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Pallet Racks & Components

Pallet Racks
1

Upright Frames

Serves as the vertical frame of the system.
2

Beams

Serves as the horizontal supports for the system.
3

Decking

Wire, solid, or perforated decking support loads of different sizes and weights.
4

Dividers

Keep your inventory separated and organized across each row.
5

Crossbars

Reinforces the system by taking loads off the beams.
6

Rack Protectors

Protects upright frames from damage caused by forklift collision.
7

Back Stops

Prevents the pallet and its load from being pushed back too far.
8

Pallet Rack Systems

Complete starter & add-on units.

Brands That We Carry

Racking your brain for pallet rack answers? Maybe we already have them.

What are the main components of pallet racks?

  • Uprights (Frames): These vertical components form the main structural framework of the racking system. Uprights have holes or slots that accept the horizontal beams.
  • Beams: Horizontal beams connect to uprights and create the shelving levels where pallets are placed. They come in various lengths and weight capacities, and they can be adjusted along the uprights to accommodate different pallet sizes.
  • Wire Mesh Decking or Pallet Supports: These are placed on the beams to provide a stable and even surface for the pallets to rest on. Wire mesh decking allows for airflow, fire safety, and provides support for non-palletized items as well.
  • Row Spacers: Used to maintain proper spacing between rows of pallet racking.
  • Column Protectors: Optional accessories designed to protect uprights from impacts by forklifts or other equipment. They help prevent damage to the racking structure and extend its lifespan.
  • End Guards/Aisle Protectors: Placed at the end of rows and along aisles to prevent accidental impact damage from forklifts and other vehicles.
  • Accessories: Accessories such as pallet stops, beam connectors, dividers, and specialized attachments for specific storage needs can enhance the functionality of pallet racking systems.

    • What are OSHA requirements for warehouse racking?

    The design, testing, and utilization of pallet racking falls under the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standard MH16.1:2021.

    *Note that there are ANSI Standards for all types of racking systems.*

  • Related to inspection and maintenance:
    • The racking system operator is responsible for maintenance and repair of the system. Upon visible damage, the pertinent portions of the rack shall be unloaded immediately and removed from service by the user until the damaged portion is repaired or replaced.
  • With relation to the safety of the employees under OSHA, this is covered under 3 OSHA standards.
    • Construction Standard – 1926.250(a)(1): All materials in tiers shall be stacked, racked, blocked, or otherwise secured to prevent sliding, falling, or collapse. General Industry – 1910.176(b): Materials shall not create hazards. General Duty Clause – Section 5(a)(1): Employers are required to provide their employees with a place of employment that is free from recognizable hazards that are causing or likely to cause death or serious harm to employees.

    What are the most important considerations with pallet racking?

  • Storage Needs: Assess your storage requirements, including the types of items you'll be storing, their sizes, weights, and the overall volume. Choose racking systems that can accommodate your specific inventory.
  • Space and Layout: Consider the available warehouse space and layout. Set up your racking configuration to maximize vertical storage and efficiently utilize the floor space while allowing for safe aisles and forklift maneuverability.
  • Load Capacity: Ensure the racking system's load capacity meets your needs. Factor in both the maximum weight per pallet and the cumulative weight of multiple pallets stored on each shelf level. Be sure to include the weight of the pallets themselves in your calculations.
  • Safety and Regulations: Prioritize safety by selecting racking systems that comply with relevant safety standards and regulations. Features like proper anchoring, load capacity labels, and safety accessories (e.g., beam connectors, column protectors) are important.
  • Future Scalability: Choose racking that can adapt to your future needs. Look for systems that can be easily expanded, reconfigured, or integrated with additional components as your storage requirements change over time.

    • Do pallet racks have to be anchored?

    Yes, they do. The racking manufactures require it, all building codes will require it, and if OSHA inspector comes in and observes that it is not, then OSHA will trigger the General Duty clause and determine that it is a recognized hazard that you are not protecting your employees from.