Drive In & Drive Through Racking System

The drive-in drive-through racking system is a storage solution designed to maximize storage capacity while minimizing the space required. It is commonly used for the storage of homogeneous products in large quantities. In the drive-in configuration, picking and replenishment of goods are performed from one side of the racking system. Forklift trucks drive directly into the racks to access the pallets. This means that the forklifts enter the rack structure and place the pallets on support rails, creating a block of undivided storage space. The last pallet loaded becomes the first pallet to be retrieved (Last-In-First-Out, or LIFO).

On the other hand, the drive-through configuration utilizes both sides of the racking system. Forklifts can enter from one side of the rack and exit from the other side. This allows for more flexibility in terms of access and retrieval of goods. The first pallet loaded can be the first pallet retrieved (First-In-First-Out, or FIFO), depending on the storage and retrieval requirements. Both drive-in and drive-through racking systems are efficient for high-density storage of homogeneous products where stock rotation is not a critical factor. They are particularly suitable for products with a long shelf life or products that require bulk storage.

It’s important to note that the choice between drive-in and drive-through configurations depends on various factors such as the type of products being stored, inventory turnover, and operational requirements. Each configuration has its advantages and considerations, and the selection should be based on the specific needs of the storage facility.