Push back pallet racking is one of many different types of pallet racking that offers a storage solution unique to the needs of a given situation. When considering warehouse storage solutions, it’s important to use the right type of racking to suit storage needs, rather than adapt storage needs to suit racking. And push back pallet racking is one of these options.

Push back pallet racking allows for dense pallet storage by storing pallets multi-deep. In order to load the next pallet onto the racking, a forklift simply pushes the already loaded pallet back. When unloading, the racking is on a slight decline, allowing pallets in the back to slide forward. This makes push back pallet racking a good solution for dense pallet storage while also allowing for fast and easy pallet unloading. The other advantage here is that specialised forklifts don’t need to be used to load and unload push back pallet racking; they’re only require to be able to reach on pallet deep.

Since the pallets on push back racking easily slide forward or back as needed, there’s almost no limit to how deep pallets can be stored. The only limit comes to space and the ability of the forklift to push the racking. This gives the potential for very dense pallet storage.

Another advantage to push back pallet racking is that it can often be more selective than other forms of multi deep pallet racking like drive-in racking, which also allows for multi deep storage. However, drive-in pallet racking requires rows and columns to be cleared to access pallets at the back, meanwhile, push back pallet racking can clear one row at a time. This means that, although push back pallet racking usually works best with multiple pallets of the same SKU, those SKUs only need to share a single row of racking.

Drawbacks To Push Back Pallet Racking

As already mentioned, it’s important to use the right kind of racking for a particular storage situation. And there are  a lot of types of racking to choose from. What this means is that push back pallet racking isn’t always the best option. It’s good, solid racking, but should only be used in situations where it’s warranted.

The biggest drawback to push back pallet racking is that it’s first in, last out storage. Since pallets at the back get blocked in, everything needs to come out before the first loaded pallet comes out. This isn’t a problem in storage situations that don’t risk stock spoiling, or if there’s high enough stock rotation that it doesn’t matter, but it’s still something to consider.

That being said, lower selectivity and first in last out storage is common in most types of multi deep racking. So, while it’s a drawback when compared to selective pallet racking, it’s usually not a deal breaker for warehouses looking for dense storage.

Another concern with push back pallet racking is the storage of more fragile goods. Since pallets slide forward on the racking, very fragile goods may become damaged. Of course the racking is designed so that the pallets don’t slide too quickly, but pallets that contain goods that require an extreme amount of care may not be suitable for push back pallet racking.

Is Push Back Pallet Racking Right For You?

The type of pallet racking to use in your warehouse will depend on the exact storage situation at hand and what’s required. A lot of business choose to use a denser form of pallet racking in order to save on warehouse space, however, the exact kind of dense pallet racking will depend on the warehouse’s needs, how many pallets it has of each SKU, stock rotation, and more.

Push back pallet racking definitely should be considered if a dense storage solution is needed, but it’s also important to consider other solutions as well. But that’s where we come in. We’re happy to give you the advice you need to decide what racking is best. Contact us today.