Drive In pallet rack is a highly specialized type of pallet rack meant for high density storage. The application for drive in pallet racks is multiple pallets of the same item (SKU) where pallet selectivity or time sensitivity is not an issue. Drive In pallet rack is named such because the lift truck actually enters, or drives into, the rack structure. The rack structure is specifically design to accept your lift trucks as well your product to be stored.

Drive In pallet rack is considered LIFO storage. The Last pallet In will be the First pallet Out. Conversely, the first pallet stored will be the last pallet picked. This may have an impact on time sensitive or dated inventory and must be carefully reviewed.

Drive In pallet rack has specific design criteria that must be considered before deciding whether it is best suited for your warehouse. The pallets are stored on "rails" instead of beams. These rails are supported by "arms" connected to the upright frames. The rails are fixed at specific dimensions to accommodate one pallet width and allow for clearance of the lift truck. The depth of the system is based on available space and the quantity (and size) of the pallets that will fit the space. The height of the system is limited by the pallet height, building clear height and the max lift of the trucks.

Other important design criteria are the pallets and the product (load) on the pallets. Pallets must be quality hardwood (generally with 5 bottom boards) and a consistent size in order to be safely stored in a drive in rack system. Pallets of poor quality may need the use of a "slave" pallet (placed under the original pallet) in order to be stored in a drive in system. The product must be positioned square and straight on the pallets to avoid damage to the product and hang ups in the rack.

Because the lift equipment enters into the rack structure to place and pick inventory, the rack must be protected from contact with trucks. Floor mounted guide rails with entry radiuses, heavy duty bottom horizontals and rub rails all act to protect the rack system from fork truck abuse. The front upright column should also be reinforced for impact resistance.

Drive In pallet rack systems have a narrow range of usefulness. However, in that range they can be all around the most cost effective high density pallet storage rack.