Experienced and productive warehouse storage systems are integral to properly functioning or running any business. Drive racks are common with the current trend for space savings and a desire for straightforward, high-density storage to enhance stock management. Enter drive-in racking and drive-thru racking — two innovative solutions that are designed to help you maximise your storage density and minimise your real estate usage.
Drive-in racking and drive-thru racking are also operationally comparable in terms of effective use and downfall differences. Differentiating between these two racking systems is critical to selecting the right solution for a particular warehouse and operational strategy.
Through this article, we aim to help warehouse managers or decision-makers discern which warehousing racks can be a viable solution to enhance their operation.
What is Drive-In Racking?
Drive-in racking is a high-density storage system that significantly increases space utilisation by reducing the number of aisles within your warehouse. The system is designed for forklifts to drive straight into the storage lane, with pallets on rails in tight blocks.
Applications in Industrial Space
Drive-in racking is a good option for warehouses with large quantities of items, but low turnover rates. It works on a LIFO principle (Last-In, First-Out). In single-side access, pallets are loaded or unloaded from the same entry point, meaning they are last in, first out regarding removal — the last pallet entered into the system will be the first one removed. It is ideal for housing bulk amounts of the same product and removing them from stock only when necessary.
They are commonly used in:
- Cold Stores: For which space is premium due to expensive storage.
- Bulk Warehouses: That only needs immediate access to some pallets.
Advantages of Drive-In Racking
- Aisle Space Reduction: It reduces the amount of aisle space needed, maximising storage density.
- Budget-Friendly for Bulk Storage: It is best suited for bulk quantities of the same product and minimises demand on any other storage infrastructure.
- Reduces Aisle Width: Its narrow profile and low height require less aisle space, allowing warehouses to devote more floors to storage.
Disadvantages of Drive-In Racking
- Difficult Access to Individual Pallets: Under a LIFO system, pallets are stacked on top of each other, making accessing the ones you need problematic.
- Not Suitable for Quick-Moving Products: Due to single-side entry and the LIFO approach, it is not suited for environments that require frequent access to or rotation of products.
What is Drive-Thru Racking?
Drive-thru racking is a flexible storage system that maximises accessibility and inventory turnover. Unlike drive-in racking, which requires entering from a single side, this style allows forklifts to drive through multiple aisles from one end and out the other, granting higher flexibility to operators with goods flow. It is often used when warehouses require a more dynamic flow.
Applications in Commercial Space
Drive-thru racking is frequently used for applications requiring stock rotation and access. It works on a FIFO (First-In, First-Out) basis. Pallets are loaded on one side and unloaded from the other in a double-sided access manner. This system is ideal for perishable goods and items where stock rotation is crucial.
They are especially ideal for:
- Food and Beverage: Follows FIFO to prevent spoiling of stock while maintaining freshness.
- Perishables: Perfect for businesses that deal with items having a short shelf life and require quick turnover.
Advantages of Drive-Thru Racking
- Stock Rotation (FIFO): Helps in the rotation of stock, using the oldest stock first to minimise waste and spoilage.
- Access from Both Sides: Double-sided access provides flexibility for loading and unloading from either side.
- High-Throughput Items: Ideal for items that require quick retrieval and fast-moving stock.
Disadvantages of Drive-Thru Racking
- Takes Up More Space than Drive-In Racking: Its design requires more floor space, which could be a limiting factor for smaller warehouses.
- Two-Way Forklift Movement = Higher Maintenance: The additional forklift traffic through the racking system increases wear and tear, leading to more maintenance.
What are the Key Differences between Drive-In and Drive-Thru?
| FEATURES | DRIVE-IN RACKING | DRIVE-THRU RACKING |
Access Type |
Single-side access | Double-sided access |
Storage Density |
High (Maximises storage density) | Moderate (Requires more space) |
Ideal Products |
Bulk storage with low turnover | Perishable goods, high turnover items |
Stock Rotation |
LIFO (Last-In, First-Out) | FIFO (First-In, First-Out) |
Space Requirements |
Requires less space (minimal aisle space) | Requires more space (access from both ends) |
Suitability for High Turnover |
Not suitable | Suitable |
How to Choose between Drive-In and Drive-Thru?
Choosing the appropriate racking system for your warehouse is a decision that hinges on several critical factors. Here’s a breakdown of the key considerations to guide your choice between drive-in racking and drive-thru racking:
| FACTORS | DRIVE-IN RACKING | DRIVE-THRU RACKING |
Product Turnover |
Best suited for low-turnover products that don’t require frequent access. The LIFO system means products placed last are accessed first, making it ideal for bulk storage with minimal rotation needs. | Designed for high-turnover items that need efficient stock rotation. The FIFO system ensures that the oldest stock is used first, making it perfect for perishable goods or products with a short shelf life. |
Space Constraints |
If maximising storage density is a priority and you have limited space, this racking system is the way to go. It uses fewer aisles and allows for a denser storage configuration. | Requires more floor space due to its double-sided access. This can be a constraint in smaller warehouses but provides the benefit of greater accessibility. |
Stock Rotation Needs |
Suitable for products that don’t require stringent stock rotation. It’s ideal for items that can be stored for longer periods without spoilage or quality concerns. | Essential for industries where stock rotation is critical. The FIFO system ensures that the oldest inventory is used first, reducing waste and maintaining product quality. |
Forklift Accessibility |
Limited to single-side access, which can be more straightforward but less flexible. Forklifts enter and exit the same way, making manoeuvrability a consideration. | Offers double-sided access, allowing forklifts to load and unload from either end. This provides greater flexibility and efficiency, especially in high-traffic warehouses. |
Rack Customisation |
Typically customised for industries that require high storage density with minimal product turnover. Adjustments can include varying the depth of storage lanes to accommodate different pallet sizes or incorporating rails that support specific weights and types of products. | Customised to enhance accessibility and facilitate efficient stock rotation. This can involve adjusting the racking height and width to fit specific warehouse dimensions and product types, ensuring that the layout supports smooth FIFO operations. |
Maximise Compact Space with Drive Racks from EMTS
While drive-in racking and drive-thru racking are viable heavy duty rack options to install based on product turnover, limited storage space principles, rotation of stock needs, and access to a forklift, other areas must be considered. Each system has its advantages and disadvantages that can effectively enhance your warehouse operations.
The best pallet racking system ultimately depends on the inventory you manage and how it is operated. Choosing the right racking system can contribute to a safe and organised warehouse environment, ensuring long-term success and efficiency in your storage management.
Contact EMTS now for professional advice and elevate your storage strategy!
