Cantilever vs. Pallet Racking: Choosing the Ideal System for Your Warehouse

Understanding Cantilever and Pallet Racking Systems
Choosing the right racking system for your warehouse can be a challenging task. Two common options are cantilever racks and pallet racks, each offering unique advantages and disadvantages. This blog post aims to compare and contrast these two systems to help you make an informed decision for your business.

Cantilever Racking System: An Overview
A cantilever rack is a racking system that features uprights with arms extending out to support the load. These racks lack vertical columns at the front and are typically used to store long, bulky, or irregularly shaped items such as lumber, pipes, or steel beams. You can build a deck for items requiring a stable foundation, like wood or plastics.

Pallet Racking System: An Overview
A pallet rack is a racking system that stores goods on pallets, which are supported by beams. Pallet racks are tiered horizontal racks stacked to create tall, vertical structures. The most common type of industrial storage system, pallet racks, are robust, durable, and can store a variety of goods. However, a forklift is necessary to stack or remove goods from these shelves.

Comparing Cantilever Racking and Pallet Racking
Here's a comparison of cantilever racks and pallet racks, based on key factors:
• Capacity: Cantilever racks typically hold more weight than pallet racks.
• Size: Cantilever racks are generally larger than pallet racks.
• Flexibility: Cantilever racks, being reconfigurable, offer more flexibility than pallet racks.
• Types: Cantilever racks come in single-sided and double-sided varieties, while pallet racks are available in selective, drive-in, and push-back varieties.
• Space Saving/Storage Requirements: Cantilever racks can be more space-efficient as they don’t require aisles.
• Strength and Durability: Pallet racks are typically stronger and more durable.
• Cost: Cantilever racks are usually more expensive than pallet racks, which are more cost-effective for a given amount of storage and space.
• Safety: Cantilever racks are considered safer than pallet racks as they don’t have protruding beams. However, heavy-duty cantilever shelving must meet stringent safety guidelines.

Choosing Between Cantilever Racking and Pallet Racking
The type of business you run will significantly influence your racking system choice. Cantilever racking is ideal for businesses dealing with long, bulky, or irregularly shaped items like lumber, pipes, or steel beams. Conversely, pallet racking is better suited for businesses dealing with a variety of goods due to its versatility.

Contact Us for Cantilever and Pallet Racking Solutions
If you require a cantilever or pallet racking system for your business, we can assist. With industry experience, we offer ideal warehouse storage solutions to our customers across a variety of sectors. We provide a variety of racking systems to meet your business needs. Contact us today

to learn more or to book a pallet rack inspection.