Introduction
Storing long, bulky or irregularly shaped materials can be challenging with conventional pallet racking. Steel pipes, timber, metal profiles, plastic sheets and structural sections often require a different storage approach.
A cantilever racking system is designed to address this challenge by providing horizontal storage arms supported by vertical columns.
Unlike conventional pallet racking, cantilever systems do not require front upright columns at every storage position. This makes loading and retrieving long materials more convenient when the system is appropriately designed.
What Is a Cantilever Racking System?
A cantilever rack typically consists of:
- Vertical columns
- Horizontal support arms
- Bracing
- Base structures
- Appropriate anchoring and safety provisions
The arms project outwards from the columns and support the stored material.
Systems may be configured for single-sided or double-sided access, depending on the warehouse layout and storage requirements.
Which Materials Can Be Stored on Cantilever Racks?
Cantilever racks can be considered for:
- Steel pipes and tubes
- Timber and wooden boards
- Metal sections
- Plastic pipes
- Long construction materials
- Sheet materials, where the system is specifically configured for them
- Furniture components and other long products
The correct configuration depends on the dimensions, weight, rigidity and handling method of the materials.
Five Benefits of Cantilever Racking
1. Convenient access to long materials
The open-front design can simplify the placement and retrieval of long items.
2. Flexible storage lengths
Arm positions and rack configurations can be designed around different material dimensions, subject to engineering limits.
3. Better material organization
Separate storage positions can help organize materials by size, type, grade or order.
4. Improved floor-space management
A planned cantilever layout can reduce the need to leave long materials scattered across the warehouse floor.
5. Support for different handling methods
Depending on the load and design, materials can be handled manually or using suitable material handling equipment.
How to Choose the Right Cantilever Rack
Before selecting a system, determine:
Material dimensions: Measure the longest items and the variation in length.
Load weight: Establish the weight per item, bundle and storage arm.
Storage height: Consider the building height and the safe handling method.
Arm spacing: Select spacing appropriate for the material’s rigidity and support requirements.
Handling equipment: Confirm that forklifts or other equipment can access the materials safely.
Environment: Consider indoor or outdoor exposure and any corrosion-protection requirements.
Cantilever Racking vs Pallet Racking
Pallet racking is generally designed for palletized loads supported by beams. Cantilever racking is particularly useful for long or bulky materials that do not fit conveniently into standard pallet positions.
Neither system is universally better. The appropriate choice depends on the inventory and handling process.
Read more about industrial racking solutions for other storage applications.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storing loads beyond the approved capacity.
- Allowing materials to project into aisles without adequate clearance.
- Selecting arm spacing without considering the material’s support requirements.
- Using unsuitable equipment to handle long loads.
- Ignoring floor conditions, anchoring or impact protection.
Conclusion
Cantilever racking provides a practical storage option for long, bulky and irregularly shaped industrial materials. When properly engineered, it can improve organization, accessibility and material handling.
The key is to design the system around the materials rather than trying to force every product into a conventional pallet rack.
Planning a long-material storage area?
Explore Racks & Rollers Cantilever Racking or contact info@racksandrollers.com for assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can cantilever racks store heavy steel pipes?
They can be designed for suitable pipe loads, provided the arm, column, bracing and overall system capacities are appropriate.
Are cantilever racks suitable for forklifts?
Yes, in suitable configurations. The handling equipment, aisle width, load dimensions and operating procedure must be considered in the design.
Can cantilever racks be installed outdoors?
Outdoor installations may be possible, but the design must account for environmental exposure, corrosion protection, foundations and other site conditions.