At a glance
System comparison
| Attribute | Selective | Drive-In | Push-Back |
|---|---|---|---|
| Density | Low | Highest | High |
| Selectivity | 100% | First pallet only | First pallet only |
| Rotation | FIFO or LIFO | LIFO | LIFO |
| SKUs per lane | 1+ | 1 (max 2) | 1 per lane |
| Damage risk | Low | Highest | Moderate |
| Indicative cost / position | $ | $$ | $$$ |
Selective
Selective racking — when it's right
Selective is the workhorse of Australian warehousing. Every pallet is independently accessible from the aisle, which suits high-SKU operations, FIFO requirements and mixed pick-and-bulk profiles. It's also the easiest to modify, audit and re-certify under AS 4084:2023.
- 100% pallet accessibility for FIFO or LIFO operations.
- Lowest cost per bay, fastest to install.
- Easiest system to re-certify after relocation.
- Compatible with the broadest range of forklift types.
Drive-In
Drive-in racking — when it's right
Drive-in racking eliminates aisles between pallet lanes by allowing the forklift to drive into the rack structure. Use it for high-volume, low-SKU storage where every pallet in a lane is the same product (cold storage, beverage and seasonal goods are typical).
Damage profile
Push-Back
Push-back racking — when it's right
Push-back uses inclined rails with rolling carts so each pallet slides forward as the front pallet is removed. It delivers most of the density of drive-in without the forklift entering the rack — typically 2–6 pallets deep, LIFO. A good middle ground for medium-density, medium-SKU operations.