Skip to main content

Drive In Racking

Drive In Racking

Drive in racking is a high density storage system designed to pack the greatest possible quantity of pallets into the smallest possible footprint. By removing the individual access aisles found in conventional pallet racking and replacing them with deep lanes that the fork lift drives directly into, drive in racking can increase storage capacity dramatically, making it the natural choice for cold stores, food and drink production, and any operation handling large volumes of similar product.

High density pallet storage that makes the most of every cubic metre of expensive floor space.

How drive in racking works

Rather than resting on beams, pallets are supported on continuous rails running along each side of a lane. The fork lift truck drives into the lane and places pallets one behind the other, building up depth before moving on to the next lane. Because so much of the floor area is given over to storage rather than aisles, drive in racking typically achieves a far higher density than standard adjustable pallet racking, which is why it is so popular where space is at a premium or where refrigerated and frozen storage makes every cubic metre expensive.

The system usually operates on a last in, first out basis, where the last pallet placed into a lane is the first one removed. This makes it ideally suited to storing large quantities of a single product line or batch, where strict date rotation within a lane is less critical. Drive through variations, accessible from both ends, can also be configured where a first in, first out flow is required.

Built for demanding environments

Drive in racking has to withstand a great deal of handling, so it is engineered to be robust, with heavy duty uprights, reinforced guide rails and column guards to protect against the inevitable knocks of fork lift traffic. Careful design is essential to ensure the system is safe and easy to operate, and we will work closely with you to match lane depth, lane height and entry guides to your pallets, your products and your fork lift trucks.

Every installation is designed and built to SEMA standards by our SEMA trained, CSCS carded installation teams, and as members of CHAS and Constructionline we ensure the whole project is delivered safely and to a high standard. We can also provide rack protection, signage, load notices and an ongoing inspection service to keep your installation safe throughout its working life.

Maximise capacity in cold storage

Drive in racking is especially valuable wherever space is expensive to create and maintain, which is exactly the case in chilled and frozen storage. By eliminating aisles and storing pallets in deep, dense blocks, the system makes the most of every cubic metre of refrigerated volume, reducing the running costs associated with cooling empty space. We will analyse your throughput, pallet sizes and rotation requirements to determine the optimum lane depth and height, balancing maximum density against easy, safe operation for your fork lift drivers.

Operating throughout the UK and with a strong customer base across Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire and Yorkshire, Peter Samms Equipment has the experience to design drive in systems that maximise your capacity without compromising on safety. Contact us for a free site survey and let us show you how much more you could store.