Pallet Rack Selection Guide

Pallet Rack is the most versatile type of storage for large single items or palletized loads. This guide provides information needed to select pallet rack. However, before selecting any racking please check local ordinances, codes, and seismic requirements. Please call for more assistance 1-800-338-1382.

1. Determine the size of your pallet to be stored.
Example: 40"W x 48"D x 5-1/2" H.

2. Determine the overall load WxDxH. For the overall height, add the load and pallet heights together.
Example: load height 48" + pallet height 5-1/2" = 53-1/2" overall height. Overall load: 40"W x 48"D x 53-1/2"H.

3. Beam Width. Determine the width of your pallet/load and allow a minimum of 4" between the upright frame and the load and a minimum of 4" between loads. Example: to store (2) 40"W loads. 4 + 40 + 4 +40 =4 = 92" for the inside width, then you will need a 96" width beam. Make sure to check for loadover hang on pallet.
Beam Capacity. Multiply the weight of the pallet and load by the number of pallets per level.
Example: two pallets with a weight of 2,000 lbs per each level. 2000 lbs x 2 pallets per level = 4,000 lb beam capacity minimum requirement. Beams have a 1.65 safety factor. Most common beam widths: 48", 60", 72", 96", 108", 120", &144".

4. Upright Frame Depth. The depth of the upright frames should be your pallet depth (48") minus 6" (3" overhang in the front and 3" overhand in the back.)
Example: 48" - 6" = 42" deep upright frame.

5. Upright Frame Height. Determine the overall load height. Add a minimum of 6" clearance between top of load and next level of beams. Add the beam height and multiply total by the amount of upper levels required. (do not count floor level.)
Example: (4 shelf levels): 48"H + 6" (for clearance) + 4" (beam height) = 58" upper levels x 59 = 174" high upright frame requirement. Most common frame heights 8', 10', 12', 14', 16', 20'.

FOB: West Coast Warehouse.