Pallet racks, also called “selective pallet racks,” are part of a warehouse shelving system primarily used for storing pallets of product. Pallet racking is made of upright frames, beams, and wire mesh decking.

There are many different styles of warehouse pallet racking, but the most common in use today is called the “teardrop” style (also known as “Interlake Old Style”). These frames have a distinctive teardrop-shaped hole that allows for quick, secure beam connections. Both the old and new Interlake styles are structurally sound and compatible with standard teardrop beams—neither is more secure than the other.

For more information about warehouse shelving, visit our warehouse shelving basics resource page.

Pallet Racking Frames

The structure of your pallet racking is generally called the frame. Pallet Rack Frames can be made of different materials, but the strongest and most common is steel. The frame is what provides the structural support, and are made to hold huge weight loads.

There are multiple types of frames that are used for different storage options. One of the most popular is the pallet rack upright frame, which is perfect for creating pallet racks that are more like standard shelving. If you’re planning on working with longer items, like pipes or lumber, cantilever frames are the best solution. For things that stack, you might want to consider an industrial stack rack frame.

Take stock of what the purpose of your shelving will be, and then explore the frame options to match.

Selecting Your Pallet Rack Frame

To pick the right frame for your pallet racks, you need to determine the height and depth of the frame.

Pallet Rack Frame Height

The most common frame height is 12’ or 16’.

To calculate the right height for your space, measure the distance from the floor to your ceiling (or sprinkler heads, if you have them). Subtract 1.5’ (18”) for clearance, and also subtract the height of your pallet + load. This will give you the maximum height of your top beam level.

For example:

21’ Sprinkler Height
–   1.5’ Clearance
–   4’ pallet + load height

= 15.5 feet – so select a 16’ height frame.

Select an upright height that is tall enough for the height of your top beam level.

Can I put a beam level at the very top of the frame? Yes, but it doesn’t have to be.

When selecting the height of your frame, be sure to consider:

• Height of the ceiling
• Height of the sprinkler head
• Maximum height of your forklift

Pallet Rack Frame Depth

The most common frame depth is 42” because it properly supports a standard 48” deep pallet. If you are using non-standard pallets, or you’re storing other products, be sure to calculate the correct frame depth based on the size of the product you are storing.

The frame depth sets the distance between the beams. Because the beams are designed to support the weight, the pallet should overhang the beams by 3 inches on the front and back.

To determine the correct frame depth, measure the depth of your pallet and subtract 6”.

Example: A standard GMA pallet is 48” deep. Subtract 6” = 42” frame depth.

Pallet Rack Support Beams and Crossbars

While the frames are what hold your warehouse shelving upright, it’s the beams that hold the frames together. Shelving or racking cross beams are usually made of heavy-duty steal, and match with the teardrop connecting systems of the frames.

The pallet rack beams are what give your shelving the length they need. The longer the beam or crossbar, the longer your shelving will be. Take this into consideration when you’re measuring out your space and planning your warehouse layout.

Selecting Beams for Your Pallet Racks

To choose the right beam for your pallet rack, you’ll need to determine the length of the beam, and the height of the beam.

8ft pallet rack beams are the most common beam length, because they allow you to store two standard 48”D x 40”W pallets per beam level, and the shorter length helps to support heavier pallets. If you have larger pallets, you may want to select a 9ft or 10ft beam.

If your pallets are not very heavy (ie, less than 2,000 lbs), 12ft beams could be a good choice. 12 ft beams allow you to fit three standard pallets per beam level.

Pallet Racking Beam Length

The length of your beam should be determined by the width of your pallets / product, and the capacity you need per beam level. Shorter beams will give you a higher capacity than longer beams.

Pallet Racking Beam Height / Capacity

The capacity of the beam is determined primarily by the length and the height of the beam, sometimes called the “face size.”

Beams with a larger face size will have a higher load capacity. The height of the beam typically varies between 3” and 6”. Choose a beam height that provides the capacity you need. Take a look at our beam load capacity guide for a look at approximate beam capacities.

Pallet Racking Beam Levels

When determining the number of beam levels for your pallet rack, allow for at least 3-4″ of clearance between the top of your stored product and the bottom of the beam above it. Also, include in that spacing between levels the height of the beams you selected.

How to Calculate the Total Width of the Rack

To calculate the total width of the rack, add the width of the beam to the combined width of the two upright posts. For example, if the beam is 96 inches wide, and each post adds 3 inches, you’ll need to add 6 inches total. That makes the overall rack width 102 inches.

Warehouse Pallet Rack Decking

Rack Decking is what the actual shelf is made out of. This is important to consider when planning what you’re actually going to put on the pallet rack. For instance, if you’re putting large items on your racks, then a wire mesh decking will work well, as they allow a load of up to 2500 pounds of uniformly distributed weight. But if you have small or thin items that might fall through the holes in the wire mesh, then something more consistent like a perforated steel or solid steel deck might be a better solution.

Wire Mesh Decking

Keep in mind that the weight of your load matters. While the frames and beams might support the weight of your materials, if the decking can’t support the weight, it likely to break through the shelf and crash into what’s below. Fire safety is also a consideration, so if you have flammable materials, or items that could spark and cause a fire, wood decking may not be the best option.

Selecting your Wire Mesh Decks for Your Pallet Racking

Wire Mesh Decks are an optional safety item, but we highly recommend them on every pallet rack system. We would estimate that roughly 90% of our customers choose to use wire mesh decks on their pallet racking.

To select the right wire deck, the depth of the wire deck must match the depth of the frame.

The width of the wire deck is determined by the length of your beams.

• 8ft beams – choose (2) decks that are 46”W each
• 9ft beams – choose (2) decks that are 52”W each
• 10ft beams – choose (2) decks that are 58”W each
• 12ft beams – choose (3) decks that are 46”W each

If you are using our pallet rack builder (above), it will automatically select the correct wire decks for your beams and frames.

Pallet Rack Safety Considerations

Safety is everyone’s top priority, so you’ll likely want to add some extra items to increase the safety of your rack system:

Anchors – Pallet rack that is not anchored to a concrete floor is extremely unsafe. You need four anchors installed per frame. Anchoring pallet rack is an essential part of proper pallet rack installation.

Column Guards – Damaged pallet rack is unsafe, and the most common damage to a frame happens when it is hit by a forklift. Installing column guards on each frame can reduce the likelihood of damage during low speed impacts. Any exposed side of a frame needs protection with a column guard solution such as a RAMguard or a column guard.

Drop Pins – Beam safety drop pins are an easy and inexpensive way to reduce the chance of beams being accidentally disengaged. This common error happens when a forklift operator lifts a pallet too high, causing the pallet to raise the beam above and disconnect it from the frame. This results in the entire beam level failing and pallets falling to the floor. Installing two drop pins per beam prevents this type of accident.

Designing your Warehouse Rack Layout

When laying out your pallet rack system, there are starter bays and add-on bays.

Starter bays consist of two frames plus the beams, and can stand alone. Add-on bays only have one frame plus the beams, and they are designed to connect to an adjacent frame.

Each row must begin with a starter bay, and then use add-on bays to increase the length of the row. There is no limit to the number of add-on bays you can connect together in a row.

When determining the length of your row, you must account for the 3” width of each frame, in addition to your beam length. For example, a row with two bays of 8ft beams would consist of one starter bay and one add-on bay, which would have three uprights. At 3” each, the three uprights would take up 9” of space. Add this to the two 8ft beams, for a total length of 16’ 9”.

Using our pallet rack configurator (above) will automatically calculate the correct length of each row of racking. You can also have a copy of your designed layout instantly emailed to you.

Pallet Racking For Sale

Once you have designed your pallet rack system using our easy step-by-step builder, you can add the pallet rack system to your cart, get an instant shipping quote, and check out. It’s that easy. If you need any help to plan your warehouse layout, or to know what your pallet racking needs are, feel free to contact us, and a racking professional will help you out!

The post Pallet Racking Builder appeared first on Speedrack West.

What Is Steel Bar Grating Decking for Pallet Racks?

Steel bar grating is a heavy-duty decking panel made from forged steel bearing bars and cross bars, typically welded together. It’s designed to sit on pallet rack beams and support pallets, containers with feet, or heavy items that require robust point load capacity.

The specific style we offer is 19-W-4 grating: bearing bars spaced 1-3/16″ on center, cross bars at 4″. This pattern provides 78% open area, making it ideal for airflow, drainage, and sprinkler compliance in warehouse storage applications.

Types of Steel Bar Grating Deck We Offer

We offer two types of bar grating deck: Waterfall and In-Trim.

No matter which one you go with, we will make sure it fits your pallet rack’s step beam. (Custom options available. Contact us).

Why Choose Steel Grate Decking Over Wire Decking?

Wire mesh decking may be cheaper upfront, but it struggles with point loads, heavy pallets with bottom boards, and containers with feet. Steel bar decking offers superior strength, support, and resistance to deformation under concentrated weight.

Grating decks also last longer in high-impact areas where forklifts load and unload regularly. Their open design allows for better drainage and less buildup of debris compared to solid steel decking.

What Makes Steel Grating the Best Warehouse Rack Deck Product?

The 19-W-4 spacing is a standard in industrial flooring and has now been adopted for pallet racking due to its performance. The pattern provides excellent balance between weight and load capacity.

With 1-1/2 x 1/8 inch bearing bars and a weight of 7.2 lbs per square foot, it delivers impressive strength with minimal material. It even supports pedestrian traffic up to 5′-10″ spans and holds up to 1,421 lbs at 2-foot spans (unsupported).

Is Steel Grating Decking Compatible With My Rack System?

Yes, our deck panels are compatible with most heavy duty pallet rack systems. They sit securely on rack beams, offering solid support, strength, and durability for pallet loads. They are ideal for storing and are often used in:

• Distribution centers
• Industrial warehouses
• Manufacturing facilities
• Cold storage warehouses
• High bay storage systems

What Grating Sizes Do We Offer for Different Rack Beam Lengths?

We manufacture grating panels in standard widths to match common pallet rack beam lengths. Here’s a dimensions guide based on frame depth and recommended beam width:

• 24″ depth, 46″ width – For 8ft & 12ft beams
• 34″ depth, 46″ width – For 8ft & 12ft beams
• 36″ depth, 46/52/58″ widths – For 8ft, 9ft, and 10ft beams
• 42″ depth, 46/52/58″ widths – For 8ft, 9ft, and 10ft beams
• 44″ depth, 46/52/58″ widths – For 8ft, 9ft, and 10ft beams
• 48″ depth, 46/52/58″ widths – For 8ft, 9ft, and 10ft beams
• 60″ depth, 46″ width – For 8ft & 12ft beams

All panel sizes are designed for safe distributed load. We’d like to help you choose the right configuration, call us now 503-640-5666.

Is This Decking Fire Code Compliant?

Yes. With 78% open area, this steel bar grating decking meets fire codes and supports sprinkler system performance. The open design allows water to flow through easily in case of fire.

That’s why insurance providers and safety inspectors often specify wire mesh decking, steel grating, and punched decking.

What Finish Options Are Available?

Our decking panels are made of bare steel. However, custom orders can be galvanized to resist rust or painted for additional corrosion resistance. Ask us for:

• Hot dip galvanized (ASTM A123)
• Painted (red, silver, black)
• Custom color coatings

How to Order Steel Bar Grating Deck Panels

Ordering is simple:

1. Contact us to get a quote and confirm lead time.
2. We’ll make sure you get the right grate deck panels for your exact pallet rack setup.

Key Takeaways

• 19-W-4 steel bar grating is ideal for pallet rack decking.
• Compatible with most heavy duty pallet rack systems.
• Supports both pedestrian access and heavy pallet loads.
• Simple sizing: 1-1/2 x 1/8 inch, 7.2 psf, 78% open area.
• Resistant to forklift damage, sagging, and debris.
• Meets fire safety requirements with open design.
• Easy to install and maintain.

Need strong, no-nonsense decking? Get in touch and we’ll help you rack it right.

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What Is Solid Steel Pallet Rack Decking?

Solid steel pallet deck is a heavy duty rack decking style made from 14 gauge steel. It has a smooth surface and reinforcing channels on the underside. It is designed to sit directly on top of step beams on a pallet rack level, creating a durable shelf that easily supports heavy pallet loads.

Unlike mesh, pallet rack solid decking provides a continuous steel surface that eliminates sagging and prevents smaller items from falling through.

Why Choose Solid Over Wire or Perforated?

Wire mesh and perforated panels may be cheaper, but they can’t match the strength and durability. When it comes to heavy loads or odd-shaped items, the solid steel deck outperforms:

• More contact area for uneven or small-bottomed products
• No sharp mesh to snag product or hands
• Easier cleanup and safer steel surface with durable powder

How many Solid Decking Panels Do You Need?

Each section fits standard pallet rack beams and is compatible with most existing pallet rack systems. The width remains consistent at 46″, making it easy to plan your pallet rack shelf layout.

Here is a standard pallet rack beams compatible table:

Beam Length	# of 46” Decks	Fit Status	Overhang / Gap	Notes
36″	–	Not a Fit	Deck too wide for this beam	Not compatible with 46″ panels. Request Custom
48″	1	Good Fit	2″ total gap	Works well with a slight side gap.
72″	1	Overhang	13″ total overhang (6.5″ per side)	Use with caution or get custom width. Request Custom
96″	2	Good Fit	4″ total gap (2″ each side)	Standard setup for 96″ beams.
108″	2	Gap + Overhang	~5.3″ gap between panels + side gaps	May cause product tipping — custom recommended. Request Custom
120″	2	Overhang	28″ total overhang (14″ per side)	Large overhang — better with custom combo. Request Custom
144″	3	Good Fit	6″ total gap (3″ each side)	Works well for full-span coverage.

Legend:

= Recommended Fit

= Possible Overhang – Contact Us for custom options!

= Not compatible – Contact Us for custom options!

How Much Weight Can Each Deck Support?

It is engineered to hold serious weight. With a load capacity of 3000 lbs, each pallet rack solid section has a load capacity that far surpasses typical warehouse requirements.

The lbs capacity varies slightly depending on depth, but every model features:

• Reinforcing channels on underside supports underneath
• Uniform metal surface for load distribution
• Tested capacity ratings per section

Where Can You Use Solid Steel Rack Decks?

Common applications include:

• Automotive parts storage
• Heavy equipment or tool storage
• Cold storage areas where water or ice might damage mesh
• Environments requiring solid surfaces for safety compliance

Whether you’re running a plant or upgrading your warehouse rack, this product will deliver.

How Does This Compare to Other Suppliers?

Some suppliers offer similar products, but our delivers:

• Consistent x 46″W sizing across models
• Standard finish is durable powder coated finish (Grey)
• Shorter lead times and USA shipping
• Can make them an electro-galvanized finish if needed

Should You Add Solid Decking to Your Pallet Rack?

If you’re looking to:

• Boost load capacity
• Upgrade your storage strength
• Simplify cleanup and safety

Then yes.

Are you looking for a pallet racking system for sale? You can order today using our online user-friendly builder!

The post Solid Steel Decking appeared first on Speedrack West.

Punched deck shelving is a steel pallet shelving that uses galvanized steel panels with evenly spaced perforations. These punched openings provide 50% open surface area, ensuring better airflow, drainage, and visibility—all while meeting NFPA 13 fire and sprinkler codes.

Engineered for durability and strength, ProDeck50® is the industry’s first flat, snag-free punched decking, with a load capacity of up to 250 lbs. per square foot (UDL). It’s stronger than wire mesh, safer for hand-stacking, and resistant to corrosion, impact, and dust buildup.

Capacities Table:

These are the capacities for the standard Punched Deck “ProDeck50 (Pro Deck 50)”, all made of 20-gauge steel. We can make the product stronger if needed, but those would be built per the application. Call 503-640-5666 now for a custom application!

Why Choose Punched Deck Over Wire Mesh Decking?

Choose the Right Steel Pallet Shelving for Your Application

When it comes to choosing the right Punched Deck that fits your industry, market type, product, and needs, you should follow the simple logic:

• Smaller decks = stronger = better for heavy-duty applications
• Larger decks offer wider coverage but have lower psf ratings, making them better for lighter goods or visually appealing layouts.

Punched Decking: Top Applications

Punched deck shelving is the go-to choice for industries where airflow, drainage, and durability matter:

• Heavy Industrial Manufacturing
• Automotive parts & tires
• Furniture, carpets & padding
• Medical & plumbing supplies
• Retail inventory & POS displays
• Hand-stacked small parts
• Cold storage & freezers
• Records and archival storage

It’s particularly useful in cold storage environments where air circulation and drainage help maintain temperature and reduce ice buildup.

Request a Quote or call us now 503-640-5666 to get a help with your order!

The post Punched Deck appeared first on Speedrack West.

All pallet rack frames must be securely anchored to a concrete floor with concrete pallet rack anchor bolts such as these.

• Required for correct installation and safety
• Suitable for most pallet rack applications

Note: When obtaining pallet rack permits, your seismic engineer may specify the type of pallet rack anchors required for your application. If you have an engineer then it may be prudent to speak to them about what anchors you need to be in compliance with your local government’s rules.

Need help anchoring your pallet rack? We can definitely help you properly set up your racks. Contact us at 503-640-5666 to discuss our pallet rack installation service or for any other help.

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• Waterfall style rests on top of the beams
• 2″ x 4″ grid pattern
• Powder coated gray for highly durable finish
• 3 U-channel supports designed for standard 1 5/8″ step beams
• Wire thickness: 6 ga.
• Capacity: 2500 lbs. (uniform distributed load, and only 2000 lb. capacity for 60″ deep style)

What Size of Pallet Rack Wire Decking Do I Need?

Depth: The depth of the wire decking must match the depth of the pallet rack frames. Common depths are 36″, 42″, 44″ and 48″ (and now offering 60″ deep).

Width: The width of the wire decking depends on the length of the beams.

• 46″ Width: Used with 4 ft, 8 ft, and 12 ft beams (most common)
• 52″ Width: Used with 9 ft beams
• 58″ Width: Used with 10ft beams

If you are looking to purchase a new pallet racking system, use our handy pallet rack builder on our pallet racks and racking systems page.

Types of Wire Mesh Decking

We offer two types of wire mesh decking: standard and flanged. You can see the difference in the SKU numbers WMD-4246(F)-GRYI and WMD-4246(SM)-GRYI.

How Many Wire Decks Decks Do I Need?

The number of wire decks needed depends on the length of your beams.

• 8ft, 9ft or 10ft beams: 2 decks per beam level
• 12ft beams: 3 decks per beam level

Here’s one quick way to think of this: For 8-10ft beams, you need the same number of decks as you have beams. For 12ft beams, you need 1.5 times as many decks as you have beams.

Pallet Rack Wire Decking Quantities

96″   beams = order (2) 46″ wide decks per level
108″ beams = order (2) 52″ wide decks per level
120″ beams = order (2) 58″ wide decks per level
144″ beams = order (3) 46″ wide decks per level

Pallet Rack Wire Decking vs Wood Decking

Wire decking is much better than wood decking. In an effort to save money, some people consider using wood like 2×4’s or plywood instead of wire decking for their pallet rack. There are several reasons why you should consider wire decking instead of a wood decking alternative.

• Safety – Wire decks use a 2″ x 4″ grid, which prevents most products from falling through. Using wood 2×4’s leaves large gaps for products to fall through the racking.
• Cost Savings – The primary reason people consider wood is that they think it will save them money. But when you really do the math on the cost of the wood, plus the labor and hassle to go get it and cut it to size, most people find that the minimal cost savings are not worth the effort.
• Fire Safety – Wood burns, and if you’re using your pallet racking in a business, your fire marshal would much prefer (and may even require) that you use wire decking instead of wood. The wire grids also allow water to flow through, which is better for putting out a fire.
• Capacity Ratings – Wire decking comes with manufacturer rated capacity ratings. Wood has no such rating, so can’t you really be sure that what you are loading on your wood decking is safe.
• Accidental Shifting – Wood decking often shifts when loading or unloading a pallet, and can easily fall through the decking, which has obvious safety issues (imagine a 2×4 falling from 15ft high), in addition to the time and effort required to reinstall the wood. Wire decking waterfalls over the front and back edge of the pallet rack beam to mitigate shifting for increased safety.

Looking for Used Wire Decking for Pallet Rack?

We may have just what you need! Give us a call at 503-640-5666 for current inventory and pricing on used wire decks.

The post Wire Decking appeared first on Speedrack West.

These heavy-duty steel rails have a standard 1 5/8” step, which makes them compatible with wire decking, pallet supports or wood supports.

Beam height varies from 3″ to 6.25″. 

What Type of Frames Are These Pallet Rack Beams Compatible With?

These beams feature a teardrop style connection, allowing for easy installation and adjustment without bolts or tools. Pallet rack uprights feature pre-punched holes in a teardrop design, allowing for easy connection with pallet rack beams.

Common beam lengths include 48″, 96″, and 144″, making it possible to customize a system for both small and large inventory. The height and strength of each beam are tailored to the weight they need to support, with load capacities clearly indicated per pair. 

• Tool-free assembly. Easy teardrop pallet click-in installation. Interlake options are available
• Two beams required per level. Beams sold individually.
• Manufactured to standards set by the Rack Manufacturers Institute.

Don’t see the size you need? We can fabricate any length beam. Call us for pricing.

Want used beams? Contact us at 503-640-5666 for availability and pricing.

Our Pallet Rack Cross Beams Add Strength and Stability

The right pallet racking cross beams are a must-have item for your warehouse racking system. They provide support for the material handling you place on the pallet racking.

Pallet Rack Beam Dimensions

Length: Pallet rack beams typically range in length from 4 feet to 12 feet. The length chosen depends on the width of the pallets being stored and the overall configuration of the rack system.

Height: The height of pallet rack beams can vary depending on the load capacity required and the vertical space available in the warehouse. Standard heights range from 3 inches to 6 inches.

Width: The width of pallet rack beams is often standardized to accommodate standard pallet sizes. Common widths include 3 inches, 3.5 inches, 4 inches, and 5 inches. The width chosen should match the depth of the pallets being stored and provide sufficient support.

Thickness: The thickness of pallet rack beams influences their load-bearing capacity and durability. Common thicknesses range from 1.5 inches to 3 inches, with heavier-duty applications typically requiring thicker beams.

Capacity: Pallet rack beams are designed to support specific weight capacities per pair. These capacities can vary widely depending on factors such as beam length, thickness, and material. Standard load capacities typically range from 2,000 pounds to 10,000 pounds per pair.

Calculating Necessary Cross Beam Capacity

In order to know the size of the beam that you need, you’ll need to calculate the beam capacity required per beam level. Since you will always need two beams per level, you need to know that capacities are listed per pair, not for an individual beam.

Calculating the beam capacity that you need isn’t too difficult once you know the proper way to do it: First, determine the weight of the heaviest pallet that you have and multiply it by the number of pallet positions you want per beam level. This will provide your required beam capacity. The most common configurations have two pallet positions on 8ft, 9ft, or 10ft beams. Typically three pallet positions will fit on a 12ft beam level.

Pallet Rack Beam Types

1. Step Beams: These are the most common type of pallet rack beams. They have a step or recessed section that allows for the placement of wire decking or other support structures. Step beams are versatile and can accommodate various pallet sizes.
2. Box Beams: Box beams have a square or rectangular shape, providing enhanced strength and load-bearing capacity compared to other beam types. Often used for heavy-duty applications or where extra durability is required.
3. Structural Beams: Structural beams are made of heavier gauge steel and offer superior strength and durability compared to roll-formed beams. They are ideal for high-traffic areas or environments with heavy loads.
4. Channel Beams: Channel beams have a U-shaped channel profile, providing additional support and stability for pallets. Used for pallets that need to be slid into place, rather than lifted.
5. Box Channel Beams: Similar to channel beams, box channel beams have a box-shaped cross-section, offering increased strength and rigidity. They are suitable for heavy-duty storage applications and can withstand significant loads.
6. Tubular Beams: Tubular beams feature a hollow tubular design, which reduces weight while maintaining strength—commonly used in warehouses where weight restrictions or seismic considerations are a concern.

Beam Height / Face Size

Once you calculate your desired beam capacity, that number will be your guide for determining the height (or face size) of beam you purchase. The length, height, and gauge of steel all affect the capacity of the beam. The chart on this page is a helpful guide to the measurements and weight capacity of each size of pallet rack beam.

Keep in mind that beam capacities are based on uniformly distributed static loads. If you are in an area with seismic concerns (i.e. California, Oregon, Washington, etc.) give us a call for a seismic review of your rack configuration.

To be sure about the load capacity of your pallet rack system, contact us and ask one of our industrial shelving experts. We can help ensure that you select the correct beam size for your required capacity.

For durable, dependable pallet rack beams that are ideal for large capacities and high-density warehouse storage, choose Speedrack West!

The post Pallet Rack Beams appeared first on Speedrack West.

Teardrop columns are compatible with most standard teardrop systems, including both “old style” and “new style” (shaved rivet) beams.

• Teardrop holes allow beams to be adjustable every 2″
• The 5″ x 8″ x 3/8″ seismic baseplates have four holes for anchoring into concrete
• Heavy duty welded bracing
• Want bolted frame bracing? We have that too!
• If you need more capacity, we can make super heavy duty frames to meet any capacity requirement. Contact us for details.

These frames are R-mark certified and are manufactured to standards set by the Rack Manufacturers Institute. They are suitable for applications that require seismic calculations and permits.

Don’t see the size you need? We make custom pallet rack to your specifications. Just contact us.

*Capacities are listed in lbs per bay and are based on 48″ beam spacing with a uniformly distributed static load. Capacities for your configuration should be verified by seismic calculations.

Pallet racks are a great way to quickly and easily increase the storage capacity of your warehouse. They are the ideal way to store pallets, heavy or bulky items. Warehouse space is expensive, and pallet racking helps utilize the vertical space of your warehouse.

The upright frame is an essential part of a pallet rack system, and you’ll want to make sure that you consider the height and depth that you’ll need for the items you plan to store in your new storage system.

Selecting the Best Height and Depth

The most common depth for upright frames is 42 inches since this size fits standard 48″D x 40″W pallets and provides the proper support. The next most common size is 48 inches deep. Frame depth can be manufactured to any specification to fit your project.

The frame height will be limited by several important factors: ceiling height, sprinklers, and forklift reach. There needs to be adequate clearance above the items on the top shelf for both sprinklers and ceiling clearance. And don’t forget to consider how high your forklift can reach when planning the height of your highest beam level.

Frame Capacity

Most frame capacities are calculated per bay and are based on beams spaced every 48 inches. The capacity of a frame depends greatly on the height of the first beam level as well as the distance between each beam level. Adding beam levels reduces the space between each beam level and provides more connection points to support the frame. This increases the capacity of the frame. Also, the thickness of your concrete flooring can be a limiting factor when calculating the frame’s capacity.

To determine the capacity of your specific pallet rack configuration (ie, for safety or permitting purposes), contact us and one of our industrial shelving experts can help.

Other Frame Considerations

The seismic zone you’re in can change anchoring requirements as well as capacity ratings. People in areas that are more prone to earthquakes should consider this when planning their pallet rack purchase. We can help with seismic calculations which will give you a capacity rating based on your specific location, pallet rack configuration and slab thickness.

Make sure that you consider how these factors can possibly affect your load capacity prior to purchasing the materials needed to build your storage system. And when in doubt, call us to talk to a pallet rack expert.

Our Warehouse Racking Professionals Can Help

If you have questions, we highly recommend that you consult us prior to making any big decisions concerning your pallet racking. We are always here to answer any questions that you may have, and we are always happy to address any concerns.

Our staff members are friendly and will always treat you with the respect that you deserve. We are professionals who not only want to supply you with the products that you need, but we also want to help you in any way that we can.

The post Pallet Rack Frame - Heavy Duty appeared first on Speedrack West.

Teardrop columns are compatible with most standard teardrop systems, including both “old style” and “new style” (shaved rivet) beams.

• Teardrop holes allow beams to be adjustable every 2″
• Bolted bracing allows for easy replacement of damaged components
• Want welded frame bracing? We have that too!
• If you need more capacity, we can make super heavy duty frames to meet any capacity requirement. Contact us for details.

These frames are R-mark certified and are manufactured to standards set by the Rack Manufacturers Institute. They are suitable for applications that require seismic calculations and permits.

Don’t see the size you need? We make custom pallet rack to your specifications. Just contact us.

*Capacities are listed in lbs per bay and are based on 48″ beam spacing with a uniformly distributed static load. Capacities for your configuration should be verified by seismic calculations.

Pallet racks are a great way to quickly and easily increase the storage capacity of your warehouse. They are the ideal way to store pallets, heavy or bulky items. Warehouse space is expensive, and pallet racking helps utilize the vertical space of your warehouse.

The upright frame is an essential part of a pallet rack system, and you’ll want to make sure that you consider the height and depth that you’ll need for the items you plan to store in your new storage system.

Selecting the Best Height and Depth

The most common depth for upright frames is 42 inches since this size fits standard 48″D x 40″W pallets and provides the proper support. The next most common size is 48 inches deep. Frame depth can be manufactured to any specification to fit your project.

The frame height will be limited by several important factors: ceiling height, sprinklers, and forklift reach. There needs to be adequate clearance above the items on the top shelf for both sprinklers and ceiling clearance. And don’t forget to consider how high your forklift can reach when planning the height of your highest beam level.

Frame Capacity

Most frame capacities are calculated per bay and are based on beams spaced every 48 inches. The capacity of a frame depends greatly on the height of the first beam level as well as the distance between each beam level. Adding beam levels reduces the space between each beam level and provides more connection points to support the frame. This increases the capacity of the frame. Also, the thickness of your concrete flooring can be a limiting factor when calculating the frame’s capacity.

To determine the capacity of your specific pallet rack configuration (ie, for safety or permitting purposes), contact us and one of our industrial shelving experts can help.

Other Frame Considerations

The seismic zone you’re in can change anchoring requirements as well as capacity ratings. People in areas that are more prone to earthquakes should consider this when planning their pallet rack purchase. We can help with seismic calculations which will give you a capacity rating based on your specific location, pallet rack configuration and slab thickness.

Make sure that you consider how these factors can possibly affect your load capacity prior to purchasing the materials needed to build your storage system. And when in doubt, call us to talk to a pallet rack expert.

Our Warehouse Racking Professionals Can Help

If you have questions, we highly recommend that you consult us prior to making any big decisions concerning your pallet racking. We are always here to answer any questions that you may have, and we are always happy to address any concerns.

Our staff members are friendly and will always treat you with the respect that you deserve. We are professionals who not only want to supply you with the products that you need, but we also want to help you in any way that we can.

The post Pallet Rack Frames appeared first on Speedrack West.

Pallet rack cross bars are a less expensive option than wire mesh decking, and are used when only pallets are stored on the racking.

• Flanged on both ends to rest securely on beams
• Screw hole in each flange allows for tek screw to prevent movement
• Galvanized steel is resistant to corrosion
• Open bottom design prevents water accumulation to comply with fire safety codes

Do I Need Pallet Supports?

It is wise to have either pallet supports or wire mesh deck in your pallet rack system. Without pallet supports or wire mesh deck, your pallets are only supported by the beams. This requires extreme care when loading the pallet on the rack. Improper loading could result in the pallet falling and cause severe injury or death. Adding pallet support bars increases the safety of your system. For additional safety, and to allow storage of boxes and other non-pallet items, we recommend wire mesh decking.

How Many Pallet Supports Should I Use?

We recommend at least two pallet supports per pallet position. An 8 ft wide rack level would hold two standard pallets. This would require at least 4 pallet supports per 8 ft beam level. A 12 ft beam level should have at least 6 pallet supports. Heavy loads may need 3 or more pallet supports per pallet.

Pallet Support Installation

Just place the support bars for pallet racks on your beams, and you’re done! For extra safety, prevent the pallet support from moving by adding a tek screw into the hole on each flange.

The post Pallet Supports appeared first on Speedrack West.