High-Density Drive-In Pallet Racking Systems Working Procedure For Warehouse Storage​

In a drive-in pallet racking system, multiple pallets are stored on rails that are perpendicular to the main aisles on a Last-in/First-out(LIFO) basis. These continuous rails, as we have mentioned before, are supported by single or double corbels connected to the upright frames, where pallets can be placed or picked by forklifts.

In another word, the forklifts have to drive into the structure to load and unload pallets. With this special operation process, there are some design criteria that are worth your attention.

Specifications of Drive-in Pallet Racks

First of all, the dimensions of the pallets (width, depth, height) should be considered when the rails are engineered. Please make sure that the pallets would not fall from the rails by setting proper clear between rails and upright frames, as well as choosing the right size for the arms to accommodate specific pallet width. Loaded from the back to the front, products on pallets must be positioned on rails safely and precisely by the proper lift truck, which is compatible with the rack system.

To be specific, you should make sure that the vehicles used can enter the racking system with appropriate clearances between uprights and ground rails. And the depth and height of the system are based on the layout of the building and the type of forklift being used. Particularly, the forklift’s maximum lifting height should cover the highest rail level for satisfying storage and retrieval.

Since forklifts enter and exit the structure frequently, giving additional protection will reinforce the system’s impact resistance. For example, you could use more robust columns and base plates, rub ground guide rails and reinforced upright protectors, etc.

Theoretically, the depth of the lane is unlimited but usually, max 10 pallets deep are recommended for activity efficiency. However, for safety concerns, the design of the 10 pallets' deep drive-in rack is more likely to go for the dual-entry system with five positions each placed back-to-back, instead of the single-entry pattern. In this method, the distance a forklift must travel in the rack has been reduced a lot, thus decreasing the chance of collision or potential danger.