Having the right shelving system for your warehouse’s needs is crucial. One of the most effective solutions for long-item storage is cantilever racking. This system is ideal for storing items that are difficult to shelve with traditional racking systems. By understanding the advantages of cantilever racking, you can make an informed decision that benefits your warehouse organisation and efficiency.
What Is a Cantilever Rack?
A cantilever rack is a robust warehouse storage system designed for long, bulky items. They are easily recognisable by their protruding arms and lack of front-facing posts. There are single-sided and double-sided versions of cantilever racking systems, with arms extending from one or both sides of the uprights. This design makes them highly versatile for different storage needs.
Main Benefits of Using Cantilever Racking
Cantilever racking is designed specifically for the easy storage of long, thin items such as steel racks, beams, and lumber. Traditional shelving systems often struggle with these types of materials due to their size and shape. Cantilever racks, with their open design and significant length, provide the ideal solution. They can also handle heavy and bulky items, making them versatile for various storage needs. For more info read our Warehouse Shelving vs. Cantilever Racking: Get The Best Storage Systems article.
Allows for Easy Access
One of the standout features of cantilever racking is the ease of access it provides. This system consists of two smaller racks on either side of a long I-beam, with no obstructions above them. This design makes it easier to access items, especially those stored on higher shelves that require a forklift. The open design also prevents items from being buried behind other pallets, allowing for quick and efficient retrieval.
Offers Easy Installation and Reconfiguration
Cantilever racking systems are known for their simple installation and reconfiguration processes. Compared to other types of racking systems, they offer a high level of flexibility. This makes it easy to organise your warehouse space according to your specific needs. Additionally, cantilever racks can be stacked to maximise vertical storage, providing even more space-saving solutions.
Helps Save Time and Money
Implementing cantilever racking in your warehouse can lead to significant time and cost savings. The system’s design allows for quick storage and retrieval of items, improving overall efficiency. The increased storage capacity also means better use of available space, freeing up other areas of your warehouse for different uses. In the long run, this can translate to reduced operational costs and improved productivity.
Types of Products That Work Best With Cantilever Racks
Cantilever racking systems are ideal for storing long, heavy items that are difficult to palletize or package. Common examples include bar stock like stainless steel, iron, and aluminium, plumbing pipes, lumber, plywood, tubing, wire coils, building materials like drywall, sheetrock, and flake board, and vinyl rolls.
The majority of cantilever systems are constructed using roll-forming boltless designs, making them lighter and more cost-effective compared to structural models. While they can support many heavy items, their weight capacity can be a limitation for very cumbersome objects. Upgrading to structural cantilever rack storage systems allows for storing even heavier objects, such as furniture, engines and heavy vehicle components, boats, large crates, and other large and oddly-shaped objects.
Major Components of a Cantilever Rack
Most cantilever racks consist of four main parts: bases, upright columns, support arms, and bracing.
The bases bolt the rack system to the floor, providing stability. Each complete cantilever rack requires at least two bases.
The upright columns are connected to the bases and determine the system’s height. Each column features mounting points for the support arms.
The support arms are attached to the upright columns and support the stored items. There must be at least two arms per horizontal plane to distribute the load evenly and ensure safety.
Bracing bars connect the upright columns, adding strength and increasing the overall weight capacity. There are two types of bracing: straight braces, which are horizontal bars, and X-braces, which are diagonal bars. Combining both types provides extra support and stability for the racking system.
Conclusion
Cantilever racking offers a range of benefits that make it an excellent choice for long-term item storage. Its ability to handle hard-to-shelve items, provide easy access, and offer flexible installation options makes it a valuable addition to any warehouse. Additionally, the time and cost savings associated with cantilever racking further enhance its appeal.For those looking to improve their warehouse organisation and efficiency, consider the durable and space-saving solutions provided by cantilever racking. To learn more about cantilever racking systems and other storage solutions, reach out to Krost Shelving & Racking. Our team is ready to help you find the perfect storage solution for your needs.