What is the difference between Pallet Racking and Cantilever Racking?
Have you ever wondered how pallet racking and cantilever racking differ? Are you trying to decide which is best for your specific storage requirements? You’re not alone.
Both pallet racking and cantilever racking are common storage systems, however their exact uses can often be confused. It is important to understand which system is best suited to your needs before investing in either type of racking.
In this blog, you’ll discover how pallet racking and cantilever racking vary in terms of their uses, advantages and disadvantages.
When it comes to industrial storage solutions, pallet racking, and cantilever racking are two of the most common options available. Both systems are designed to maximise storage space and make the handling and movement of goods more efficient. However, they differ in terms of their design and functionality, making each system suitable for different types of storage needs.
What is Pallet Racking?
Pallet racking is a system that is specifically designed to store standard-sized pallets. These racks are usually made up of uprights and horizontal beams that form shelves for pallets to be stored on. They come in different configurations, such as single-deep, double-deep, and drive-in racking. The shelves are typically adjustable, allowing for customisation according to the size of the pallets being stored.
Pallet Racking Advantages
One of the main advantages of pallet racking is its ability to store large volumes of goods in a small space. This is because pallet racking is designed to accommodate standard-sized pallets, which can be stacked on top of one another to maximise vertical space. Additionally, pallet racking is a cost-effective storage solution, as it is relatively easy to install and requires minimal maintenance.
What is Cantilever Racking?
Cantilever racking is a system designed for the storage of long and awkward loads. These could include items such as steel bars, lumber, pipes, and other materials that are too long to fit on a standard pallet. Cantilever racking is made up of vertical columns that support horizontal arms or beams, which protrude out from the columns.
Cantilever Racking Advantages
The open-fronted design of cantilever racking allows for easy access and handling of long items, which would otherwise be difficult to store in a traditional pallet racking system. It can also be customised to accommodate different types of loads, with adjustable arms allowing for the storage of different lengths and weights of materials.
Comparing Price: Is Pallet Racking or Cantilever Racking more costly?
When it comes to cost, pallet racking is generally a more affordable option compared to cantilever racking. This is because pallet racking is a more standardised system that can be produced on a larger scale, resulting in lower manufacturing costs. Pallet racking also requires fewer components, which means that installation and maintenance costs are also lower.
In contrast, Cantilever racking tends to be more expensive due to its specialised design and construction. The system requires stronger components, including vertical posts and horizontal arms, which can increase manufacturing and installation costs.
Despite their differences, both pallet racking and cantilever racking are useful storage solutions that can help maximise space and increase your efficiency of material handling operations. Pallet racking is ideal for standard-sized pallets, providing a cost-effective and efficient way to store and transport goods while Cantilever racking is better suited to the storage of long and bulky items.
When choosing between pallet racking and cantilever racking, it is important to consider the type of materials being stored, as well as the available storage space and budget. While pallet racking is generally a more affordable option, cantilever racking may be a better choice for businesses that deal with long and awkward loads. Ultimately, the choice between the two systems will depend on your companies individual storage needs and requirements.
For more information you can view our product pages below:
SD Pallet Racking Systems
SD Cantilever Racking Systems
