Drive-In and Drive-Through pallet racking are essentially the same thing, but with one distinct difference. While construction is, more or less, identical, Drive-Through pallet racking differs in that it is designed to be accessed by forklifts from both ends, whereas Drive-In pallet racking can only be accessed from the front. With this in mind, it is important to consider which design works best for your unique storage needs.
The best way to determine the right pallet rack system for your operation is based on the method of inventory control you utilize. Drive-In pallet racking is ideal for the last in, first out (LIFO) storage method; Drive-Through pallet racking provides the option of utilizing the first in, first out (FIFO) storage method.
The LIFO method is used when only one point of access is available, such is the case with drive-in pallet racking. The last pallet placed in the row, therefore, must be the first pallet to be removed. This is a great storage method if you are storing large amounts of like-items or non-perishable items.
The FIFO storage method makes use of having two points of access, wherein a pallet is loaded on one end, pushed through to the other end where it can later be taken out. This storage method is ideal when dealing with perishable items or items with defined shelf lives. Once these options have been considered, the choice of which pallet racking system works best for you should be a clear decision.
There are two types of drive in pallet rack: cold rolled and structural. Structural drive-in pallet racks are made from hot steel which is rolled to form I-beams and C channels.
Structural steel rack is more expensive than cold rolled but can handle forklift abuse, which is important to consider when using drive-in or drive-through pallet racking as it is designed to be loaded by lift vehicles. Structural steel rack frames can usually be repaired instead of replaced. Structural drive-in pallet rack also holds more weight than cold rolled.
Cold rolled drive-in rack begins as a piece of flat steel. It is processed through a machine which rolls the steel into the desired form. This type of rack uses less steel which reduces the cost. Cold rolled rack is easily damaged when hit, therefore, it’s recommended that you use column protectors and/or end of aisle rack guards.
American Surplus Inc. with over 30 years in the industrial storage and material handling industry stocks used drive-in/through rack from numerous manufacturers including Frazier, Interlake, Steel King, Unarco, Ridg-u-Rak, and Mecalux. Design and installation of used drive-in/through pallet rack is offered nationwide through American Surplus. We will send one of our teams of trained professionals directly to your warehouse to handle the installation of your drive-in or drive-through system; we can even help you design it by offering full CAD service.
Our used pallet racking is a fraction of the cost of new and is in great working condition. All of our used equipment is inspected before purchase to ensure that and you will not compromise safety or quality when buying used from ASI. We will work with you to determine the best style of racking to suit your material handling needs.
