However cube utilisation is much higher. Specially designed forklifts use a variety of doubledeep reach mechanisms to allow easy placement and retrieval of pallets

Storing pallets two-deep for better capacity:

• Double deep racking stores two pallets deep in a single entry rack or four pallets deep in a double entry rack.
• This system requires the use of a special reach fork lift truck with either dual pantograph or sliding fork attachments.
• Double deep racking improves storage density with fewer aisles and more storage locations. This reduces the aisle to rack ratio but also reduces selectivity (FIFO).
• Truck lift heights are limited by load, to about 9 metres.
• The upper levels can be fitted with front to back guide rails to assist the operator to locate and place a pallet at height. The bottom beam must be sufficiently clear of the ground to allow the reach trucks legs to pass under it

Features:

• Storage density increased as rack aisle ratio changes from selective racking.
• 50% immediate accessibility with reasonable stock rotation.
• Good use of all available locations, typically 90%.
• Safe and secure handling with the bottom pallet usually off the ground.
• Ability to use double deep handling equipment for other tasks.
• Best used when each SKU has several pallets.

Advantages:

• Greater use of available headroom
• Good access to 50% stock locations
• Enables stock rotation
• Efficient in operation
• Relatively low cost racking system
• 40% increase in storage capacity