Drive-in rack systems provide a low-budget and high-density storage solution for customers with lower SKU counts. Drive-in rack systems load from the back to the front (First-In Last-Out) as the forklift literally drives into the rack system, loads the pallet onto rails, and backs out of the storage rack system. As the system is loaded rear to front, it must be unloaded front to rear.
Drive-In systems reduce the number of aisles required in a rack warehouse. It is frequently used in cold storage applications, where the cost of (refrigerated) volume is at its highest and requires the most return on investment (more density).
The drive-in rack is limited by the warehouse management system and its ability to slot pallet locations. Utilization is typically low due to honeycombing and the drive-in rack is subject to more abuse due to the constant movement of forklifts in and out of the storage rack. It is also a system that can require a pallet to be handled multiple times before shipping. If multiple SKUs or manufacture dates are stored in a bay, handling the product multiple times can lead to product damage.
How does the drive-in rack system work?
Drive-in pallet racking provides maximum storage capacity using the minimum amount of space. It is particularly suited to store a very large quantity of the same product. Loading and unloading are undertaken by means of counterbalance trucks or reach trucks that drive down each lane into the racks.
Two management systems are available:
(1) The drive-In System, with only one access aisle;
(2) The drive-Through System, with access to the load from both sides of the rack.
This storage racking system is most suitable for manufacturers of products that are produced in batch, or in warehouse operations where there are limited products SKU and pallets cannot be safely blocked or stacked. Frequently used in cold stores (refrigeration and freezing) which require maximum use of space for the storage of products at a controlled temperature.