Pallet racking or cantilever racks, is a common question to the warehouse storage solution. In quora, sometime we will seem the user ask pros and cons about different racking. It means choosing the right racking system has huge needs to warehouse manager or factory beginners. Any local Racking company is quoting $3500-10k to assess all of our racking. For your warehouse or factory, find a direct racking system manufacturer is good choice.
Do you go for cantilever racking or stick with standard pallet racking ? Both the two systems can hold strong inventory and various of product from industrial material. In this article, we’ll dive into what each system offers and help you make an informed decision.
What is Cantilever Racking?
Cantilever racking is specifically designed to mainly for long, bulky, or oddly shaped items. Imagine a series of shelves that are completely open on one side, kind of like a set of giant arms extending outward. Depends on “arms” are supported by a vertical pole or column and allow for easy access and visibility of stored goods.
If you usually stay in builder marchent,construction material market, cantilever racking system is common equipment to storing long, bulky, and irregularly shaped items such as piping, lumber, and furniture. Type of cantilever rack including timber cantilever rack,metal cantilever rack.
Type of cantilever racks
Structural racks
Structural cantilever rack is made by hot-rolled structural steel,. This type of rack is highly durable and has wide-ranging load capacities. Since it is made from heavy-duty Q235 steel construction, it has superior strength ability in high capacity load. It requires little maintenance and is capable of withstanding harsh outdoor storage or warehouse conditions.
Roll formed racks
Roll formed cantilever racks are fabricated from cold roll-formed steel. Made from lighter gauge steel than structural varieties, they are sometimes referred to as light-duty cantilever racks. However, they can still support up to 30,000 lbs.
The main advantage of a light-duty cantilever rack is its adjustability. Unlike structural steel cantilever racking, roll-formed racks assemble using boltless pin connectors,operateing adjustable beam levels, making installation and reconfiguration quick and easy when utilizing a cantilever assembly guide. They are frequently used in high-volume, fast-paced facilities like food and beverage distribution centers.
Benefits of Cantilever Racking
Open Design: One of the standout features of cantilever racking is its open design. Since there are no vertical obstructions, you can store longer items like pipes, lumber, or even large furniture without worrying about getting stuck. This is huge for warehouses that deal with odd shapes, as it maximizes the use of available space.
Easy Assmble: Cantilever racking system is easy to install and configure with easy availability of manuals.
Versatility:Cantilever racks are incredibly versatile. They can handle a wide variety of products and can be customized in terms of height and depth. Whether you’re dealing with large manufacturing items or retail furniture, there’s a cantilever solution that fits.
Affordability – Pallet racking is more economical compared to Cantilever racks but as both serve distinct purposes, competition is a little tricky.
What is Standard Pallet Racking?
Standard pallet racking is the go-to storage solution for many warehouses. It consists of rows of shelves that are designed to hold pallets—those flat structures that make it easy to transport goods. Think of it like columns in a library, but instead of books, you have pallets stacking up goods.
Benefits of Standard Pallet Racking
Cost-Effectiveness
If budget constraints are a concern (and whose aren’t?), standard pallet racking often wins out. It’s typically less expensive to install and maintain than cantilever options. Plus, the availability of used racking systems makes it even easier on the wallet.
Load Capacity
Standard pallet racks are designed to handle heavy loads efficiently. Depending on your setup, they can often hold up to several thousand pounds per shelf, making them ideal for bulk storage of goods.
Key Differences Between Cantilever and Pallet Racking
When it comes to making a choice, understanding the differences is key.
Design and Structure
Cantilever racks tend to take up more horizontal space due to their design, while pallet racks can be stacked higher and denser. This makes pallet racking a better option for maximizing vertical space, especially in warehouses with high ceilings.
Accessibility
Accessibility can greatly affect operational efficiency. Cantilever racking provides easier access to items, thanks to its open-side design. In contrast, standard pallet racking can require a bit more maneuvering to get to goods at the back of a shelf.
Space Utilization
In terms of space utilization, pallet racking can be stacked higher vertically and often maximizes warehouse layout more effectively. Cantilever racking, while easier for longer items, generally requires larger aisles for access.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Racking System
Deciding between these two systems isn’t just about features. Here’s what you should ponder before making a change:
Type of Inventory
What are you storing? If your inventory consists of bulky items, cantilever racks can be the way to go. If you’re mainly dealing with standard pallets of product, then a pallet racking system is likely your best bet.
Warehouse Layout
Your warehouse’s layout can also significantly influence your decision. If space is limited and you have high ceilings, pallet racking might be a much smarter option. Conversely, if there’s plenty of horizontal space, cantilever racking can shine.
Budget Constraints
Let’s be honest—everyone has a budget. Standard pallet racks often require a lower initial investment and may be better in the long run if your inventory consists primarily of palleted goods. Cantilever racking systems might be more costly upfront but could save time and increase efficiency with certain types of inventory.
Conclusion
Choosing between cantilever racking and standard pallet racking doesn’t have to be daunting. It’s all about understanding your specific warehouse needs, the types of products you handle, and the space you have available. Remember, both systems have distinct advantages, and the right choice can significantly enhance your operational efficiency.
To wrap it up, assess the size of your inventory, your warehouse’s layout, and your budget to make the most informed decision possible. A well-thought-out choice can lead to Heda shelves for improving productivity and a more organized workspace.
FAQs
What types of inventory are best suited for cantilever racking?
- Cantilever racking is ideal for long, bulky, or irregularly shaped items like lumber, pipes, and furniture.
How high can I stack pallets in a standard pallet racking system?
- The height of pallet racking can vary, but many systems allow for stacking up to 30 feet or more, depending on your warehouse’s height and design.
Are cantilever racks customizable for different lengths?
- Yes! Cantilever racks can be customized in terms of arm length and height to fit various items, providing great flexibility.
Do both systems require special equipment for loading and unloading?
- Yes, both systems may require forklifts or pallet jacks to load and unload, though the specifics will depend on the sizes and weight of your goods.
How do I determine the cost-effectiveness of a racking system?
- Consider initial costs, installation, maintenance, and how well the system meets your storage needs. It’s often worth evaluating potential long-term savings in efficiency and productivity.
