Drive In pallet rack has specific design criteria that must be considered before deciding whether it is best suited for your warehouse. The pallets are stored on “rails” instead of beams. These rails are supported by “arms” connected to the upright frames. The rails are fixed at specific dimensions to accommodate one pallet width and allow for clearance of the lift truck. The depth of the system is based on available space, the quantity, and the size of the pallets that will fit in that space. The height of the system is limited by the pallet height, building clear height and the max lift of the trucks.
Other important design criteria are the pallets and the product (load) on the pallets. Pallets must be quality hardwood (generally with 5 bottom boards) and a consistent size in order to be safely stored in a drive-in rack system. Pallets of poor quality may need the use of a “slave” pallet (placed under the original pallet) in order to be stored in a drive in that system. The product must be positioned square and straight on the pallets to avoid damage to the product and hang-ups in the rack.
Because the lift equipment enters into the rack structure to place and pick inventory, the rack must be protected from contact with trucks. Floor mounted guide rails with entry radiuses, heavy-duty bottom horizontals and rub rails all act to protect the rack system from fork truck abuse. The front upright column should also be reinforced for impact resistance.
Drive In pallet rack systems have a narrow range of usefulness. However, in that range, they can be all around the most cost-effective high-density pallet storage rack.
What are the advantages of Drive-In Pallet Rack?
Drive-in / drive-thru racking can utilize either structural channel or bolted tubular uprights
Load rails are constructed of durable structural angle steel.
Load rails feature a flared entry design, allowing for easier bay access.
Space-saver low profile arms increase clearance and decrease possible product damage.
Welded rail stops prevent loads from being pushed off and improve safety.
