Pallet Rack 101
Pallet racking is an extremely versatile materials handling solution. It goes by different names and can seem intimidating if you are not familiar with the terms and uses. This page aims to be a guide to help you better understand the basics of pallet racking to help you create a solution that is both practical and cost effective.
Anatomy of a Pallet Rack
Uprights
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Uprights are the foundation of a pallet rack. They come in a variety of heights and widths. Height is limited only by your ceiling height and width determines your shelf depth.
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Post width measurements are used as an indicator of capacity.
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Uprights can be anchored to the ground, attached to each other via beam or row spacer, or left as an individual unit! (More below)
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Crossbeams or
Step Beams
Beams are used to create the shelves on a rack. Each shelf requires 2 beams. Beams come in any length imaginable to create the perfect shelf. Face dimensions are an indicator of capacity.
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Wire deck
Wire decking, wire mesh, or decking refers to the steel wire platform that sits on the stepbeams to create a shelf. Racking can be used without decking if wood, pallets, or something else is used as a platform for your material/items.
At Terminal Steel - we stock "teardrop" or "interlake" pallet racking. This refers to the attachment points between the uprights and the beams. The uprights have teardrop shaped holes running from top to bottom. The beams have posts that slide into the these teardrops, drop down, and a locking pin that keeps them in place. Our components are compatible with nearly all other teardrop or interlake style pallet racking.
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Our wire decking is "double waterfall" decking, meaning it has arches on the front and back that sit over the stepbeams. There are support channels running front to back on the bottom side of the decking. These channels sit on the inside ledge of the stepbeam, holding most of the load.
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To achieve rate capacities, the manufacturer specifications require that the first (closest to the ground) shelf must be between 24-48 inches from the ground. If your solution requires the first shelf be higher than 48 inches, we recommend that a rear support beam be added around 36 inches. While this will not satisfy manufacturer requirements, it will help create greater rigidity and reduce the risk of failure.
Racking Layout Options
Racking can also be setup side by side and secured via row spacers. Row spacers can be used to support and distribute consecutive runs, but eliminate the ability to share uprights.
Racking Accessories
Beyond beams, uprights, decking, and row spacers, other components can be added onto pallet racking to meet unique needs and applications. Casters can be bolted or welded on to create mobile racks. Tracks can be integrated to create racks that move linearly. Pallet support bars can be added.
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We are more than happy to help you problem solve and create a solution that is tailored for you.
