Drive-In Pallet Racking

High-density FILO storage system for large volumes of similar goods

Drive-in pallet racking is a high-density storage system designed to store large quantities of homogeneous products using a First-In, Last-Out (FILO) inventory principle.

By allowing forklifts to drive directly into storage lanes, the system eliminates multiple aisles and maximizes space utilization. Drive-in pallet racking is ideal for operations where storage density is a priority and SKU variety is limited.

Why Drive-In Pallet Racking is Suitable for You

01
Maximum Storage Density

By eliminating aisles between racks, you can significantly increase pallet capacity within the same warehouse footprint.

02
Ideal for Large Volumes of Similar Goods

The system is best suited for operations with low SKU variety and high pallet quantities per SKU.

03
Simple and Cost-Effective Design

Drive-in racking offers a straightforward structure with lower investment compared to automated high-density systems.

04
Well-Suited for FILO Inventory Flow

The FILO logic works effectively for products with stable demand patterns or non-time-sensitive inventory.

How Does Drive-In Pallet Racking Work?

Drive-in pallet racking consists of deep storage lanes where forklifts enter the racking structure to place and retrieve pallets.

Pallets are stored on continuous support rails rather than beams, allowing forklifts to drive into the lane and position pallets at multiple depths. The number of pallets stored per lane depends on lane depth, pallet size, load weight, and available building height.

Since pallets are loaded and retrieved from the same side, the system follows a First-In, Last-Out (FILO) inventory method.

This configuration delivers very high storage density while maintaining a relatively simple operational setup.

System Structure

Drive-in pallet racking systems are built with reinforced components designed to withstand forklift entry and impact, including:

  • Frames – heavy-duty uprights supporting the racking structure
  • Pallet support rails – continuous rails that hold pallets within each lane
  • Top bracing and frame ties – providing overall system stability

Optional safety and protection features include:

  • Upright and rail protectors
  • Guide rails to assist forklift entry
  • Pallet backstops
  • Impact protection at lane entrances
  • Load signage and safety labels

These features help improve operational safety and extend system lifespan.

Explore Our Case Studies

See some selected examples of Drive-In Pallet Racking projects implemented across customer sites.

  • Smart Warehousing with RFID Technology

    Learn more about RFID, including its types and key benefits for smarter warehouse

  • Storeganizer IKEA

    How IKEA Optimized 9,000 SKUs in Limited Space with Storeganizer

    By implementing Storeganizer, IKEA improved density, efficiency, and productivity.

  • Warehouse Management System

    Maximize your WMS Investment: Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

    The 4 common mistakes of using WMS and how to fix it

  • Comprehensive Comparison: Shuttle Racking VS Drive-In Racking

    Reasons why Shuttle Racking might be more suitable than Drive-in Racking

Other Storage Systems

  • Selective Pallet Racking

    Direct pallet access and adjustable for fast-moving and varied SKUs

  • Shuttle Pallet Racking

    Semi-automated racking system for fast and efficient pallet loading and retrieval

  • Very Narrow Aisle (VNA) Racking

    Increase high SKU throughput storage capacity with limited floor area

  • Mobile Pallet Racking

    Double storage capacity with racking systems that move on rails

Talk to Our Experts

Let’s discuss how we can help streamline your warehouse operations and reduce inefficiencies.