Efficient warehouse management is largely based on maximizing storage space and ensuring accessibility to products. Two popular solutions for achieving this balance are drive-in and drive-through racking systems. These systems deliver unique advantages and cater to different warehouse needs, but they share a common goal of boosting storage density by cutting down on aisle space. Comprehending the distinctions between these systems is vital for businesses seeking to enhance their warehouse operations.

Drive-In Pallet Racking Systems

Drive-in pallet racking systems are defined by their deep storage lanes that allow lift trucks to maneuver directly into the rack structure to retrieve palletized products. These systems are created for high-density storage of homogeneous products with lower turnover. Drive-in racks feature continuous rows of rails and uprights, with each lane holding multiple pallets situated one in front of the other.

The primary feature of drive-in configurations is that they have one access point at the rack face, where forklifts ingress and pick up pallets. This configuration facilitates a last-in, first-out (LIFO) inventory plan, where the most recently stored pallets are accessed first, making drive-in racks perfect for stocking non-perishable goods.

Drive-Through Pallet Racking Systems

Drive-through pallet racking solutions share similarities with drive-in systems but they have entry and exit points on both ends of the rack instead of just one. This enables forklifts to enter from one side to load or unload products and egress from the opposite side. Unlike drive-in systems, drive-through designs enable a first-in, first-out (FIFO) inventory management system, where the oldest stock is accessed first. This makes them ideal for facilities with a swift turnover rate or for operations that focus on stock rotation.

Increasing Warehouse Storage Density

Both drive-through and drive-in racking systems excel at optimizing storage density by minimizing aisle space. Traditional racking solutions demand wide aisles for forklift maneuverability, but drive-in and drive-through systems can cut down on the number of aisles needed in a warehouse. By permitting forklifts to retrieve products from inside the rack structure, these systems make more efficient use of all possible space throughout the facility.

The reduction in aisle space leads to enhanced storage capacity within the same footprint. Warehouses can stock a greater number of goods without expanding their physical space, making drive-in and drive-through pallet racking options cost-effective solutions for operations seeking to boost their storage capabilities.

Choosing the Right System

When selecting between drive-in and drive-through racking options, warehouses should evaluate variables such as inventory attributes, turnover rate, and inventory handling needs. Drive-in racks are best suited for storing greater numbers of similar products with infrequent rotation, while drive-through types are suitable for warehouses with a greater inventory turn rate or those that value inventory rotation.

Drive In / Drive Through Rack Near Me

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

Raymond West's Phoenix facility serves the entire Phoenix Metro area, including Phoenix, Tempe, Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, Scottsdale, Glendale, Goodyear, Tolleson, Peoria and all surrounding areas.

Raymond West | Phoenix Material Handling Equipment Supplier

2659 E Magnolia St
Phoenix, AZ 85034
(602) 275-2228