Cantilever racks serve as practical storage solutions, yet they might not be ideal for every business scenario. Below are some concise guidelines to assist in determining whether this system aligns with your needs.
What Am I Storing?
Cantilever racks are well-suited for storing long, bulky items that do not come on pallets, such as lumber, piping, steel bars, tubing, or furniture. The absence of a front column facilitates easy loading and unloading, especially for irregularly shaped materials. These racks are also effective for storing palletized materials.
The primary benefit of cantilever racks is their efficient loading and unloading compared to standard options, and the lack of a front column maximizes storage space while minimizing required clearance. However, for smaller items, there are other storage solutions available that offer no distinct advantage, particularly when considering the associated modification costs.
How Long Will I Be Storing It?
Cantilever racks are designed without shelving. Certain items, like tubing, may deform over time when stored on these systems due to the lack of center support. Wood products can especially be problematic if the rack isn’t adjusted correctly, as wood may deform with prolonged storage. Lumber pieces and pallet supports at the bottom of a cantilever rack might bow and eventually break.
To prevent these issues, cantilever arms can be equipped with brackets to hold support bars, allowing for the installation of wire decks at each level. This setup provides complete longitudinal support for your inventory.
📚 Also Read: Environmental Benefits of Cantilever Racks
What Warehouse Organization Would Require Modification?
While cantilever racks offer increased storage capacity compared to traditional racks and enable more racks to fit into a given space, transitioning entirely to them necessitates careful design considerations. Ensure thorough comprehension of the clearance requirements for your machinery and the spatial needs of your facility. Additionally, personnel must receive training on proper loading and usage of cantilever racks. It’s crucial to account for these training costs in your planning process.
What Add-Ons Would I Need?
Apart from the need for decks to accommodate small items, cantilever racks also need modification to support spools of material. If intended for outdoor storage, they should also include roofs. It’s important to factor in the cost of any required modifications for your materials before investing in a cantilever rack.
FAQ’s
What types of items are suitable for storage on cantilever racks?
Cantilever racks are ideal for storing long, bulky items that do not come on pallets, such as lumber, piping, steel bars, tubing, or furniture. They are also effective for storing palletized materials.
Are there any potential issues with storing certain items on cantilever racks?
Yes, certain items, like tubing, may deform over time due to the lack of center support in cantilever racks. Additionally, wood products may deform if the rack isn’t adjusted correctly, especially with prolonged storage.
What modifications might be necessary for warehouse organization when using cantilever racks?
Transitioning entirely to cantilever racks may require careful design considerations. It’s essential to understand the clearance requirements for machinery and the spatial needs of the facility. Personnel will also need training on loading and usage, which should be factored into planning.
Are there any add-ons or modifications needed for specific storage needs?
Yes, for storing small items, decks may be required. Additionally, modifications may be necessary to support spools of material. If the racks are intended for outdoor storage, roofs should also be considered. It’s crucial to factor in the cost of these modifications before investing in cantilever racks.
Conclusion
Cantilever racks provide efficient storage solutions for businesses handling long, bulky items or palletized materials. However, careful consideration of suitable items, potential issues, required modifications, and add-ons is essential before adopting this system. By evaluating these factors, businesses can make informed decisions to optimize their storage solutions effectively.