Warehouse pallet racking with stored inventory

Canada-wide pallet storage

Pallet racking systems built around the load

Compare direct-access, high-density, FIFO, narrow-aisle, and pre-owned racking systems. Start with how the inventory moves, then match the rack to the pallets, lift equipment, and facility.

Choose the operating model

Every system trades between access, density, rotation, equipment, and cost. Use these routes to narrow the family before a layout is developed.

Compare access, rotation, and planning needs

System Useful when Access + rotation Main planning dependency
Selective The operation carries a broad SKU mix and needs frequent pallet access. Direct access to every pallet position. Aisle width, lift equipment, load profile, and building clearances.
Push-Back Several pallets are held for each SKU and aisle access is limited. Typically last-in, first-out within each lane. Lane depth, pallet quality, load compatibility, and cart configuration.
Drive-In Large quantities of fewer SKUs justify deep storage lanes. Lift truck enters the rack; selectivity is reduced. Truck geometry, pallet consistency, lane depth, and operating discipline.
Pallet Flow FIFO rotation and separate replenishment and picking aisles are useful. Gravity-fed first-in, first-out lanes. Pallet condition, lane pitch, speed control, load range, and clearances.
Double-Deep Moderate density gains are needed without moving to deep-lane storage. Two-deep positions reduce immediate access to the rear pallet. Reach depth, truck capability, pallet overhang, and flue space.
Very Narrow Aisle Direct selectivity must be retained while aisle space is compressed. Direct access with purpose-matched lift equipment. Truck and guidance system, floor tolerance, aisle width, and clear height.
Used Racking An existing system is being expanded, matched, or reconfigured. Depends on the selected rack configuration. Compatibility, component condition, provenance, and the final layout.
Carton Flow Case or carton picking benefits from a compact FIFO pick face. Replenishment and picking occur from opposite sides. Carton dimensions, weights, wheel or roller selection, and replenishment path.

The rack is one part of the system

A useful layout begins with the inventory and operating method, not a preferred rack type. These inputs help determine what should be tested in the design.

Review design + layout support
  1. 01

    Loads

    Pallet dimensions, maximum loaded weight, load condition, overhang, and variation.

  2. 02

    Inventory

    SKU count, pallets per SKU, velocity, seasonality, and required stock rotation.

  3. 03

    Facility

    Clear height, column grid, slab, doors, obstructions, egress, and fire-system constraints.

  4. 04

    Handling

    Lift equipment, turning and reach requirements, traffic, replenishment, and pick paths.

  5. 05

    Change

    Expected growth, re-slotting, future equipment, lease timing, and relocation plans.

From layout to the next change

Use one project path for a new system, an expansion, a repair, or the controlled end of an existing installation.

Frequently asked questions

Planning a pallet racking project

Start with what is known. The remaining system and project details can be narrowed from there.

Which pallet racking system is best?

There is no single best system. Selective rack prioritizes direct access, while push-back, drive-in, pallet flow, and double-deep trade some selectivity for density or a specific stock-flow method. The right choice depends on the load, SKU profile, rotation, equipment, and facility.

Is high-density racking always the better use of space?

No. Added density can reduce direct access, require more pallets per SKU, change stock rotation, or require different lift equipment. The useful measure is how the complete operation performs, not how many pallet positions fit on a drawing.

What information is needed for a pallet-racking quote?

Provide the facility city, pallet dimensions, maximum loaded weights, approximate quantities, clear height, lift equipment, photos or drawings, and target timing. If the information is incomplete, submit what is available and the missing questions can be identified.

Can existing or used pallet racking be expanded?

Sometimes. The manufacturer, profile, dimensions, connection style, capacity information, component condition, and intended layout need to be reviewed before used or existing components are added to a system.

Will the project require engineering, permits, or a PSR?

Requirements vary by province, municipality, facility, rack configuration, and project scope. The applicable engineering, permitting, fire-protection, and pre-start review requirements should be confirmed before equipment is ordered or an existing system is altered.

Does Pac Rac support pallet-racking projects across Canada?

Yes. Pac Rac supports pallet-racking projects across Canada. Product availability, delivery, installation, and scheduling are confirmed for the facility location and project scope.

Have a load list, drawing, or just a facility address?

Start with what you know

Send the available project details. Pac Rac can identify the next questions before the system is selected.

Request a quote