Pallet racking is an excellent way to improve storage in your warehouse, as they optimize space while maintaining safety and efficiency. Manufacturers use horizontal beams to join them and enhance strength and stability. Depending on the type of beam used, you can buy pallet racks of various strengths to meet your business needs. The most common pallet racks are the drive-in ones which are large and offer storage capacity for bulk and weight items such as cargo.
Below is more on drive-in pallet racks and when and where to use them:
What Are Drive-in Pallet Racks?
The drive-in racking system applies the Last In, First Out (LIFO) inventory system as they have a single entry point that acts as the exit. The last items placed on the rack are the first to come out so they can clear the exit, this being the cardinal difference between them and the drive-through racking system with entry and exit points. It applies the FIFO (First In, First Out) inventory system, where there is a free flow of forklifts and workers.
When And Where to Use Drive-in Racks
Drive-in pallet racks are suitable for several applications. These include:
Minimal Space
Drive-in pallet racks are ideal for your warehouse because they maximize space and height within a warehouse. They are the most logical choice, especially if you have a smaller storage system. They achieve this by reducing the aisle space since they only have an entry point and do not require aisles on both sides.
Storage of Non-Perishable Products
The drive-in racking system is ideal in the case of non-perishable products. Unlike perishable items, non-perishable products do not require timelines for when they should be off the shelves. Non-perishable items such as electronics can take a while on the shelves. Items without an expiry date can use the LIFO inventory system without worrying about them going bad.
Slow-Moving Products
Drive-in pallet racks are also ideal for slow-moving products. If your business involves slow-moving fragile products, you can invest in these products. Usually, there is no rush to remove or store these items. They do not require entry and exit points, making the drive-in pallet system perfect for their storage.
Cold Storage Application
If you are with products that require refrigeration, drive-in pallets are your best option. Refrigerating warehouses is expensive for your business due to the high energy cost needed to maintain even temperatures. You need to maximize this space by using the drive-in pallet racks.
Heavy duty pallet rack manufacturers make these racks small enough to occupy a smaller space than other types, especially since they do not require aisles on both sides. Many of them can fit into a smaller space while maximizing storage, helping you reduce refrigeration costs to relieve your energy consumption burden.
Benefits of Using Drive-in Pallet Racks
Drive-in pallet racks have numerous advantages compared to traditional racks.
Here’s how your business can benefit:
- They Maximize Space: Drive-in pallet rackets are an excellent way to maximize your warehouse space. Their storage capacity can go up to seven times more than the floor stacks and three times more than the traditional racks. Hence you store more even with a smaller warehouse space.
- They Are Highly Durable: Pallet racks are stronger than other types because of galvanized steel used to make them, resisting rust and corrosion. They can hold large and heavy cargo without buckling under the weight.
- They’re Versatile: Pallet racks come in various heights and depths. They can fit different storage requirements depending on the height of your warehouse or store. You can choose the most suitable for your business needs.
- Conducive for Trucks And Forklifts: Pallet racks allow you to leave aisles for trucks and forklifts. These machines are crucial in storing and retrieving items, making the process faster while enhancing safety.
Drive-in pallet racks involve the LIFO inventory system since they have no exit points. They have several applications that benefit your business. For instance, they’re best when you have minimal space or use refrigeration in the warehouse. They are perfect for non-perishable and slow-moving products.
