Improve Warehouse Operation Efficiency With Cantilever Racks

Do you often face the problem of how to store long materials, ring materials, plates and irregular goods efficiently and safely? Choosing the right type of rack can optimize storage capacity, improve accessibility and maintain a safe working environment. It can improve space utilization and access efficiency. Cantilever racks are increasingly favored by companies and e-commerce sellers as an efficient storage solution. However, many managers do not have a deep understanding of cantilever racks and have many questions about their applicability, installation and maintenance. This article will answer common questions about cantilever racks and provide professional advice to help you make an informed decision.

What is cantilever racking?

Cantilever racking is a unique storage system that consists of columns and cantilevers that can be fixed to the columns to store long goods such as strips, plates, pipes, etc. Cantilever racking is a popular solution for storing long, large or irregularly shaped items. This rack design allows for storage and retrieval of items directly from the side of the rack, making it ideal for warehouse environments where space is limited or quick access is required.

Unlike traditional racking units that have vertical supports at the front and back, cantilever racking features a unique design with no front support, making it easier to load and unload items. The structure of a cantilever rack consists of a series of vertical uprights and horizontal arms. These arms extend outward like a "cantilever", providing support without obstructing the front of the rack. This open front design makes it easy to store and retrieve long or bulky items, making cantilever racking a popular choice for warehouses, manufacturing plants, and distribution centers.

What are the parts of a cantilever racking system?

Uprights

The vertical support structure of the rack, usually with adjustable holes to accommodate different lengths of cantilevers. Vertical support beams that secure the racking system to the ground. The height and capacity of the uprights determine the load-bearing capacity of the cantilever rack.

Base

The base provides stability to the uprights and supports the overall weight of the racking system. The base is bolted to the floor to prevent tipping or movement.

Arm/Cantilever

A horizontal beam extending from an upright post, a horizontal structure fixed to the upright post, used to carry goods. The arm is adjustable to accommodate different load sizes and is available in a variety of lengths and load-bearing capacities. It can be square tube, cold-rolled steel or H-beam, and the cantilever is plug-in or bolted to the upright post.

Bracket

The bracket connects the upright post to increase stability and prevent swaying. They can be horizontal, diagonal or a combination of both, depending on the rack design and load requirements.

Deck (optional)

Although not always required, a deck can be added to the arm to create a flat surface for storing smaller items or loose materials.

Safety accessories

Such as corner guards, guardrails, etc., used to protect the safety of goods and operators.

Base

Bolted to the upright post, the base is usually made of cold-rolled steel or H-beam.

What are the types of cantilever racks?

Cantilever racks can be divided into the following types according to their structure and purpose to meet different storage needs.

Single-sided cantilever racks

These racks are placed against the wall and have a cantilever on only one side. Suitable for the storage of long goods with easy access from one side. They are ideal for maximizing the use of space around the warehouse perimeter.

Double-Sided Cantilever Shelves

These shelves have cantilevers on both sides of the uprights, allowing items to be accessed from both sides. They are often used in open warehouse spaces and suitable for environments with limited space to maximize storage capacity.

Heavy Duty Cantilever Shelves

Designed to carry heavy items such as steel pipes, lumber and large pallets. These shelves have reinforced arms and columns and can support considerable weight.

Light Duty Cantilever Shelves

Suitable for storing lighter items such as plastic pipes, tubes or light furniture parts. They are more cost-effective and easier to install than heavy duty shelves.

Mobile Cantilever Shelves

Cantilever shelves with wheels for easy movement and repositioning.

What are the uses of cantilever shelves?

Wood Storage

Ideal for storing long pieces of wood and boards without the need for horizontal support.

Pipe and Tube Storage

Ideal for storing pipes, tubes and other long metal or plastic parts used in construction or manufacturing.

Furniture Storage

Cantilever racks are commonly used to store and display furniture such as sofas, chairs and mattresses in warehouses and showrooms.

Metal and Plastic Sheets

These shelves can accommodate large pieces of metal or plastic sheets and are suitable for metal processing and plastic manufacturing industries.

Cantilever racks are widely used in the machinery manufacturing industry, building materials supermarkets and other fields, and are particularly suitable for storing long materials, ring-shaped materials, plates, pipes and irregular goods. After adding shelves, cantilever racks are also particularly suitable for warehouses with small space and low height, which are convenient to manage and have a wide field of vision.

Pros and Cons of Cantilever Racks

Before deciding whether cantilever racks are right for your warehouse, it is important to consider its pros and cons:

Pros:

Easy to use: The open front design allows for easy loading and unloading of items without causing obstructions. The design allows for quick and direct access, improving work efficiency.

Versatile: A variety of long, large or irregularly shaped items can be stored.

Customizable: Available in different sizes, capacities and configurations to meet specific needs.

Space-saving: Maximize the utilization of vertical space in the warehouse.

Durable: Heavy-duty options are designed to withstand considerable weight.

Stable structure: strong load-bearing capacity, ensuring the safety of goods.

Strong load-bearing capacity: single arm can bear up to 1000kg, and the specially reinforced column structure can withstand 2000~3000kg of pressure.

Disadvantages:

Customization

Need to be customized according to the size of the goods, which may increase the cost.

Higher cost

Due to its special design, cantilever racks may be more expensive than traditional racks.

Floor anchoring required

Need to be properly installed and anchored to the floor to prevent tipping, which may require additional labor and cost.

Limited applicability: mainly suitable for long goods, not suitable for goods of other shapes. It is easy to limit the use of small items, and it is not suitable for small and loose items unless a deck is added.

High requirements for the construction site ground and worker operation

Requires a flat, solid ground and professional operating skills.

What other types of racks are there?

Pallet racks

Commonly used to store pallet goods. They provide excellent access for forklifts and are height-adjustable.

Mezzanine racks

A multi-layer racking system that maximizes the use of vertical warehouse space. Ideal for storing smaller items or creating additional storage areas.

Wire Shelving

Lightweight and versatile, wire shelving is ideal for storing lighter goods and improving visibility and air circulation.

Boltless Shelving

Boltless shelving is easy to assemble and adjust, making it ideal for general storage needs in a warehouse or office environment.

Why Cantilever Shelving?

Cantilever shelving is an efficient and versatile solution for businesses and e-commerce sellers who need to store long, large, or irregularly shaped items. It is designed for maximum space utilization, easy access, and custom options for specific warehouse needs.

How does ChinaDivision ensure safe and efficient warehouse storage?

At ChinaDivision, we prioritize warehouse safety and efficient storage solutions for all of our customers. Our experienced team can help you select the right type of shelving, provide proper installation and maintenance guidance, and provide a full range of order fulfillment and logistics services to ensure your supply chain runs smoothly.

Contact ChinaDivision today to learn more about our customizable warehousing solutions to ensure your warehouse operations are efficient and safe.