The shuttle is loaded onto the desired lane via a forklift truck and works on either a FIFO (first-in-first-out) or LIFO (last-in-first-out) basis. Once initiated, the shuttle travels down the lane until it reaches the next available pallet position. Once it has located the next available pallet, the hydraulic loading plate activates, securing the pallet on top of the shuttle. The shuttle then retreats back to its home position, ready to be picked at the front of the lane by the forklift truck.

Due to the nature of the setup no specialist materials handling equipment is required to transport the shuttle from one lane to another, meaning a standard reach forklift truck is more than adequate for use with the system. This allows users to save on additional MHE costs that are usually associated with alternate, high-density racking systems.

This semi-automated solution, installed to a 5,000 sq/ft area has made intelligent use of the available warehouse space. Murphy & Son Ltd now have a highly efficient storage system with the capacity for further optimisation via the incorporation of additional shuttle units should the need arise. A future proof solution that will serve the company for many years to come.