How Much Weight Can a Rack System Hold?

While this is one of the most frequently asked questions, the answer is unfortunately, &#;it depends&#;.  How much weight a rack system can hold depends on a number of factors including:

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Load Beam Capacity:

The first step in determining a rack system capacity is what weight can each pair of beams hold.  Beam capacity varies depending on beam material, height and construction materials.  Most manufacturers provide standard load tables that can be used as a guideline.  Published capacity charts are generally based on evenly distributed loads but do not take into account seismic or other special criteria.

Upright Capacity:

While determining individual beam capacities are fairly straightforward, determining upright capacity is much more involved.  First the engineer will look at the distance between the beam levels&#;Although counter intuitive, a system with 96&#; spacing between beam levels may have significantly less capacity than a system with only 48&#; between beam levels.  We have seen cases where removing a beam level can reduce the capacity of the system from 2,500 lbs./pallet to 1,500 lbs./pallet.  The engineer will then look at the total number of levels to be supported, the upright frame design, whether the frames are braced back to back, plus other factors.

Slab and Seismic Considerations:

The evaluation is further complicated when slab and seismic considerations are taken into account.  Because the rack system will be anchored to slab, the thickness of the slab, soil and other characteristics must be taken into account.  In addition, in virtually every state in the union, building permits are required and seismic considerations will have an impact on the rack design often requiring significant strengthen of the system to withstand seismic forces.  Rack designed for high seismic (California and even Memphis), is normally made from much stouter material than non-seismic rack (Texas).

Always Use a Qualified Engineer:

Since there is no simple answer to rack capacity, always check with a qualified rack design engineer.  The engineer will have the experience and calculation tools to ensure that the system that you select will provide years of safe operation.  Insist on written calculations, accompanied by LARC drawings that show the specific configuration that you are installing.  Stamped and sealed drawings are normally required to complete the building permit process.

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Pallet rack capacity is a crucial factor to the safety of your warehouse. It is important to ensure that both the racking frames and beams are designed to hold the required weight to avoid a possible collapse.  When calculating the pallet rack capacity, there are several elements to take into consideration.

The first element to consider is the load, or the pallet size, dimensions, contents and type of pallet. How much weight will be placed on each level? How tall and deep will each pallet be? Height, weight and depth are important factors in making sure the beams are being uniformly loaded. The beams must be able to support the weight.

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For example, if you have two pallet loads of lbs. each, your rack beam capacity will need to be at least lbs. per pair of beams to support the load. Beam capacities can vary by manufacturer. It is important to refer to the manufacturer&#;s load capacity chart when selecting your beams.

Next you will need to determine the number of beam levels per bay, along with the beam spacing.  If your facility will have multiple bay configurations you need to ensure that each configuration is evaluated. Capacity ratings for rack frames are rated based on a maximum unsupported span. Meaning, the further apart the beam spacing the less capacity the frame is rated to hold.

For example, if you have a 16&#; tall frame, with (4) beam levels rated at 3,000 lbs. each, the total frame capacity need will be 12,000 lbs. The spacing of the beams may impact the frame design. If the maximum distance between levels is 8&#;, then the gauge of the frame will most likely be increased as opposed to a configuration where the maximum distance is 4&#;.

There are several factors that impact the capacity ratings for both frames and beams. The strength of the steel used to fabricate the racking components has a significant impact.  Steel thickness, or gauge, will also impact the capacity of these components. Also, each manufacturer will have different section properties that affect their rated capacities.

You should consider slab and soil conditions, seismic requirements, and potential rack damage when designing your storage system. To ensure your system is safe and compliant with all applicable building codes, consult a professional.

Now that you have a better understanding of rack capacities, we&#;d appreciate the opportunity to help you with the next step in your research, whether that be more information or a quote request.

Fill in the &#;Submit Your Inquiry&#; form to give us a better idea of your needs. We&#;ll then contact you to help with any further questions or requirements you have.

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit how to determine rack capacity.