When it comes to efficient and organised storage solutions, cantilever and shop shelving systems stand out as essential components for warehouses and various industrial settings. Alser UK Ltd, with decades of expertise in supplying and installing cantilever racking, offers insights into the best practices and benefits of these storage systems. This article delves into the details of cantilever and shop shelving, highlighting their applications, advantages, and how they enhance warehouse usability and efficiency.

The Basics of Cantilever Racking

Cantilever racking is specifically designed to store and display long, awkward items in a horizontal position, optimising space and providing easy access. This racking system is highly versatile and can be used in a range of industries, including builders’ merchants, warehouses, ironmongeries, DIY stores, and hardware stores. Cantilever racks are ideal for storing oversized, bulky, and awkwardly shaped stock such as long pipes, plasterboards, and lengths of timber.

Key Features of Cantilever Racking:

  • Horizontal Storage: Perfect for long items, minimising space requirements.
  • Simple Assembly: Easy to build, based on a starter and extension bay system.
  • Adjustable Arms: Arms adjust every 75 mm, allowing flexibility in storage configurations.
  • Durability: Made from galvanised frames with a strong epoxy finish, ensuring longevity and robustness.
  • Capacity: Frame capacities up to 2200 kg, with arm capacities up to 600 kg.
  • Variety: Available in single or double-sided configurations, with multiple heights, depths, and widths.

Components and Structure

Cantilever racking systems consist of several critical components:

  • Columns: Vertical upright columns to which arms are affixed.
  • Arms: Horizontal arms attached at variable heights, supporting the load.
  • Brace Frames: Provide additional stability and load capacity.
  • Integral Base: Supports the overall structure.

The arms can be adapted to specific load-bearing requirements, making cantilever racking highly customisable. This flexibility allows for efficient use of space and easy access to stored items, which is essential for optimising warehouse operations.

Advantages of Cantilever Racking

  1. Versatility: Cantilever racking systems can store various types of long, bulky items such as pipes, timber, steel tubes, panel products, and PVCu profiles. Their design allows for easy adjustment, accommodating different product sizes and types.
  2. Accessibility: The open-ended structure offers 100% accessibility, facilitating easy picking and handling of items. This feature is particularly beneficial in environments where quick access to stored goods is crucial.
  3. Space Optimisation: By allowing items to be stored horizontally and stacked above each other, cantilever racking maximises the utilisation of available space. This is particularly useful in warehouses with limited floor space.
  4. Durability: Constructed from high-quality galvanised steel, cantilever racking is resistant to rust and damage, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. This durability ensures a long service life and reduces maintenance costs.
  5. Safety: Cantilever racking systems are designed with safety in mind. Features such as end stops and roll-off protection prevent items from falling off, while the robust construction ensures stability even under heavy loads.

Applications of Cantilever Racking

Cantilever racking is used across various industries due to its adaptability and efficiency in storing long and bulky items. Some common applications include:

  • Builders’ Merchants and Timber Yards: Ideal for storing timber, pipes, and other construction materials.
  • Metal Storage: Suitable for storing steel pipes, aluminium sheets, and wrought iron railings.
  • Panel Products: Efficient for storing large, flat items such as drywall and plywood.
  • Distribution Centres: Enhances storage capacity and accessibility for a variety of goods.

Shop Shelving Solutions

In addition to cantilever racking, shop shelving systems play a crucial role in retail environments. These shelving solutions are designed to maximise product visibility and accessibility, enhancing the shopping experience for customers.

Benefits of Shop Shelving:

  • Increased Visibility: Products are displayed prominently, making it easier for customers to find what they need.
  • Organisation: Helps in keeping the store organised, with designated areas for different product categories.
  • Flexibility: Adjustable shelves allow for customisation based on the size and quantity of products.
  • Durability: Made from sturdy materials, shop shelving can withstand the demands of a busy retail environment.

Choosing the Right Racking System

Selecting the appropriate racking system involves considering several factors:

  • Product Weight and Size: The racking must be able to support the weight and dimensions of the stored items.
  • Space Availability: The available space in the warehouse or retail area will determine the type and configuration of the racking system.
  • Access Requirements: Consider how frequently items need to be accessed and choose a system that facilitates easy retrieval.
  • Future Needs: The racking system should be adaptable to future changes in inventory or storage requirements.

Installation and Safety

Proper installation is critical to ensuring the safety and effectiveness of cantilever racking systems. It is recommended that installation be conducted by SEMA qualified installers (Storage Equipment Installers Registration Scheme) to ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations.

Safety Considerations:

  • Load Distribution: Ensure that the load is evenly distributed across the arms.
  • Stability: The racking must be securely anchored to prevent tipping or collapsing.
  • Regular Inspections: Conduct regular inspections to identify and address any potential safety hazards.

Conclusion

Cantilever and shop shelving systems are essential for optimising storage and improving efficiency in warehouses and retail environments. Their versatility, durability, and ability to maximise space make them an invaluable asset for any organisation with complex storage needs.

Should your pallet racking requirements be simple or complex, you will benefit from our vast knowledge of maximising warehouse usability and efficiency. Alser UK Ltd promotes and adheres to SEMA design and safety standards. Adjustable pallet racking is installed to provide one of the best warehouse storage solutions available. With our extensive experience in supplying and installing cantilever racking, we ensure that your storage solutions are tailored to meet your specific needs, enhancing both functionality and safety in your operations.