Choosing the right racking type comes down to three factors — stock turnover, the need to access every pallet, and available floor space. Here is an overview of the types we work with most frequently.
Selective (Standard)
The most versatile solution, and the majority of warehouses get by with it. Direct access to every pallet, any product mix, beams adjustable every 50 mm. Heights up to 12 m as standard, and even higher with VNA (Very Narrow Aisle) trucks.
Manufacturers we work with: Jungheinrich, SSI Schäfer, Dexion, Mecalux, Stow, BITO, HEMECO and others. Each has its own upright profile and beam connection type — parts are not interchangeable between manufacturers. More about pallet racking installation
Drive-In
The forklift drives into the lane and pallets rest on guide rails. One SKU per lane, depth typically 6-15 pallets. Space utilisation is significantly higher than selective, but the system is LIFO only — the last pallet stored is the first one out. Installation is several times more demanding than selective racking because verticality tolerances are tighter (H/750 versus H/1000) and guide rail alignment must be precise — the forklift travels through the lane with minimal side clearance. More about drive-in systems
Shuttle (Satellite)
An electric carrier moves pallets inside the lane automatically; the forklift does not enter. Depth up to 40 pallets, supports both FIFO and LIFO, and minimises structural damage. Ideal for freezer warehouses where you want to limit the time people spend in sub-zero temperatures. The load-bearing structure is drive-in racking with rails — rail installation is the main time driver because the tolerance on the distance between rails is extremely tight. More about shuttle systems
Push-Back and Gravity
Push-back racking works on the principle of inclined rails with carts. Depth of 2-6 pallets, operation from one side, LIFO. Faster cycle times than drive-in and lower risk of racking damage, as the forklift does not enter the lane.
Gravity (flow) racking uses inclined roller conveyors — pallets travel from the loading end to the picking end. Strict FIFO, depth up to 20 pallets. Braking rollers regulate speed. Installation is the most complex of all pallet racking types.
Cantilever and Mobile
Cantilever racking is designed for long materials — pipes, profiles, timber, panels. Available in single-sided or double-sided configurations. Due to the high overturning moment, anchoring uses chemical anchors or base plates. More about cantilever racking
Mobile racking sits on powered mobile bases with electric drives. It eliminates fixed aisles — only the aisle currently in use is open. Requires floor-mounted rails and a specific installation sequence. More about mobile racking
Comparison Table
| Parameter | Selective | Drive-In | Shuttle | Push-Back | Gravity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Space utilisation | 40-45 % | 80-85 % | 80-90 % | 60-70 % | 70-80 % |
| Pallet access | Every pallet | Front only | Front only | Front only | Front only |
| FIFO / LIFO | Both | LIFO | Both | LIFO | FIFO |
| Max. depth | 1 | 15 pallets | 40 pallets | 6 pallets | 20 pallets |
| Damage risk | Low | High | Very low | Low | Low |
How to Choose
Many SKUs and the need to access every pallet — selective. Few SKUs and maximum capacity — drive-in or shuttle. If FIFO is required — gravity, shuttle in bidirectional mode, or drive-through. For freezer environments, shuttle is ideal because people spend minimal time inside. In larger warehouses, it is common to combine multiple types — selective for picking, drive-in for bulk storage.
FAQ
Can you mix racking from different manufacturers?
Within the same warehouse, yes. Within the same racking block, no — upright profiles and beam locks are proprietary. Each manufacturer (Jungheinrich, Dexion, SSI Schäfer, Mecalux, Stow…) has its own system.
Can selective racking be converted to drive-in?
No — these are fundamentally different structures. The existing racking must be dismantled and a new system installed.
JTB STORAGE — warehouse racking installation across Europe. Contact us for a no-obligation consultation.