Double Deep Pallet Racking

What Is Double Deep Pallet Racking?

Double deep pallet racking lets you store pallets two deep in each position using a reach or deep-reach forklift. It works like selective racking, but it’s built in back-to-back rows, so you can place one pallet behind another. You can also set it up three pallets deep if you need more storage density. It doubles (or triples) your storage capacity in the same footprint by reducing aisles. You can easily choose your preferred depth in our rack builder tool.

When to Use Double Deep Racking

Double-deep racks are best when:

• You have a lot of the same product but fewer SKUs
• You don’t need instant access to every pallet, and your inventory follows LIFO – last pallet in, first out.
• If your team already uses forklifts, upgrading to double-deep is easy. Starting from scratch, use deep-reach trucks with extendable forks.

Double Deep Racking works great in cold storage – you can pack more pallets into tight spaces and keep temps steady.

How to Choose Your Depth: 2 Deep vs 3 Deep

Most customers go with a 2-deep setup — it doubles storage density while still giving 50% direct pallet access (the front pallet is always available).

Choose 3-deep only if:

• You store very high volumes of identical SKUs.
• You have limited floor space and can accept ~33% selectivity.
• Your forklift fleet includes deep-reach trucks capable of safely handling 3-pallet depths. Note: 3-deep systems need careful load planning and stricter LIFO control. Always double-check your forklift reach capacity and aisle width with your operations team.

How Does Double Deep Pallet Racking Work?

Your team uses a deep-reach forklift to access the back pallet. They load the rear pallet first, then place another in front. When picking, you pull the front pallet first. The reach truck can extend its forks to grab the rear one when needed. In 3-deep setups, the sequence is extended: load position C → B → A; unload A → B → C.

You can use telescopic forks, pantograph kits, or scissor-mast lifts. With the right setup, you can even carry two pallets at once. Always check with your forklift manufacturer before modifying equipment.

Double Deep Racks vs Other Rack Types

Selective racking gives full access but takes more space. Double-deep racks pack more pallets into the same area but limit access to the back pallet – roughly 50% selectivity (33% for 3-deep).

You cut aisle space in half compared to single-deep racks, so you can fit more pallets. It’s a LIFO system – last in, first out – so plan stock rotation accordingly.

Want to see how it stacks up? Check the comparison table below.

Industries That Use Double Deep Racks

Double-deep racks fit all kinds of warehouses.

• Distribution centers: move bulk shipments fast.
• 3PLs: store client SKUs in large quantities.
• Cold storage: keep frozen pallets compact and maintain airflow.
• Manufacturers: store raw materials or finished products in big batches.

In short, any operation with lots of the same SKU – food, beverages, automotive parts – can benefit.

We’ll Handle It All

Request a layout or quote, and we’ll take it from there. We’ll reach out to confirm your needs, calculate what fits, design the layout, deliver the racks, and get everything installed – fast, safe, and right. All you need to do is submit the form or give us a call at 503-640-5666.