The Radio Shuttle Pallet Racking (Pallet Shuttle) is an advanced semi-automatic storage racking system that utilizes a self-propelled robotic shuttle to transport pallets in and out of deep rack lanes. This solution maximizes storage space to the highest level, significantly improves warehouse efficiency while maintaining reasonable operating costs.
At Vinatech Group – the leading manufacturer and provider of warehouse racking solutions in Vietnam – we offer high-quality Radio Shuttle systems, integrated with durable and stable robots that operate reliably in both ambient and cold storage environments. It is ideal for businesses requiring high storage density and fast inbound/outbound operations.
1. Structure of Radio Shuttle Racking
The system combines traditional load-bearing racking structures with modern automation equipment:
Load-bearing frame: Omega uprights and sturdy beams, capable of handling heavy loads (typically 1000–3000 kg per pallet or more).
Beams and guide rails: Connect the upright frames, forming the rails for the robot to travel along the depth of the rack lane.
Pallet Shuttle robot: A battery-powered (lithium) autonomous device, remotely controlled via remote control or WMS software. The robot can lift pallets, with an unloaded speed of approximately 70 m/min and a loaded speed of 35 m/min.
Operating principle:
Forklift places the robot and pallet at the entrance of the rack lane.
The robot automatically picks up the pallet, moves deep into the lane, lifts and places it in the first available position (following LIFO or FIFO principle depending on configuration).
For outbound operations, the robot retrieves the pallet from the required position and brings it to the entrance for the forklift to remove.
The process is fast, safe, and eliminates the need for forklifts to enter deep into the racking.
2. Advantages and Disadvantages of Shuttle Racking
Advantages:
- Space optimization: Increases storage density up to 80%, eliminates internal aisles within lanes, and maximizes use of depth and height in the warehouse.
- Improved efficiency: One robot can handle up to 600 pallets per day, saving loading/unloading time and reducing labor.
- High safety: Reduces collision risks, goods damage, and workplace accidents since forklifts only operate at the lane entrance.
- Flexibility: Suitable for cold storage (low temperatures), chilled warehouses, high-density storage; easily integrates with warehouse management software.
Disadvantages:
- High initial investment cost (racking + robot + control system).
- Requires periodic maintenance of the robot and battery to ensure continuous operation.
- Highest efficiency when storing low-SKU but high-volume, uniform goods.
3. Real-World Applications of Radio Shuttle Racking
Radio Shuttle racking is widely used in industries requiring high-density storage and fast throughput:
- Cold storage and food: Performs well at low temperatures, optimizing cooling costs for food, beverages, seafood, and pharmaceuticals.
- Fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG): Transit warehouses with high-volume shift-based inbound/outbound.
- Large-scale manufacturing: Storage of heavy, uniform raw materials and finished goods.
- Logistics and distribution: Warehouses with deep lanes requiring high speed.
Are you looking for a Radio Shuttle racking solution for cold storage or high-density warehouses? Contact Vinatech Group right away for a free site survey, detailed 3D design, storage density calculations, and the most competitive pricing in 2026!
Hotline: 086.758.9999 | Email: info@vinatechgroup.vn
Website: vinatechgroup.vn
We commit to custom manufacturing, export-quality standards, and professional nationwide installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the maximum load capacity of the Shuttle racking per pallet?
Vinatech’s Radio Shuttle racking supports a maximum load of 500 – 1500 kg per pallet.
2. Can the Shuttle racking be used in cold storage, and at what temperature?
Fully suitable for cold storage, operating stably from -30°C to -40°C (most effective at -18°C to -25°C for food, seafood, and pharmaceutical warehouses).
3. How is the Shuttle robot controlled in the system?
The AutoVTS Pallet Shuttle robot is remotely controlled via handheld remote or WiFi-connected computer/tablet, integrated with Siemens S7-1200 PLC for automatic, precise, and safe operation.
4. Does the Shuttle racking support FIFO or LIFO inventory management?
Supports both FIFO (First-In-First-Out) and LIFO (Last-In-First-Out) – flexibly configurable based on needs (FIFO for short-shelf-life goods like FMCG, LIFO for uniform goods).
5. How long can the Shuttle robot operate continuously in a warehouse?
Continuous operation time: 8 hours in ambient warehouses; 6 hours in cold storage (energy-efficient lithium battery, with fast charging capability).
6. What is the warranty period for the Radio Shuttle racking?
Vinatech Radio Shuttle racking comes with a 1-year (12-month) warranty, with special 1-for-1 replacement support for the robot shuttle within the first 3 months.
