7 Steps to Used Pallet Rack Success
How to Know If Used Rack is the Way to Go
Steel pallet rack systems are built to last. Often, they even outlast the business or purpose they were designed to support. When that happens, the rack is dismantled and sold as a unit or for parts, which can be a big cost-saver for someone looking to build or expand operations. Used pallet rack can save upwards of 50% vs new depending on component style and size, plus the rack is readily available to ship and install quickly. However, jumping into what seems like a “great deal” can be a costly mistake. Here are 7 important questions to consider when shopping for pre-owned pallet racking.
Do Your Homework – Used Pallet Rack 101
1. Purchase from a Reliable Source
The seller should have extensive industry experience with a track record of success. A reputable seller knows pallet rack and will be able to certify the quality of the used rack. Request engineered calculations with the rated load capacity of the system when it was manufactured. If calculations aren’t available, you may be able to obtain the information from published capacity tables if the part numbers are provided.
Examine the current inventory and see if the products available meet your requirements. If needed, ask if they can source additional materials for you. Lastly, ask if they have in-house installation teams, as well as rack inspection and repair professionals to provide future maintenance.
2. Know What Type Of System Is Best For Your Needs
There is a lot to choose from when shopping for used pallet rack systems. Standard selective rack is the most abundant, but high-density drive-in and even dynamic systems such as push-back and pallet flow can be found. See if the seller can advise you as to which system may best satisfy your storage goals.
3. Confirm Racking Meets Accepted Industry Safety Standards
A reputable supplier will inspect the rack system components for damage caused by equipment strikes or overloading. Confirm that there aren’t any loose, broken or missing components and that the system wasn’t previously repaired improperly. Rust can be a nothing or a concern depending on where it is and the extent of it. Confirm that any areas of rust do not pose a safety concern. If desired, ask if the supplier has refurbishing services that can clean up the rack before shipping.
4. Inspect Before You Buy
If you’ve done your homework up to this point, it’s important to take the next step and inspect the pallet rack materials before you buy. With the great technology we have literally at our fingertips, this step can be much easier than in years past. However, use your best judgment as to whether the system and purchase are significant enough to require an in-person visit vs. a live Skype or Facetime. Your inspection should keenly focus on rust, bending, and welded components like beam connector plates and baseplates.
5. Price Replacement Parts
Consider that it may be more economical to purchase a mix of new and used components for your next pallet rack project. For example, new uprights can be paired with pre-owned beams as a cost-effective way to ensure you get the best system to meet your needs in terms of height and structural design. Additionally, uncommon or discontinued brands may prove difficult to source and can add to the overall system cost. Use the Apex Punching Guide to find the best match for your new-to-you pallet rack system.
6. Compromise Elsewhere… Not on New Hardware
The nuts and bolts of the system are vital in making the right connections. Building the system and affixing shelving, decking, rails and accessories should be done with quality hardware pieces for the proper fit and snug connections. You will likely save on installation costs with new hardware as well because it is clearly marked and in perfect condition vs searching for the right pieces in useable shape.
7. Don’t Ship Away Savings
Request that the pallet rack components be packed efficiently to maximize truck space and be sure to source the pre-owned materials nearest to the job site to save costly shipping expenses.
Confirm Used Rack is the Best Way to Go
Remember, used rack is, well… used rack. It will often have scratches, stickers, and dust. It can be painted to match your existing racking. However, refurbishing costs will reduce the savings gained from buying pre-owned systems or components. Again, purchasing from a trusted source will help you determine the most cost-effective and productive course for your rack system needs.
The Apex family of companies is your one-stop shop for all things material handling. From new, used, and refurbished pallet racking to engineering, installation, inspection, and repair services, vehicles, and equipment too. Streamline your warehouse operations by working with a trusted full-service provider. Our large stock of used pallet racking is strategically staged in four regional locations to service the West and Midwest and the East Coast and Southern regions. We conduct safety inspections of all the used racking we bring in to ensure it meets the latest industry-accepted racking design codes. Call Apex today or visit our inventory page.
