Adjustable pallet rack is the most widely used racking system in industrial warehouses, retail storage areas, and even residential storage applications. Its versatile design allows for customized configurations to accommodate various product storage needs. Additionally, it is one of the most readily available and easily adaptable storage solutions on the market.
It can be offered in roll form or structural steel depending on the capacity requirements from OSHA and amount of forklift traffic in a warehouse setting.
Roll Form and Structural Adjustable Pallet Rack
Roll form adjustable pallet rack systems and structural pallet rack systems differ in their construction and assembly methods. Roll-form racks typically feature a boltless design, where beams connect to frames using safety clips. These clips vary by manufacturer, though some universal designs are available for compatibility across different brands.
In contrast, structural pallet racks use a bolted connection with nuts and bolts to secure beams to frames. This design eliminates the need for safety clips, offering a more rigid and heavy-duty solution suitable for high-load applications.
When selecting between roll-form and structural pallet racks, consider factors such as load capacity, durability, and ease of assembly to ensure the right fit for your storage needs.
Adjustable Pallet Rack Frames and Beams
Adjustable Pallet Rack has beam levels that can be adjusted vertically from 1” to 4” depending on the style of pallet rack being used. This adjustability allows products of varying heights to be stored in the same bay while utilizing the entire height of the pallet rack frame.
The height of the frame is typically dictated by the height of the ceilings in a storage area and may vary depending on the lift height of the forklift, pallet jack, or other equipment such as an Quote picker.
Why You Want an Adjustable Pallet Rack
An adjustable pallet rack provides flexibility in beam placement, making it an ideal solution for warehouses with unique storage requirements. This adjustability is particularly valuable when materials cannot be stored directly on the floor, requiring a low first beam level.
Common scenarios where a lower beam level is needed include:
- Forklift outriggers: Some forklifts require clearance at the base of the racking system.
- Clean-out space: Industries such as food storage often require floor-level clearance for sanitation purposes.
In most adjustable pallet rack systems, beams can be positioned as low as the end connector will allow to the floor, ensuring compliance with operational and regulatory needs while maximizing storage efficiency. For applications where the beam needs to be flush with the floor, a Bottom Beam can be used. For more compliance information, check out OSHA Standard 1926.250—General Requirements for Storage. This standard outlines the general requirements for material storage in workplaces, emphasizing safety protocols.
Easily Reconfigured
An adjustable pallet rack storage system can be easily reconfigured as needs change in warehouse applications. Pallet rack bays can be uninstalled and reinstalled in different areas or with new levels.
Note it will be necessary to check with the pallet rack manufacturer to ensure the capacities of your rack will suffice if levels are being changed. The capacity of a frame changes based on the opening between levels. The larger the opening, the lower the capacity of the frame.
Benefits Beyond Adjustability
- Maximizing Storage Density
- Improving Picking Efficiency
Safety Considerations:
- Rack Load Capacity and Weight Distribution
- Seismic Considerations
- Rack Inspections & Maintenance
Adjustable Rack Add-ons
There are also many add-ons to adjustable pallet racks that can store unique items such as dies, drums, carpet rolls, coil racks, etc.
Items such as wire dividers, backstops, solid steel decks, and fork entry bars increase the options to configure your storage area based on your requirements. Each storage area should be designed based on the specific needs of your application.
If you would like more information on adjustable racks or other storage solutions, be sure to contact us. Our goal is to help you!
