Description
Push-Back Racking is a high-density storage solution that combines the space-saving benefits of Drive-In racking with increased operational speed. Unlike Drive-In systems, the forklift operator stays in the main aisle and does not need to drive into the rack structure. Pallets are placed on a series of nested, telescopic carts that glide on inclined rails. When a new pallet is loaded, it "pushes back" the existing pallets; when a pallet is removed, the remaining pallets automatically slide forward to the front of the rack.
When to Choose Push-Back Racking
This system is the ideal choice for your facility if:
Faster Handling Needed: You want high-density storage but need to reduce the time spent by forklifts driving deep into lanes.
Medium SKU Count: You have more than a few product types and need to access different lanes independently.
LIFO Inventory Flow: Your products are best managed using Last-In, First-Out (LIFO) logic.
Limited Forklift Fleet: You want to increase density without investing in specialized "Man-up" trucks or narrow-aisle equipment.
High Productivity Targets: You need to maximize storage space while maintaining a high volume of pallet movements per hour.
Key Advantages
Reduced Handling Time: Forklifts operate only from the face of the rack, significantly speeding up the loading and unloading process.
Improved Safety: Since forklifts do not enter the rack structure, there is a much lower risk of accidental damage to the uprights or frames.
Better Selectivity: Each lane can hold a different SKU, providing more variety and easier access than a standard Drive-In system.
Space Efficiency: You can store pallets 2 to 6 deep, capturing much more storage space than conventional pallet racking.
Low Maintenance: The gravity-fed cart system is simple, robust, and requires very little upkeep compared to automated systems.
