In the world of high-density storage solutions, various options are available for optimizing warehouse space. Among the most popular are Drive In Racking and drive thru racking. While both systems offer significant benefits, we decided over a decade ago to discontinue drive thru racking for several reasons. Let’s explore why and take a closer look at drive in racking, which continues to be a great option for many businesses.
What is Drive Thru Racking?
Drive thru racking is a variation of high-density storage that enables forklifts to enter the racking system from both ends, providing access to inventory from either side. This system operates on a first-in, first-out (FIFO) basis, meaning the first items placed in the system are the first to be retrieved. This makes it ideal for businesses that need to store perishable goods or items with an expiration date, where stock rotation is a priority.
While drive thru racking was widely used in the 1990s, we decided to discontinue offering this system in 2010 due to several key factors.
Why We No Longer Offer Drive Thru Racking
- Structural Stability: Even though Canada lacked a pallet racking design code at the time, NAS Group recognized that drive thru racking did not pass a rational analysis using engineering practices for similar structures. With the implementation of Canada’s new racking design standard, the design process further highlights the structural inadequacies of this system.
- Loading Inefficiency: The original goal was to establish a FIFO system with designated load and unload sides. However, this setup led to inefficiencies like honeycombing, where each lane had to be fully emptied before it could be refilled, creating unusable storage gaps when lanes were only partially unloaded. Additionally, the static handoff process of loading and unloading a tunnel compromised load density within the storage system.
These issues have been addressed through more advanced systems such as pallet flow and pallet shuttle, which can be constructed to meet current design codes.
What is Drive In Racking?
While we no longer offer drive thru racking, drive in racking remains a trusted solution. Drive in racking allows forklifts to enter from one side, but operates on a last-in, first-out (LIFO) basis, meaning the most recently added pallets are the first to be retrieved.
Benefits of Drive In Racking:
- Maximized Space: Optimize space by minimizing aisle width.
- High Storage Density: Best for storing large quantities of similar items with lower turnover.
- Cost-Effective: A practical and affordable option for warehouses prioritizing storage space over frequent access.
- FIFO Compatibility: FIFO is achievable with this system if warehouse management aligns FIFO groups with the storage capacity of each drive-in tunnel.
Drive In Racking in Action
A prime example of drive in racking in action comes from a beverage distributor in Edmonton, AB. We installed a structural drive in racking system with 1,745 pallet positions, dramatically improving their warehouse’s storage capacity and efficiency. This solution helped streamline their operations while optimizing vertical space. Read the full case study here.
Making the Right Choice for Your Warehouse
Choosing the right racking system depends on your specific business needs. Whether you’re focused on high-density storage or looking for a flexible, space-saving solution, drive in racking is an excellent choice for many businesses. If you’re ready to optimize your warehouse space, Contact Us today to discuss the best options tailored to your needs!
