage costs and prevent site congestion, ensuring that everything arrives precisely when needed. 

3. Professional Rack & Stack

Our dedicated Data Centre Installers manage the precise installation of equipment, adhering to local regulations and reducing setup times. Our installation and commissioning services follow stringent schedules and checklists to eliminate delays and errors, ensuring everything is operational from day one, just like what you would experience at a Formula 1 pitstop. 

4. Full Data Centre Migration Support

We offer comprehensive migration support spanning from planning through to execution, reducing risks associated with the relocation of live infrastructure. Our change management processes facilitate scalable and efficient transitions, with minimum disruption to existing operations. 

5.  Ongoing Asset Management and Decommissioning

Our sustainable practices ensure efficient decommissioning, prolonging the lifecycle of assets responsibly. Real-time tracking of inventory and assets reduces downtime and prevents loss or duplication, while our decommissioning and recycling strategies are environmentally responsible and compliant with all regulations. 

Plan Your Next Data Centre Project with Confidence 

Contact ATC to ensure your next project runs seamlessly, backed by the expertise and comprehensive data centre logistics solutions needed for success and no headaches. 

Lize Simon 

Head of Commercial & Account Director