Facts to Know Before You Buy Pallet Rack

Your pallet rack purchase is a big investment. Here are a few items to take note of before you purchase your pallet rack.

Know Your Load

The very first thing to take note of is what you are planning to store on the pallet racking. This includes, but may not be limited to:

• Overall dimensions of the material being stored. If loads are on pallets, determine the dimensions with the pallets
• Weight per unit
• Estimated quantity of material the pallet racking is intended.

Know Your Workspace

The very next thing to learn is about the space you have to put your pallet racking. Basically, you want to maximize your use of the space. In order to get the most pallet rack in your warehouse,  keep in mind:

• The overall dimensions of your warehouse space
• What is the condition of your floor? Does it have any slopes or rough areas? Do you know what its load bearing capacity is?
• Are there any obstructions (columns, machinery, doors, etc) in the area?
• How tall is the ceiling? What is your overhead clearance? Make a note of sprinklers, lighting, ventilation systems and any other overhead equipment.
• Make sure that you understand how your pallet racking will impact your building safety. Check to make sure that your evacuation routes and eyewash stations are all available.
• Review requirements for hard hats. Also, if employees are being man-lifted or using order pickers, you’ll need fall protection training and equipment.
• Find out about pedestrian traffic restrictions.
• Are their seismic restrictions in your region? If so, you should check your local building codes regarding the requirements for the type of pallet racking you’re considering.

Know Your Material Handling Equipment

To ensure that your pallet rack system is appropriate for the product stored on the pallet racking is critical. Needed information includes:

• Load capacities of the fork lift or pallet trucks
• Turning radius is required for the equipment (to determine aisle widths)
• Maximum extended height of the lifting equipment (can it reach the top level?)