What is shuttle racking?
Compact storage with maximum use
of your warehouse space
Shuttle racking is a semi-automated storage system in which pallets are placed or retrieved deep within the racking by a powered shuttle cart — without the forklift needing to drive into the racking. This increases safety and drastically increases storage density.
The system is ideal for large volumes of a limited number of item types. Virtually no intermediate aisles means maximum use of your floor space. It can be configured as LIFO (Last In, First Out) or FIFO (First In, First Out), as needed.
Cor Verkolf handles the entire process — from design to installation — your specialist in warehouse fit-out for more than 40 years.
Free, no-obligation advice
Would you like to know whether shuttle racking suits your situation? Get in touch — we’re happy to think along with you.
Benefits
Benefits of shuttle racking
- Up to 80% more storage capacity
- Faster pallet handling
- Less risk of collision damage
- FIFO and LIFO configurable
The major advantage of shuttle racking is the combination of high storage density and fast pallet handling. Because aisles are largely eliminated and the shuttle takes over the movement work, considerably more storage capacity is possible within the same floor area. Forklifts no longer need to enter the channels, which reduces both cycle times and the risk of damage to products and the structure.
An additional benefit is the flexibility in operating strategy. Depending on your products and stock rotation requirements, you can choose FIFO (first in, first out) or LIFO (last in, first out). For companies in the food & beverage sector — where shelf life plays a role — the FIFO option is often the deciding factor in practice.
More than 40 years of craftsmanshipIn-house installation team from Raamsdonksveer — from design to handover
Our approach
Our approach to
shuttle racking projects
- 01Site visit and analysisWe map out the warehouse layout, product flows and operational requirements, and analyse together with you where optimisation is possible.
- 02Custom technical designBased on the analysis, we draw up a complete technical design: with calculated load capacities, optimal channel dimensions and the right shuttle configuration.
- 03Installation from RaamsdonksveerThe installation is carried out by our own installation team. With more than 40 years of experience, we plan installations to have as little impact as possible on your operations.
- 04Handover, inspection and aftercareAfter handover, we provide full instruction for your staff and arrange the mandatory BMWT inspection for safety certification. After that, we remain available for service, maintenance and expansions.
Applications
Who is shuttle racking suitable for?
Cold stores and freezer warehousesCompact storage at low temperatures is essential. Shuttle racking maximises storage capacity and minimises door-open time.
Distribution centres and logisticsShuttle racking is ideal for large volumes with a limited number of SKUs. Fast throughput, high density and reliable FIFO rotation.
Manufacturing and industryBuffer and finished-product storage directly next to the production line. Store large quantities in an organised way without losing valuable floor space.
Wholesale and retailStore seasonal products and bulk goods efficiently. Room for diversity in your product range without sacrificing storage capacity.
About us
Why choose Cor Verkolf?
Cor Verkolf is part of the Verkolf Groep — the only organisation in the Netherlands that manufactures pallet racking itself, from its own production facility in Raamsdonksveer. This means design, production, delivery and installation are entirely in-house, without dependence on external parties. This gives us control over quality and planning, and gives you a single point of contact throughout the entire project.
With more than 40 years of experience in racking construction and warehouse fit-out, we know the practical challenges involved in these kinds of projects. References such as Bunzl, GAMMA, Bouwmaat and Pontmeyer illustrate the breadth and scale of the projects we carry out. We give honest advice about alternatives and always look for the solution that best suits your situation.
BunzlGAMMABouwmaatPontmeyer
Combinations
Often combined with shuttle racking
For complete warehouse optimisation, customers often combine shuttle racking with additional systems that further increase efficiency in other zones.
- Warehouse safetyBMWT inspections are mandatory for all industrial racking systems. We handle both the initial certification and periodic inspections for ongoing compliance.
- Storage expansionConventional pallet racking in other warehouse zones complements the shuttle area for products that are moved less frequently. This creates an optimal mix of automated and manually accessible storage.
- Project managementProfessional project advice from the initial exploration through to handover ensures a smooth implementation. Our specialists guide you through every phase and ensure delivery within the agreed schedule and budget.
Frequently asked questions
Everything about shuttle racking
What is shuttle racking and when is it the best choice?
Shuttle racking is a semi-automated storage system in which electric shuttle carts move pallets within racking channels. It’s the best choice for high-frequency pallet movements, limited warehouse space and large quantities of identical products. The system combines high storage density with efficient throughput, making it ideal for distribution centres and companies with intensive stock rotation.
Can shuttle racking be custom-made for my warehouse?
Yes. Every pallet shuttle racking system is fully tailored to your specific situation. We analyse the warehouse layout, product dimensions, weights and operational requirements. The design takes into account the existing building, floor load and future expansion possibilities. Customisation is standard in our approach.
What are the maximum weights and dimensions for shuttle racking?
A pallet shuttle system can handle pallets up to 1,500 kg each, depending on the shuttle configuration chosen. Common pallet dimensions are 800×1,200 mm and 1,000×1,200 mm. Channel depth and racking height are project-dependent and are tailored to your situation in the design. We always match all capacities to your products and operational requirements.
What does shuttle racking cost and what factors determine the price?
The cost depends on the racking dimensions, the number of shuttle units, the complexity of the system and project-specific requirements. Key pricing factors include storage capacity, channel depth, racking height and weight requirements. Installation and certification are included in our prices. We’re happy to prepare a free quote based on your specific requirements.
What is the difference between shuttle racking and drive-in racking?
With drive-in racking, the forklift itself drives into the channel to place or retrieve pallets. With shuttle racking, an electric cart does that work, while the forklift stays at the start of the channel. This results in less forklift traffic within the racking, shorter cycle times and less risk of damage to the structure. Which system is the better fit depends on your throughput speed, product range and budget.
Do you have a question about shuttle racking?Our specialists are ready to give free, no-obligation advice.
Get in touch
Interested in shuttle racking for
your warehouse?
Tell us about your situation — the dimensions of your warehouse, the type of products you store and your desired capacity.