Streamlined warehouse management is largely based on maximizing storage space while maintaining accessibility to products. Two popular solutions for achieving this balance are drive-in pallet racking systems and drive-through pallet racking systems. Both systems deliver distinct benefits and serve different warehouse needs, but they possess a common goal of boosting storage density by minimizing aisle space. Comprehending the distinctions between these categories is vital for businesses looking to improve their warehouse operations.

Drive-In Pallet Racking Systems

Drive-in storage systems are noted for their deep storage lanes that enable lift trucks to maneuver directly into the rack structure to access palletized products. These systems are created for high-density storage of similar goods with a low turnover rate. Drive-in racks feature continuous rows of rails and uprights, with each lane storing multiple pallets oriented one behind the other.

The most prominent benefit of drive-in solutions is that they have a single access point on the front of the rack, where forklifts ingress and pick up pallets. This layout supports a last-in, first-out (LIFO) inventory scheme, where newly stored goods are accessed first, making drive-in racks ideal for warehousing goods without expiration dates.

Drive-Through Pallet Racking Systems

Drive-through pallet racking systems resemble drive-in designs but they have access points on both sides of the rack as opposed to just one. This enables forklifts to enter from one side to store or retrieve goods and exit from the opposite side. Different from drive-in systems, drive-through designs facilitate a first-in, first-out (FIFO) inventory scheme, where the oldest items are retrieved first. This makes them ideal for operations with high product turnover or for businesses that value product rotation.

Increasing Warehouse Storage Density

Both drive-in and drive-through racking solutions excel at maximizing storage density by reducing aisle space. Traditional pallet racking designs require expansive aisles for lift truck operability, but drive-in and drive-through racks can cut down on the quantity of aisles needed in a typical storage operation. By enabling lift trucks to retrieve products from inside the rack structure, these systems better utilize all possible capacity throughout the facility.

The reduction in aisle space results in increased storage potential within the same area. Warehouses can stock a greater number of products without growing their physical space, making drive-in and drive-through pallet racking systems cost-effective solutions for businesses aiming to maximize their storage capabilities.

Choosing the Right System

When deciding between drive-through and drive-in pallet racking systems, warehouses should consider factors such as inventory particularities, product rotation, and inventory handling requirements. Drive-in racks are ideal for stocking greater quantities of similar products with infrequent rotation, while drive-through racks are suitable for businesses with a higher inventory turn rate or those that prioritize product rotation.

Drive In / Drive Through Rack Near Me

To find out more about your options, reach out to a warehouse design professional at Raymond West today.

Raymond West's Oxnard / Ventura service area includes Camarillo, Thousand Oaks, Moorpark, Newbury Park, Ventura, Santa Paula, Westlake Village, Simi Valley and all surrounding areas.

Raymond West | Oxnard Material Handling Equipment Supplier

Ventura County, CA
(805) 667-0888