Drive In vs Drive Thru
Drive In and Drive Thru rack systems are very similar. The primary difference is that Drive In systems are typically installed against a wall. Drive In systems only have one entry point. Drive Thru systems are open on both the front and back, and therefore have two entry points. This allows forklifts to travel all the way through the rack structure.
How It Works
The Drive In pallet racking system in question is a high-density LIFO storage system. This rack system, and the Drive Thru Rack system, forklifts are able to drive into the rack structure. Pallets are placed on rails that are perpendicular to the main aisles. By reducing the number of aisles (compared to a selective pallet rack system), you can achieve extremely high storage density.
Drive In Rack Benefits
- High-density storage
- Pallets can be stored extremely deep
- Few aisles mean highly efficient space utilization
Drive In Rack Limitations
- LIFO storage system is not ideal for products that are time or date sensitive
- Forklift operators can accidentally damage the racking system
Safety
When used properly, this rack can be as safe as most other systems. However, drive-in rack presents some safety challenges.
- Forklift operators must be extremely careful when driving in the rack structure. Tight clearance means there is little room for error. Operators should be highly experienced and fully trained to load/unload this rack system.
- Because of the tight clearance, damage to racking is common. Damaged racking must be inspected immediately and repaired or replaced.
- In the event a safety incident does occur, the forklift operator could be deep inside the rack structure. This increases the risk to the operator.
Contact us today for a quote on a drive-in or drive-thru rack system.
