Mehrfachtiefe Lagerung
Also: Mehrfachtiefe Lagerung, Mehrfachtiefe Lagerung Palette, Doppeltiefe Lagerung, Doppeltiefe Regalllagerung, Mehrfachtiefes Lager, Tiefe Lagerung, Mehrreihige Lagerung
AI-generated
Multi-deep storage refers to a storage strategy in which load units such as pallets are placed two or more rows deep within a rack bay or storage block. This increases space utilization while reducing the number of aisles required.
Key facts
- Multi-deep storage increases warehouse space utilization, as less aisle space is required to serve the same number of storage locations.
- The access concept – LIFO or FIFO – is a key factor in determining which items and assortment structures are suitable for multi-deep storage.
- A capable WMS is a prerequisite for correctly managing depth positions and reliably controlling retrieval sequences.
- Automated variants such as shuttle or satellite vehicle systems increase access flexibility, but require significantly greater capital investment than manual solutions.
What is multi-deep storage?
In multi-deep storage, load units – typically pallets, but also containers or cartons – are not placed in a single position within a rack bay, but stored two, three, or more positions deep. The aisle area within the warehouse is reduced, as fewer travel routes are needed to serve the same number of storage locations. Common variants include double-deep storage (two positions), triple-deep storage, and block storage solutions with even greater depth.
A fundamental distinction is made between static systems such as drive-in racking or flow racking, and dynamic systems such as satellite vehicle racking or shuttle systems, which automate access to rear positions. The most suitable system depends on the SKU structure, turnover frequency, and the required access flexibility.
How does multi-deep storage work in practice?
The key difference from single-deep storage lies in the access concept: with double-deep storage using a narrow-aisle forklift or double-deep reach truck, the front pallet must be moved to access the one behind it. This restricts the free assignment of items and requires careful storage location management within the warehouse management system (WMS).
- LIFO principle: Drive-in racking and simple block storage variants operate on a last-in-first-out basis. Items with short shelf lives or strict batch requirements are problematic in these systems.
- FIFO principle: Flow racking enables first-in-first-out, as goods are loaded and retrieved from opposite sides. This is often mandatory for items subject to best-before date requirements.
- Shuttle and satellite vehicles: These automated variants allow a more flexible access strategy, but require greater capital investment and rely on dependable control software.
Regardless of the variant, the WMS must have visibility of all occupied depth positions and actively manage the retrieval sequence. Without accurate inventory tracking, time-consuming searches and retrieval errors can quickly negate any efficiency gains.
What should be considered when selecting a system?
The decision on depth and system type depends on several factors. First, consider how many pallets per item are typically stored simultaneously: a limited SKU range with high quantities per SKU favors deeper storage. Conversely, a wide SKU range with low quantities per item can lead to blockages and wasted trips if storage depth is too great.
Additional criteria include batch and best-before date requirements, the structural characteristics of the warehouse, the available handling equipment, and the capital investment budget. Technical capabilities vary considerably between vendors for shuttle systems, making a thorough system comparison advisable. Maintenance requirements for automated systems and spare parts availability should also be factored into the business case.
Related terms
- ABC-Analyse
ABC analysis is a method for classifying items, vendors, or processes into three priority classes (A, B, C) based on their economic significance. It forms the basis for differentiated decision-making in warehousing, inventory management, and procurement.
- Auslagerung
Retrieval refers to the physical process by which goods or load units are removed from a storage area and transferred to a downstream process – such as picking or shipping.
- AutoStore-Lagersystem
The AutoStore storage system is a fully automated cube storage system in which robots stack, retrieve, and transport plastic bins across a three-dimensional grid structure to stationary picking stations.
- Automatiklager
An automated warehouse is a fully or partially automated storage system in which the receipt, retrieval, transport and management of storage units are carried out without manual intervention, using conveyor technology, storage and retrieval machines, and a higher-level control software.
- Bestandsführung
Inventory management refers to the system-supported administration and continuous updating of all warehouse and material stocks within a company. It forms the basis for planning, procurement and accounting – and ensures that the book inventory and physical inventory are in agreement at all times.
- Blocklager
A block storage system is a storage method in which load units — typically pallets — are stacked directly on the floor in rows and blocks without any racking structure.
- Bodenlagerung
Floor storage refers to the storage of goods directly on the floor, without the use of racking systems. Pallets, stacks, or marked floor positions serve as the basic structure for area organization.
- Chaotische Lagerhaltung
Chaotic storage is a warehousing principle in which items are not stored in fixed, pre-assigned locations, but are instead dynamically placed in any available, suitable slot in the warehouse. A warehouse management system handles the control and tracking of all storage locations.
- Charge
A batch is a uniquely identifiable quantity of products manufactured or processed under identical conditions. It forms the basis for traceability, quality control, and legally required recall processes throughout the entire supply chain.
- Chargenrückverfolgung
Batch traceability refers to the complete and uninterrupted trackability of products and materials along the supply chain based on their batch assignment. It enables companies to quickly identify and selectively block all affected quantities in the event of a quality issue or recall.