Cantilever rack is often used to store large and bulky items that can’t be easily stored in other types of racking or shelving, such as lumber, pipes, wiring, drywall, doors, and windows. Due to its open design and customizable structure, cantilever rack offers a lot of versatility.
A basic cantilever rack structure consists of two uprights attached to bases, a brace set that is bolted between the two uprights, and arms attached to the uprights. The arms can be attached horizontal or inclined depending on the type of load. It is also possible to have arms attached to only one side of the uprights or both depending on the available space and storage needs. The main difference between cantilever rack and pallet rack is that cantilever doesn’t have any vertical supports outside of the system. To learn more about cantilever rack configuration and installation, refer to our informative guide.
Customizing Cantilever Rack to Work for Your Warehouse
Cantilever rack is highly customizable to fit a lot of applications, but before customizing your cantilever rack there are a few things to take into consideration. Make sure to examine your inventory and how it changes seasonally and over periods of time. Also, consider your operations and fulfillment processes. Whether you will need easy access to all sides of the rack is an important determinant of how the rack should be installed. Cantilever racks can be installed against a wall, or with both sides exposed for easier access and increased capacity.
Using Decking to Get More Out of Your Cantilever Rack
If your inventory changes often, and you’re looking to get more versatility out of your cantilever rack, there are additional ways to customize it to your needs. Outfitting your cantilever rack with decking allows you to store palletized inventory and smaller, light-duty items. It also increases your storage density. Here are the types of decking you can use with cantilever rack:
Wire Mesh Decking
Wire mesh decking is a durable solution that offers maximum visibility. Wire decking is very easy to install and remove. It can be placed directly on the arm supports. But before you install it make sure that the uprights are flipped 90 degrees to support the decking. Adding wire decking to cantilever rack results in shelving without any obstructions. This maximizes your storage density and allows for high visibility.
Wire mesh decking comes in widths of 34” to 70” and depths of 24” to 60”. With many size options, it is easy to fit it to the entire length and width of your cantilever rack. Making sure that the decking is a good fit increases the stability and safety of your rack. To make it easier to load and unload items, a bull nose can be added to the front of the racking, creating a more smooth transition.
Wire mesh is highly durable and can be purchased used for a lower cost. New wire decking from American Storage and Logistics comes with a one-year warranty.
Particle Board Decking
Particle board decking is the most cost-effective decking solution. It is a good fit for lighter-weight loads as it has a lower weight capacity than other types of decking. Make sure to verify the weight capacity of the decking you use before using it.
Particle board decking comes in 36” and 48” width options, and 12” to 30” depth options, and can also be purchased new or used.
Steel Decking
Steel decking is heavy duty and works best for instances where heavy palletized or unpalletized products are being stored. Steel decking often lays across the top of the cantilever arms similar to particle board decking. There are different versions of steel decking, for example, some come with holes and there are also different gauges of steel available.
Things to Consider When Adding Decking to Your Cantilever Rack
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Make sure to check fire codes in your area before purchasing decking. Certain cities require you to have wire mesh decking installed if you are using shelving or racking that is above a certain height. This ensures that overhead sprinklers are unobstructed.
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Take into account the load capacity of your decking to ensure that the weight of the items will be supported. Cantilever rack arms typically have a 2,000 to 3,000 lbs load capacity. But keep in mind that the weight capacity of the decking might be lower depending on the type.
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An alternative to decking is installing rails that go across the cantilever rack arms. Items such as garment bags can be hung from the rails to create a more diverse storage option.
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Cantilever racks that are outfitted with decking provide increased accessibility, but items stored on them can also become dislodged easier than other, more closed-type racking or shelving. Make sure to take the necessary safety precautions. Learn more about cantilever rack safety here.
How to Get Started with Cantilever Racking?
Cantilever racking is a great way to maximize your storage density and accommodate products that are bulky and oddly shaped. If you are on the market for cantilever racking, you can either configure your system requirements and purchase each part individually, or start with a kit. American Storage and Logistics has been a leader in new and refurbished warehouse equipment for over 50 years. View our entire collection online; including cantilever starter and adder bays in different sizes and with various load capacities. Our online inventory is ready for shipping or next business day local delivery. You can also contact us to speak with a sales representative.
