Carolina Buyers – Is Mixing & Matching Pallet Rack Components the Way to Go?
How to Safely Expand Your Pallet Rack System by Mixing & Matching Components
The need to increase warehouse storage capacity always comes down to the same question… How do you do more with the same amount of space? One good option can be to increase the capacity of an existing pallet rack system. By getting inventory up vertically, you open up floor space for other uses and maximize your cube space. That sounds like the perfect solution, right? It can be, but there is a right and wrong way to implement pallet rack expansion.
Before you purchase pallet rack to add to your existing system, follow these steps to mix and match components safely: First, obtain a proper engineering review that includes stamped drawings and calculations. Next, select a reputable pallet rack design team with a good track record and reliable resources that will take all the necessary steps to integrate your new pallet rack system safely.
PALLET RACK MIX & MATCH WARNINGS/CAVEATS
System breakdown because of incompatible parts- Voided manufacturer warranty
- Invalid component capacities
- Incompatible connections
- Variance in length tolerance
- Permitting & insurance difficulties
System failure – The potential risk of system failure is the biggest concern with mixing pallet rack components from different manufacturers. The Rack Manufacturers Institute (RMI) states that system collapse often results from mixing and matching pallet rack components from different manufacturers. If you value the safety of your warehouse operation, it makes sense to start by ensuring that components are compatible.
Voided warranty – Check your rack warranty to see if it prohibits mixing products and components. This is often a warranty-buster because while products may look similar, it doesn’t mean they are. The differences can be what’s inside, i.e., variations in steel gauge that changes load capacity. Other differences may include trusses, beam connectors, bracing styles, and locking devices that may prove incompatible with your system.
Invalid component capacities – A manufacturer sets pallet rack load capacity based on the design of an entire system, not on individual components. Pallet rack system design considers pallet rack components along with the specific facility conditions (i.e., temperature and seismic), load specs, and equipment to ensure the system is safe for the intended use. This is where engineering design and stamped approval come into play.
Incompatible connections – A number of parts can be unsafe because of differences in column extensions, manufacturer beam connectors, safety pins, and bracing. Structural integrity is the cornerstone of a safe pallet rack system, and a reputable design and installation team will make all the right connections to ensure this.
Variance in length tolerance – Standard means standard, right? No. A slight beam variation from one manufacturer can cause a beam to sit incorrectly and necessitate a different locking device. You should ask your pallet rack design and installation team this essential question. In fact, ask all types of questions about construction and correct fit. Ensure that they can answer them and provide backup with approved engineering documents.
Permitting & insurance approvals – If you don’t want to create unnecessary stress, don’t mess up critical approval processes by the use of conflicting engineering and or building codes. Relax and contact the professional team at Apex.
Apex Punching Guide to Identify Pallet Rack Manufacturers’ Components
With a large variety of pallet rack system types, designs and manufacturers, it can be a feat to match uprights with compatible beams and locking mechanisms. One way to do this is to look at the punching patterns on each column. Check out our pallet rack punching guide for a thorough list (with illustrations) of all the major rack manufacturers and system punch designs. It’s a helpful tool when adding to an existing pallet rack system or buying used components.
Apex Carolinas is your local team for warehouse solutions. Our experts can guide you through the critical process for safe pallet rack system expansion, from engineering to installation. Our full-service capabilities mean that we have all your warehouse needs covered – whether you’re located in North Carolina or South Carolina. Give us a call today to discuss your needs, and we’ll find the best solution for you.
