Pallet Rack Beams

A pallet rack beam, sometimes called a cross beam, connects to pallet rack frames to create stable, durable shelving solutions of a pallet rack system. It is designed to securely support pallets and materials in warehouse shelving.

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!