Frequently Asked Questions About Pallet Racking Systems

Pallet racking systems are used in warehouses, distribution centers, and industrial complexes across the globe to store all kinds of items. From lumber and piping materials to everyday products, pallet racking systems are available in a variety of configurations to store these items and keep warehouses safe and organized. 

Installing a suitable pallet racking system for your storage requirements is crucial because it directly impacts the productivity and efficiency of your workplace. If you’re looking for high-quality pallet racks in Toronto with expert engineering and workmanship, then keep reading to get the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions in this field. 

How Does Pallet Racking Work?

Pallet racking systems are designed to maximize the available space in your warehouse. Pallet racking allows you to organize product inventory safely and securely so that it’s easy to find and accessible whenever it needs to be retrieved. Moreover, pallet racking systems can be custom designed to fit the space and weight capacities of your warehouse. Pallet racking systems are designed to fit into all types of spaces and accommodate a variety of product dimensions, weight capacities, and even expiry or best before dates. 

Pallet racking allows you to take full advantage of the vertical space in your warehouse so you can clear out more floor space to maneuver material handling equipment safely and with ease. 

How Much Weight Can Pallet Racks Hold?

Pallet rack load and weight capacities vary depending on the type of storage unit you have as well as the dimensions of the inventory in your warehouse. These storage units are composed of three core components: beams, uprights, and anchors. The distance between the beams dictates the load capacity of the uprights and this can be adjusted as needed. 

What Kind Of Forklift Do I Need For Pallet Racking? 

Choosing the right forklifts and material handling equipment is crucial for your warehouse operations. Forklifts come in a variety of designs, including cherry pickers, electric, fuel-operated, reach trucks, pallet jacks, pallet stackers, and many more. 

Different types of attachments are also available to accommodate various warehousing and order picking or maneuvering standards. When purchasing a forklift for your facility, consider the load capacity, lifting height limitations, operator positioning, tire composition, and motor type. 

Is Pallet Racking Safe For Warehouse Workers?

Yes. When pallet racks are properly installed and receive regular maintenance, they’re completely safe for warehouse workers. As long as your pallet rack installation, maintenance, and repair practices are in full compliance with the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety guidelines, then you shouldn’t have anything to worry about. 

How Much Does Pallet Racking Cost?

Storage racks in Toronto can vary in cost based on different factors, including your storage capacity requirements, the size of your warehouse, the amount of available floor to ceiling space, and the number or racks you need. The working conditions and environment in your facility also determine the type of pallet racks you need. 

Should I Buy Used Pallet Racking?

Used pallet racks in Toronto are a great cost-saving investment. Canadian Rack Technologies Inc. offers a wide range of both new and used pallet racks and storage units for warehouses and industrial facilities all across North America. 

All of our technicians are fully certified and licensed by Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO). We also have certifications to perform pre-health and safety reviews, which is required for all new and used pallet racking systems and material handling equipment by Ontario’s Ministry of Labour. 

What Are The Criteria For Installing Pallet Racking?

Several factors need to be considered when installing pallet racking systems for your warehouse. Take the time to assess your current storage capacity needs. As you go through your checklist of requirements, take note of any improvements or adjustments that need to be made to boost productivity, efficiency, and safety standards in your warehouse. Consider your future professional goals and create a flexible pallet racking configuration that accommodates vertical or horizontal expansion as needed. 

Can The Configuration Of The Pallet Racking System Be Changed After It’s Installed?

Yes, pallet racking configurations can be adjusted as you expand your business and increase your stock inventory. Working with a reputable and fully licensed pallet rack supplier in Toronto and the GTA gives you the flexibility and convenience of redesigning or reconfiguring the entire layout of your storage system to accommodate your current needs. 

How Do You Calculate Pallet Rack Load Capacity?

Pallet rack load capacity is calculated by simply dividing the number of cubic inches by 139. So, if your pallet measures 96,000 cubic inches, dividing it by 139 gives you a weight of 690 lbs.

What Is the Maximum Height for Pallet Racking Systems?

There is no fixed limit on the height of pallet racking. The maximum limit is generally defined by different factors, including the height of your building, the load capacity of your racking system, the weight of your load units, the fire prevention and control equipment installed on your ceilings and roof structures, and the type of rack you intend to use in accessing the stored items. The benefit of using a high racking system is that it allows you to use all the space in your warehouse.

The best way to determine the right height of your pallet rack is to consult a pallet racking company like Canadian Rack Technologies Inc. 

How Often Do Pallet Racks Require Inspection and Maintenance?

Generally, pallet racks need to be inspected by a competent outside source. It is also mandatory to have a program in place for your pallet rack system to be inspected monthly by an appointed employee. At Canadian Rack Technologies Inc., we recommend that you conduct safety inspections on a fixed schedule basis, depending on the level of usage the pallet rack undergoes. This could be every week or every two weeks or even monthly, as the case may be. By inspecting the racks frequently, it will allow you to spot any problems before they escalate to more critical ones, especially in high-traffic areas, cold environments, or where damages have occurred. 

Also, ensure your rack inspection is done at least once a year by an expert who will conduct a comprehensive inspection and give you a detailed report after every inspection. Here at Canadian Rack Technologies Inc., we have engineers that are fully licensed and authorized to inspect your pallet racking systems. 

How Can Pallet Racking Be Protected from Damage?

You can prevent damage to your racking systems if you do the following. 

• Train your employees. Proper training of your workers will reduce accidents and damage in your facility. 
• Use guards and frame protectors for your pallet racking. These things are not expensive but will save you tons of money and protect your pallet racks from damages caused by forklifts and other moving vehicles.
• Avoid overloading your pallet racking systems. Calculate the weight limit of your racking and do not exceed it. You can use the guideline above to calculate your pallet rack load capacity.  
• Inspect your racking frequently. Have an expert inspect your rack regularly to spot any damage to pallet racking that is not visible to you. Inspection is critical. Ensure you give the job to a competent and licensed inspector.

Do Pallet Racks Need to Be Bolted to the Floor?

Yes. Pallet racks need to be anchored to the floor.

What Type of Pallet Racking System Should I Use in My Warehouse?

There is no definite answer to this question, as the type of racking system you use will depend on many factors, such as the type, size, and shape of products you store. Cantilever racking systems are ideal for long and awkwardly shaped materials such as lumber and steel. Pallet racks using the FIFO method will be perfect for storing perishable items such as food items, while LIFO is ideal for non-perishable products. 

At Canadian Rack Technologies Inc., we can assist you in choosing the best racking solution for your warehouse.

Contact Canadian Rack Technologies Inc. today to learn more or to get a quote!