Cantilever racking systems offer a unique solution for your storage needs.

These systems provide unparalleled flexibility and efficiently store long and bulky items such as timber, metal bars or pipes.

The absence of vertical supports on the outer edges allows easy access and organisation, which can significantly boost storage productivity.

One of the standout features of cantilever racking is its adaptability.

These systems can handle load requirements with light, medium and heavy-duty racking options.

Whether you need to store lightweight panels or heavy-duty steel bars, cantilever racking can be customised to meet your demands.

When it comes to installation and configuration, cantilever racking systems are user-friendly.

They consist of vertical uprights and arms that can easily adjust to fit different storage needs.

This makes them an excellent choice for businesses that maximise their storage efficiency and flexibility.

Design and components of cantilever racking systems

Cantilever racking systems are ideal for storing long and bulky items. They are designed with critical components, including uprights, bases, cantilever arms, and bracing mechanisms.

Uprights and bases

Uprights consist of vertical columns that form the backbone of the cantilever racking system.

They are essential for supporting the structure’s load-bearing capacity. The base of each upright must be securely bolted to ensure stability.

To create a storage bay, you typically need at least two uprights, which provide the necessary support for items.

These uprights can be single or double-sided, depending on your storage requirements.

Single-sided uprights are placed against walls, while double-sided ones are accessed from either side.

The material and construction of these components often use sturdy metals to ensure durability and safety.

Cantilever arms and bracing

Cantilever arms are the horizontal supports holding items you wish to store. They are the heart of the racking system.

Proper alignment and spacing of these arms are crucial to prevent deflection or bending of stored materials.

The arms are often adjustable, allowing you to change their position based on the size and type of items.

Bracing elements, which include diagonal and horizontal braces, add further stability to the racking system.

These bracing components help distribute the load evenly across the structure, preventing undue stress on particular points. They are vital for maintaining the integrity of the racking setup and ensuring safety during usage.

Materials and durability

Cantilever racking systems are designed for strength, long lifespan, and resistance to environmental factors. Two key aspects are the use of structural steel and the application of protective coatings.

Structural steel properties

Structural steel is a primary material in cantilever racking systems. It provides exceptional strength and durability, allowing the system to hold heavy and long items like pipes, timber and steel sheets.

The thickness and quality of the steel are crucial.

Benefits of structural steel

  • Strength: Can bear significant loads without bending.
  • Durability: Resistant to wear and tear in industrial settings.
  • Versatility: Suitable for various sizes and weights.

Steel also retains its properties in different temperatures, making it ideal for indoor and outdoor use.

Powder-coating or galvanisation

Cantilever racks often feature surfaces treated with powder-coating or galvanisation. These processes protect the steel from rust and corrosion.

Powder-coating:

  • Application: Powder is electrostatically applied and then cured under heat.
  • Benefits: Creates a uniform, durable and attractive finish.
  • Protection: Guards against scratches, chips and rust.

Galvanisation:

  • Process: Steel is dipped in molten zinc.
  • Benefits: Provides a thicker and longer-lasting barrier against corrosion.
  • Usage: Beneficial for outdoor racking systems where exposure to moisture is high.

By employing these materials and coatings, cantilever racking systems maintain their structural integrity and aesthetic appeal for extended periods.

Types and variations of racks

Cantilever racking systems come in various types and designs to suit different storage needs.

You can choose between single or double-sided racks, wall-mounted or free-standing options, and specifications for heavy-duty storage.

Single vs double sided racks

Single-sided racks are designed to be installed against a wall. They allow storage on one side only, making them ideal for facilities with limited floor space.

On the other hand, double-sided racks have a central column and provide storage on both sides. This maximises storage capacity and efficiency, particularly in larger warehouses or storage facilities.

Choosing between these two options depends on your available space and storage requirements.

Wall-mounted and free-standing options

Wall-mounted cantilever racks are fixed to the wall. They are suitable for storing lighter materials and can help save valuable floor space.

Wall-mounted racks are generally easier to install and can be more cost-effective.

Free-standing racks, however, do not require wall support. They rely entirely on a central column and base for stability and can handle heavier loads.

These are more flexible regarding placement as they can be set up in the middle of a storage area or warehouse.

Heavy-duty cantilever rack specifications

Heavy-duty cantilever racks are engineered to support substantial weights, often in industrial settings.

These racks are made from durable materials like hot-rolled steel profiles to withstand heavy loads and frequent use.

Key specifications:

  • Load capacity per arm: Can vary but often supports several tonnes
  • Arm length and spacing: Customisable to store items of various lengths
  • Base and column strength: Designed to provide stability for heavy loads

Consider the weight and dimensions of the items you plan to store to ensure that your heavy-duty cantilever rack meets your needs.

Functionality and accessibility

Cantilever racking systems provide flexible and accessible storage solutions for long, bulky or irregularly shaped items. They are easy to access and compatible with various handling equipment.

Ease of access for storage

Cantilever racking systems are designed without front columns, allowing easy access to stored items.

This design lets you load and unload items quickly, reducing handling time and associated costs.

The open structure also ensures that items are readily accessible.

Whether you store piping, timber or furniture, you can access each item effortlessly.

The absence of vertical obstructions facilitates direct retrieval, which is particularly useful in maximising storage capacity and minimising downtime.

Compatibility with handling equipment

These systems are compatible with handling equipment such as forklift trucks and cranes.

The open-facing design ensures smooth and efficient loading and unloading, enhancing operational efficiency.

The lack of front columns allows forklift trucks to manoeuvre easily within these racks.

This compatibility is essential for handling heavy or oversized items safely.

The system’s adjustability allows for better customisation, making it suitable for different storage needs and equipment capacities.

Storage and application uses

Cantilever racking systems are versatile and efficient for storing various items and maximising warehouse space. They are particularly useful for holding long and heavy items, different materials, and vertically stackable goods.

Storing long and heavy items

Cantilever racking is ideal for storing long, heavy items like timber, pipes and steel bars.

The structure consists of vertical solid columns and horizontal arms, allowing you to store items without needing obstructive vertical dividers.

Long items like tubes and beams can be placed on the extended arms, making accessing and retrieving them easier using forklifts or other lifting equipment.

This system can support a significant amount of weight, making it a reliable choice for heavy materials.

Advantages for different materials

Cantilever racking is highly adaptable for different materials, including furniture, rolls of carpet, and building materials.

Each type of material has unique storage requirements, and cantilever racking meets these needs by providing adjustable arms and varying arm lengths.

For example, cantilever racks are efficient for storing large pieces of furniture because they allow you to position and secure items without worrying about constraints.

Similarly, rolls of carpet can be stacked horizontally, maximising space and maintaining easy access.

Vertical storage and maximisation

One of the significant benefits of cantilever racking is its ability to maximise vertical storage space.

Using the height of your warehouse, you can store more items without taking up more floor space.

Cantilever racks allow goods to be stacked vertically, making the most of the available height.

This approach frees up valuable floor space for other operations or additional storage.

Items stored vertically remain easily accessible, which helps streamline warehouse processes and improve overall efficiency.

This system is especially beneficial for businesses handling awkwardly shaped or bulky items, providing organised and accessible storage without compromising space.

By optimising vertical storage, cantilever racking can enhance the functionality and productivity of your warehouse.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What considerations are needed for the safe installation of cantilever racks?

Safe installation involves ensuring the racks are level and secure. Anchoring to the floor is crucial to prevent tipping. All components must be correctly assembled and inspected regularly. At RackZone, we can design, supply and install pallet racking and commercial shelving to fit your requirements. For more details, see the RackZone warehouse shelving and pallet racking installation service.

Are there specific regulations about the anchoring of cantilever racks?

Specific regulations require that cantilever racks be securely anchored to prevent collapse. These regulations ensure safety and may vary by location. Complying with local building codes and safety standards during installation is essential. Contact us about our pallet racking and commercial shelving installation service. 

What are the benefits of using heavy-duty cantilever racks for storage?

Heavy-duty cantilever racks offer reliable storage for large, bulky items. They handle significant weights and provide easy access from multiple sides, making them ideal for storing timber, pipes and other long materials in warehouses and industrial settings.