Streamlined warehouse management depends primarily on optimizing storage space and ensuring convenient access to products. Two common methods for achieving this balance are drive-in and drive-through racking systems. These systems provide distinct benefits and cater to different storage needs, but they have a common goal of enhancing storage density by cutting down on aisle space. Grasping the distinctions between these categories is vital for businesses looking to improve their warehouse operations.

Drive-In Pallet Racking Systems

Drive-in storage solutions are noted for their deep storage lanes that enable forklifts to maneuver directly into the rack structure to retrieve palletized goods. These systems are created for high-density storage of homogeneous products with lower turnover. Drive-in racks consist of continuous rows of uprights and rails, with each lane holding multiple pallets situated one in front of the other.

The primary benefit of drive-in solutions is that they have a single access point at the front of the rack, where forklifts enter and retrieve pallets. This layout enables a last-in, first-out (LIFO) inventory scheme, where the most recently stored items are retrieved first, making drive-in systems best suited for storing non-perishable items.

Drive-Through Pallet Racking Systems

Drive-through pallet racking solutions share similarities with drive-in configurations but they have entry and exit points on both ends of the rack instead of just one. This allows forklifts to enter from one side to load or unload goods and exit from the other side. Different from drive-in systems, drive-through racks support a first-in, first-out (FIFO) inventory scheme, where the oldest stock is accessed first. This makes them ideal for operations with a rapid turnover rate or for warehouses that value product rotation.

Increasing Warehouse Storage Density

Both drive-through and drive-in storage solutions are great for optimizing storage density by minimizing aisle space. Traditional storage designs demand expansive aisles for lift truck operability, but drive-in and drive-through racks can reduce the number of aisles required in a facility. By allowing forklifts to pick goods directly from within the rack footprint, these configurations make more efficient use of all possible space within the facility.

More efficient aisle space leads to expanded storage potential within the same footprint. Warehouses can stock a larger number of products without expanding their physical capacity, making drive-in and drive-through racking systems economical solutions for businesses looking to boost their storage capacity.

Choosing the Right System

When selecting between drive-through and drive-in designs, warehouses must consider variables such as inventory particularities, product rotation, and inventory handling needs. Drive-in racks are ideal for storing larger numbers of homogeneous goods with low rotation, while drive-through options are suitable for warehouses with a higher inventory turn rate or those that prioritize product rotation.

Drive In / Drive Through Rack Near Me

To get more information on your options, reach out to a warehouse equipment expert at Raymond West today.

Raymond West's Ontario, California facility serves parts of Los Angeles County and San Bernardino County, including Ontario, Fontana, Rancho Cucamonga, Upland, La Verne, San Dimas, Covina, West Covina, Pomona, Diamond Bar, Rowland Heights, Chino, Norco, Eastvale, Corona, Jurupa Valley, San Bernardino, Rialto and all surrounding areas.

Raymond West | Ontario California Material Handling Equipment Supplier

4602 E Brickell St
Ontario, CA 91761
(909) 930-9399