What is Cantilever Racking?
Cantilever racking is a storage system designed for handling long, bulky items that can’t easily fit on standard pallets. This type of racking is ideal for materials like piping, lumber, tubing, or even carpet rolls.
Unlike traditional pallet racking, which uses vertical uprights that can restrict the length of stored items, cantilever racking features horizontal arms that extend out from a sturdy upright, allowing for the storage of longer items across multiple arms. As a result, this design provides greater flexibility in organizing and storing oversized goods.
How Does Cantilever Racking Work?
Cantilever racking comprises four main components: the base, uprights, arms, and supports. The base, typically made of heavy-duty steel, offers the stability needed to balance the weight of the stored items. The uprights are strong vertical posts supporting the horizontal arms, which serve as the shelves for storing materials. Additionally, the arms extend from the uprights and can be adjusted to accommodate items of various lengths. Supports connect the uprights, adding strength and stability to the entire structure.
Benefits of Cantilever Racking
Cantilever racking offers significant advantages for warehouses that store oversized or irregularly shaped items. This system allows for quick access to materials and can be easily reconfigured to suit changing storage needs. Furthermore, while this type of racking can also store traditional pallets, they are particularly beneficial for businesses needing to store large or bulky items that don’t fit on standard pallets. Moreover, this storage equipment system is relatively easy to install and rearrange, making it a versatile option for various storage environments.
Considerations for Implementing Cantilever Racking
When planning to implement cantilever racking, it’s important to consider the type of forklifts you will use and the layout of your warehouse. Since the arms of a cantilever rack are supported by a single connection to the uprights, their length is limited to ensure they maintain their strength. Consequently, this may require more rows of cantilever racks to store your inventory, potentially leading to narrower aisles. Therefore, proper planning is essential to optimize your storage space while ensuring safety and accessibility.
The Importance of Regular Inspections
Like any racking system, cantilever racking requires regular inspections to ensure safety and stability. Because these racks often store heavy loads, it’s crucial to identify potential issues early. We (Storage Equipment Safety Service Ltd) offer annual rack inspections and SEMA approved or SEMA produced rack inspection training. These services help warehouse operators maintain their racking systems properly, ensuring long-term safety and efficiency.
In Summary
Cantilever racking is a versatile and efficient storage solution for warehouses handling long or bulky items. With proper planning, implementation, and regular maintenance, it can significantly enhance the organization and safety of your storage operations.