Misconceptions About Pallet Racks  

By: Larry Rausch – Vice President – CBF Industries

This post is intended to provide you with helpful information regarding some common misconceptions of pallet racking systems.  Over the years we have heard customer comments that range from they are too expensive to pallet racking systems fall down. Let’s explore these myths in more detail.

With literally thousands of warehouse operations across the world, there are bound to be some myths that have injured their reputation. In this post we will be talking about misinformation that gets around, whether it’s from the loaders or pickers or the warehouse managers themselves. Let’s take a look at some of these misconceptions and replace them with the truth.

Some Pallet Racks Simply Fall Down

Pallet racks fall down. Unfortunately, this type of gossip has helped perpetuate the myth that warehouse racking is unstable.

In most every instance, it is an outside force that made pallet racks fall, and nearly every time it’s a forklift or other type of loader. But when used properly, warehouse racking is incredibly sturdy and won’t fall down on its own. By used properly we mean that every weight restriction and all loading instructions are adhered to, and all employees are properly trained to work with them.

Can racking systems “just fall down”? If you purchased used warehouse racking that’s been mistreated or hire a bargain-basement installer, there is a chance that time and weight will eventually tear the molecules in the metal apart. But if you go with reputable warehouse consultants, seller, and installers, you shouldn’t have anything to worry about.

Osha Will Turn A Blind Eye

It is critical that you ensure your systems are up-to-snuff, you can’t ignore your racking system and either will OSHA. They will be checking to make sure that it’s still safe, and they’re not going to hesitate to give you a fine if they find that warehouse racking is in danger of collapse. Their reach doesn’t end with the pallet racks, though, but extends to everything in the warehouse that could affect an employee. This could include materials handling systems, conveyor systems, mezzanine decks, racking ladders and landings, and modular offices.

The best way to stay ahead of OSHA is to contact a pallet rack inspection company. They’ll be able to address small problems before they become bigger problems, and make sure that your warehouse remains a safe place. It certainly beats the fines that OSHA can levy.

They Are Too Expensive

Pallet racks are not the cheapest of items. Yes, they represent a considerable outlay of money at first, but they’re certainly worth it as an investment in your company.

While they are on the expensive side, considering what they do for you, they’re more than worth it. They increase efficiency in a warehouse, allowing you to not only keep more inventory on hand, but also keeping everything in better order so that you can find it faster. Like replacing all your incandescent bulbs or installing low flow toilets, new racking systems eventually pay for themselves. Of course, new pallet racks also increase safety, which means that your employees are in less danger and OSHA is less likely to come knocking.

When you look at the price of a new racking system, industrial conveyor system, or other type of materials handling system, remember that they are capital equipment and can therefore be written off as such on your taxes. Investing in your business doesn’t look so bad when you realize the tax savings.

Once Installed, Pallet Racks Are Permanent

First, keep in mind that your warehouse layout design was intended for your current work methods. If a business pivots from consumer-facing to B2B, then their need for conveyor systems might go away. Companies can change focus over the years, which means that their needs in warehouse storage solutions do as well.

But here is the good news, warehouse racking can be disassembled and reassembled to meet your new needs. It can be bought, sold, added on to, taken away from, and changed to meet your needs.

Conclusion

Simple steps can be taken to minimize the misconceptions about pallet racks.  The truth is, pallet racks have been around for decades and proven to be the best alternative to warehouse storage solutions.

We hope this post provided you helpful information as it relates to understanding the realities of today’s pallet racking systems. To speak with one of our technical experts, please call 1-216-229-9300. And thank you for reading our post.