Used pallet racking is a smart cost-saving investment that can improve warehouse operations. Used pallet racking systems are strong, durable, and cost significantly less than new equipment. Finding the right used pallet racking for your warehouse can be a worthwhile long-term investment.
However, while you may want to save money on used pallet racking, price shouldn’t be the only factor in your decision. It’s important to choose pallet racking that fulfills the needs of your storage space. Opt for high-quality materials and a purpose-built system for the type of goods you store to avoid problems concerning health and safety, productivity, and warehouse efficiency.
Before purchasing used pallet racking, here are some important things to keep in mind.
Find a Reliable Supplier
Buying any second-hand equipment comes with an element of risk. Damaged or worn racking may be hard to spot at a glance. Worn equipment is dangerous and is likely to need replacing much sooner than brand new racks. Finding a reliable supplier gives you peace of mind that you’re buying a quality used system with a credible history.
Shelving + Rack Systems, Inc. is a leading supplier of new and used pallet racking. We perform regular checks and inspections of our used equipment, ensuring it is kept in top condition and compliant with Rack Manufacturers Institute (RMI) and the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) industry standards.
As well as providing quality equipment, we can help with warehouse design, assembly and installation, project management, and other important storage challenges. We can recommend an affordable storage solution based on your goals, whether you want to improve material handling processes or increase the storage capacity of your warehouse.
What Type of Products Do You Store?
One of the most important factors in choosing the right used pallet racking is determining whether it can support the type of products you store.
Different types of pallet racking are designed for a certain size, shape, and weight of inventory. For example, our Series 2000 cantilever racks from Meco Omaha are mainly used to store large, bulky items, such as furniture or lumber, while our industrial boltless rivet racks are standalone storage options stocking small, manual access goods.
Always ensure the pallet racks you choose are a good fit for the type of products you store.
Structural Integrity of the Pallet Rack
Effective pallet racking doesn’t have to be aesthetically pleasing. However, it must be structurally sound. Always inspect the rack before agreeing on a purchase. If you’re unsure of what to look out for, ask the supplier about the product history, what it was used for, and if it has any replacement parts.
While you can accept some surface rust or minor dents to the beams, avoid major red flags. During your inspection, look for:
- Upright deflection
- Twisted columns
- Missing, loose, or damaged anchoring and footplates
- DIY repairs
- Damaged beams
- Incorrectly installed beam connectors
It’s also important to gauge the load capacity of the rack, determining whether it is capable of meeting your storage demands. Check the maximum load capacity label or plaque on the pallet racking bay. If this information is missing, you’ll need an engineer to test the unit’s load capacity to guarantee its safety.
Space Efficiency and Warehouse Layout
The warehouse layout and utilization of space heavily influence the productivity and efficiency of your facility. Your pallet racking system must fit the layout of your warehouse and use space effectively.
Depending on the nature of your business and the available space, you may need anything from a simple steel shelving storage solution to a more sophisticated carton flow rack system. Take measurements of your space beforehand to avoid buying an elaborate system that doesn’t fit your space or warehouse.
Vertical storage options, such as our Dyna Pallet Stacking Frames, are extremely space-efficient. They allow you to stack 2,000 lbs. up to four racks high, maximizing warehouse utilization without compromising floor space.
Upgrade Your Storage System With Used Pallet Racking
If you’re considering upgrading your warehouse storage system with used pallet racking, contact Shelving + Rack Systems, Inc. today. As experienced warehouse equipment providers, we’ve worked with businesses across a range of industries and understand the importance of finding a balance between cost-efficient and reliable storage solutions.
Browse our online catalog to view our full selection of equipment, or give us a call to discuss your racking options in more detail.
