Avanta × Spacemaker — 2‑Way Pallet Shuttle Systems
A semi automated, high density pallet storage solution for modern warehouses
Maximise storage capacity and throughput with a 2‑way pallet shuttle system designed for deep‑lane, high‑density environments. While drive‑in racking, pallet live storage and mobile racking all have their merits, 2‑way shuttles are rapidly becoming the more scalable, efficient and safer choice—especially in busy, multi‑SKU operations.
Pallet shuttles increase pallet density, reduce handling cycles, and keep operators out of racking lanes, supporting safer working practices and consistent performance. As storage technology evolves, shuttle systems provide a future‑ready platform that adapts to changing inventory profiles without reconfiguring your whole warehouse.
Spacemaker DualAxis Pro® — Compact, Semi Automated Efficiency
The Spacemaker DualAxis Pro® is a compact, semi‑automated pallet shuttle featuring self‑powered robotic carriers that optimise deep‑lane storage by maximising floor space, using available height and minimising aisle requirements. Its 4‑wheel‑drive traction distributes load and torque more effectively than 2‑wheel systems, reducing failure risk and improving reliability across demanding duty cycles.
- Operating temperature: performs in freezing environments down to −40 °C
- Drive system: 4‑wheel drive for improved torque and load distribution
- Control: Remote control and app‑based monitoring; supports large fleets
Throughput Without Compromise
Higher throughput, less forklift travel
Unlike drive‑in racking, where trucks enter deep lanes, 2‑way shuttles move pallets automatically within the rack. Forklifts remain at the aisle face, reducing travel distance and dwell times, improving safety, and increasing lane turnover. In busy operations, shuttles typically outperform mobile racking by enabling simultaneous access to multiple lanes—no waiting for the entire rack to move.
Maximum use of space
2‑way shuttles deliver deep‑lane density with fast access to pallet positions. Unlike pallet live systems (which require a constant flow and enforce FIFO), shuttle systems support FIFO or LIFO, depending on layout and stock rotation strategy. Compared with mobile racking—which requires larger clearances for movement—shuttle systems use fixed racking with minimal aisle requirements, creating more usable pallet positions per square metre.
Safer by design
Drive‑in systems place forklift operators inside the rack structure, increasing the risk of impact damage and incidents. Shuttle systems keep trucks at the aisle face, reducing exposure, protecting infrastructure, and extending racking life.
Flexible, Scalable and Built for Real World Operations
2‑way shuttle systems are modular and simple to scale—start with a single lane or zone and add shuttles as demand grows. Ideal for cold storage, food & beverage, 3PL, and manufacturing, they adapt to changing SKU profiles, seasonal peaks and throughput requirements.
By comparison, pallet live and mobile systems are typically harder to modify once installed and don’t offer the same flexibility in lane logic, stock rotation or incremental expansion.
Typical Applications
- Cold storage and temperature‑controlled logistics
- Food & beverage DCs with mixed SKU profiles
- 3PL / general logistics with seasonal fluctuations
- Manufacturing lines requiring buffer storage and sequencing
How the DualAxis Pro® Works
Designed for efficient deep‑lane storage, the DualAxis Pro® uses remote control to automatically load and retrieve pallets:
- Loading: the shuttle places pallets sequentially into the first available position until the lane is full.
- Retrieval: pallets are brought forward to the aisle face for quick forklift pickup.
This streamlined process maximises throughput and minimises handling time, maintaining consistent performance—even in high‑demand or low‑temperature environments.
Standard Features
- Automated pallet handling with FIFO / LIFO modes
- Quick‑change battery system (hot‑swap)
- High‑speed travel with precise positioning
- Integrated safety sensors and emergency stop functions
- Compatible with various racking systems (APR and deep‑lane configurations)
- Error codes with visual indicators for rapid diagnosis
- Stock Counting Mode for cycle counting
- Pallet Shuffle Mode to reorganise lanes
- Auto‑Return on low battery
- Adjustable speeds and pallet spacing
- LIFO/FIFO conversion modes
- Automated error handling and recovery logic
Optional Extras
- Freezer‑rated components for sustained cold‑store duty
- Additional batteries and charging infrastructure
- Advanced HMI for centralised control and status
- Multi‑Gateway Mesh for enhanced site‑wide connectivity
- Enhanced sensors for advanced object detection
- Integrated scales for pallet weight monitoring
Summary Benefits
- Maximises floor space and pallet positions per m²
- Supports FIFO/LIFO operational strategies
- Accurate stock control with counting modes and audit trails
- Mobile app access for monitoring and control
- Robust, durable design with reduced maintenance
- Operates reliably in below‑freezing environments (to −40 °C)
- Enhanced safety—fewer forklift entries into racking
- Fleet management: remote control for up to 240 shuttles
Delivery, Integration & Support (Avanta UK)
Avanta UK will design, supply and install the racking solution, and—in partnership with Spacemaker—provide shuttle hardware, software integration, commissioning, training, and ongoing support. Where required, Avanta can act as Principal Contractor (CDM 2015) to manage programme, coordination and compliance on site.
- Design: lane strategy, throughput modelling, and aisle planning
- Integration: WMS/ERP interfacing, HMI configuration, fleet management
- Commissioning: acceptance testing, handover documentation
- Support: preventive maintenance, spares, and performance optimisation
