Push Back Racking
Push Back Racking Systems
High density without sacrificing aisle access. Store multiple pallets deep with gravity-assisted retrieval from a single aisle.
2–6 Deep
Pallets per lane
LIFO
Charge and discharge from one pick face
Zero Lane Entry
Forklifts never enter the rack
Push back racking is a high-density pallet storage system that stores 2 to 6 pallets deep per lane on nested carts or rollers. When a new pallet is loaded, it pushes the existing pallets back; when removed, gravity brings the next pallet forward to the pick face.
The Right Application
Density Without the Drive-In Tradeoffs
Moderate SKU Count, High Volume Per SKU
When you have more SKUs than drive-in can efficiently serve, but more depth per lane than selective rack provides, push back lands in the right place: individual lane identity with meaningful depth per position.
Operations That Need Aisle Access
Unlike drive-in systems, push back rack is loaded and unloaded from the aisle face, so forklifts never enter the rack. That reduces column damage risk and simplifies forklift traffic patterns in mixed-rack facilities.
Mixed Density Strategies
Push back works well alongside selective rack (reserve storage in push back lanes, active pick in selective bays), giving you density where you need it without sacrificing access where you need that instead.
Technical Specifications
Key Specs & Configuration
| Storage Depth | 2–6 pallets per lane; 3–4 pallets most common |
| Cart / Roller Capacity | Typically 2,500–3,000 lbs per cart level |
| Slope | Engineered incline for gravity feed, approximately 1.5" per cart level |
| Inventory Method | LIFO: loaded and retrieved from the same aisle face |
| Aisle Face Loading | Forklifts never enter the system, reduces column damage risk |
| Best For | Medium SKU count, moderate throughput, density without drive-in risks |
| Cart Mechanism | Nested carts on inclined rails, gravity return, no motors required |
| Cold Storage Compatible | Yes, cart mechanism performs at freezer temperatures |
| Code Notes | Same permit requirements as standard racking; sprinkler clearance requirements may differ by jurisdiction |
Brands We Carry
Built With Industry-Leading Components
How It Works
How Push Back Works
Push back rack uses a cart-and-rail system inside each lane. When a pallet is loaded, it pushes back the pallets already in the lane along inclined rails. When the front pallet is removed, the pallets behind roll forward under gravity. The result is LIFO access from a single aisle face without driving into the structure.
Depth ranges from 2 to 6 pallets per lane depending on your ceiling height and product profile. Each lane is a discrete zone, so SKU segregation is by lane, cleaner than drive-in for operations managing more than a handful of SKUs. Push back is frequently the right answer for operations that are outgrowing selective rack density without the operational profile that justifies drive-in adoption.
Push back requires precise engineering. Cart slope, brake mechanisms, and load capacity all need to be calibrated to your specific pallet weights and product profile. Poorly engineered push back systems result in stuck carts, runaway pallets, and premature wear on the cart mechanism. We engineer every installation for the actual loads your operation handles, and document it.
What You Get
Built In, Not Bolted On
Cart-and-Rail Gravity System
Nested carts run on inclined rails inside each lane. No motors, no maintenance contracts. Gravity handles the return every time.
Aisle-Face Loading Only
Forklifts never enter the system, which reduces column contact risk and simplifies traffic patterns in mixed-rack facilities.
Engineered and Permitted
Full structural engineering, stamped drawings, and permit coordination. Seismic compliance built into the design, not retrofitted.
Best Suited For
Common Applications and Industries
Warehouse Distribution
Reserve storage for high-volume SKUs alongside selective pick faces.
Third-Party Logistics
Lane-based SKU segregation supports multi-client zoning while delivering density gains.
Food & Beverage
Deep lane storage for high-volume date-sensitive SKUs with manageable LIFO rotation.
Cold & Freezer Storage
Conditioned space density with cleaner SKU separation than drive-in.
Related Services
We Handle Design, Installation & Permitting
Dylan and Frank were very professional and helpful during our recent pallet racking installation. Great communications and quick service! In today's world, such great service stands out, and I highly recommend them to any business needing a reliable warehouse racking supplier.
D. Yee
Google Review
Other Systems to Consider
Related Storage Systems
Drive-In Racks
Maximum lane depth for single-SKU bulk storage. Forklift enters the lane to load and retrieve.
Learn More →
Pallet Flow Racks
FIFO gravity alternative when lot rotation or expiration discipline is required.
Learn More →
Selective Pallet Racks
Direct access to every pallet position, the right complement when push back serves reserve storage.
Learn More →FAQ
Common Questions
How does push back compare to drive-in racking?
The key difference is how forklifts interact with the system. In drive-in racking, the forklift enters the lane to place and retrieve pallets, which increases column damage risk. Push back loads and retrieves from the aisle face; forklifts never enter the structure. This makes push back safer for uprights and easier to manage in mixed-rack facilities. Drive-in typically offers more depth per lane (up to 10+ pallets), while push back tops out at 6.
How often do the carts require maintenance?
Push back cart mechanisms are simple: inclined rails with nested carts and no motors. Inspection intervals depend on throughput volume, but most installations require nothing more than periodic visual inspection and occasional lubrication. We document the cart specifications and provide inspection guidance as part of every installation.
Does push back work in cold and freezer environments?
Yes. Cart mechanisms operate at freezer temperatures without issue. We specify materials appropriate for the temperature range, and the gravity-return design has no electrical components that would be affected by condensation or sub-zero conditions.
Want to Increase Density Without Drive-In Complexity?
We'll evaluate your SKU mix and throughput needs to determine if push back is the right fit. Free consultation, no obligation.
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