Push-Back Racking Systems
Push-back racking is the smart choice for businesses storing medium-to-high volumes of the same product. Lanes hold multiple pallets deep, forklifts load from a single aisle, and pallets roll forward automatically as stock is removed.
What is push-back racking?
Push-back racking is a gravity-fed pallet storage system designed for last-in, first-out (LIFO) flow. Each pallet sits on a wheeled cart that moves along inclined rails.
As you load a new pallet, it gently pushes the previous ones further into the lane. When the front pallet is removed, the next one rolls forward, ready for pickup, all from a single aisle. Forklifts never drive into the rack.
This compact design helps you store up to 90% more pallets in the same footprint without extra aisles or special handling equipment. It suits cold storage, manufacturing, FMCG and 3PL.
Why push-back racking makes business sense
Store more in the same space
2 to 6 pallets deep per lane dramatically improves pallet positions per square metre.
Faster loading and retrieval
All handling happens from the front, and pallets roll forward automatically.
No special forklifts needed
Use your existing standard forklifts; no guided or narrow-aisle equipment.
Safer handling, less damage
Forklifts never enter the rack, and each pallet is individually supported.
Energy efficient in cold storage
Less aisle space in temperature-controlled rooms means a smaller volume to cool.
Engineered for efficiency and safety
Depth options
2 to 6 pallets deep per lane.
Load capacity
Typically 1000 to 1500 kg per pallet.
Inclined rails
Gravity-driven for smooth pallet flow.
Wheeled carts
Durable nested carts with controlled movement.
Safety features
Pallet stops, entry guides, cart locks and upright protection.
Pallet and forklift compatibility
1200 x 1000 mm SA standard pallets and standard forklifts.
Finish
Powder-coated for ambient use, or galvanised for cold storage and outdoor environments.
Best suited for these industries
- Cold storage and food distribution: maximises freezer space, and suits frozen meat, seafood or ready meals stored in batches.
- FMCG: well suited to bottled drinks, canned goods and high-volume retail products.
- Manufacturing: holds raw materials or finished goods ready for dispatch or production.
- Third-party logistics: dense storage for client-specific lines, increasing pallet positions per client.
- Wholesale and bulk distribution: stores high volumes of selected products, keeping order fulfilment fast and efficient.
Why choose Spode for your racking
End-to-end service
From the first consultation and warehouse layout design through to installation and aftercare, Spode manages the entire process. We also carry out on-site inspections to help you make the right decisions.
Tailored to your site
No two warehouses are the same. We design push-back racking around your load types, forklift access, ceiling height and stock turnover, so the layout fits how you actually work.
Quality and safety assurance
Our push-back racking systems are built to recognised racking standards using high-grade steel and precision finishes. Every rack is installed by trained teams and checked for performance and safety before handover.
Local support, nationwide reach
With teams in Durban and Johannesburg, Spode responds quickly across South Africa. Whether you are expanding your storage or upgrading an existing system, the same team stays with the project.
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Equipment for a racked warehouse
Racking itself is designed, supplied and installed to your floor plan. The handling equipment that works alongside it is stocked online.
Get a push-back racking quote. No obligation.
Tell us about your space, loads and workflow. We'll design a system around them and send a free, no-obligation quote, anywhere in South Africa.