Racking equipment is essential for optimizing storage space in warehouses and industrial settings. Did you know that the cost of pallet racking can range from $75 to $450 per pallet position? This wide range reflects the diversity of racking systems available, each tailored to specific needs and applications.
When you need to planning your new warehouse racking or build a high bay racking warehouse , pallet racking systems must adapted to your usage, like logistic warehouses, distribution centers, construction warehouse, cold storage warehouse. Each Warehouse should choose different of racking system.
Components and capacity can vary significantly and can depend on a lot of factors, from what you're stocking on them to how deep the beam is. That's precisely why Heda Shelves designs, manufactures and install custom pallet racking for our clients.
In this article, we will explore the various factors influencing the cost of racking equipment, from material choices to installation fees, so you can make informed decisions for your storage solutions.
The first, let's discover the load weight did your need for a pallet racking.
Pallet Racking Weight Limit Considerations
1. Beam Capacity
Types of Beams: There are two main types of beams used in pallet racking:
- Step Beams: These beams have a step design and generally provide lower load capacities due to their structure.
- Box Beams: These are rectangular and tend to offer higher load capacities due to their robust design.
Typical Capacity: A standard beam pair can typically support around 4 tonnes (approximately 8,800 lbs) per pair or 5 tonnes per level, depending on the design and materials used.
Types of Racking Equipment and Their Costs
| Type of Racking System | Overview | Cost per Pallet Location | Installation Cost (Additional) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Selective Racking | Most common type, allowing direct access to each pallet without moving others. Ideal for diverse products and high turnover. | $75 - $500 | 15% - 35% of equipment cost |
| Drive-In Racking | High-density storage that allows forklifts to load/unload from one side (LIFO). Suitable for bulk items but has lower selectivity. | $200 - $500 | 20% - 35% of equipment cost |
| Push-Back Racking | Stores pallets 2-5 deep on inclined rails, allowing LIFO access. Optimizes space and is good for high SKU environments. | $200 - $400 | 20% - 35% of equipment cost |
| Pallet Flow Racking | Utilizes roller tracks for FIFO inventory management, ideal for perishable goods. Ensures efficient stock rotation. | $200 - $400 | 20% - 35% of equipment cost |
Read More: How Much Does Pallet Racking Cost?
Factors Influencing Racking Costs
key factors influence these costs, including material types, design specifications, size and load capacity, and additional accessories.
Material Types: Steel Variations and Thickness
The choice of material significantly impacts racking costs.
- Cold-Rolled Steel: Generally less expensive than stainless steel, cold-rolled steel is produced through a process that enhances its strength and finish but may not offer the same level of corrosion resistance. Prices for cold-rolled sheets can range from $800 to $2,000 per ton depending on thickness and finish.
- Stainless Steel: This material is more costly due to its resistance to rust and corrosion, making it ideal for environments where hygiene is critical. The price of stainless steel varies significantly by grade; for instance, stainless steel 304 typically costs between $180 to $200 per kilogram, while thicker gauges can drive prices even higher.
- Thickness: Thicker materials generally incur higher costs. For example, a thicker stainless steel sheet will be more expensive than a thinner one due to the increased amount of raw material required
Design Specifications: Custom vs. Standard
The design of the racking system also plays a crucial role in determining costs.
- Custom Designs: Custom racking solutions tailored to specific needs are typically more expensive than standard configurations. Customization involves additional engineering and design work, which can significantly increase the overall project cost.
- Standard Configurations: These are generally more cost-effective as they do not require special design considerations and can be mass-produced. However, they may not always meet specific storage requirements effectively.
Size and Load Capacity
The dimensions and weight-bearing capacity of the racking system are critical factors influencing cost.
- Larger Racks: Racks designed to accommodate larger items or greater quantities will naturally cost more due to the increased amount of material used in their construction. For example, heavy-duty racks capable of supporting significant weight (upwards of 5,000 lbs per beam level) will be priced higher compared to standard racks
- Load Capacity: Systems designed for higher load capacities require stronger materials and construction methods, which increases their cost. For instance, a racking system with a higher weight capacity will utilize thicker beams and uprights, thus raising the overall price.
Additional Accessories Costs
Accessories can enhance the functionality and safety of racking systems but also add to the total cost.
- Safety Features: Accessories such as wire mesh decking, back stoppers, and upright protectors are essential for ensuring safety during operation. These items can range from $6.88 to $250 depending on their type and complexity
- Customization Options: Features like adjustable shelves or mobility enhancements (such as caster wheels) can also increase costs but provide flexibility in storage solutions.
Get custom pallet racking systems from Heda Shelves
As leading warehouse racking manufacturer, Heda Shelves offer talior solution from designs, supplies and installs in high-efficiency warehouse, including pallet racking. Whatever you're looking to store in your warehouse, our expert team can design pallet racking systems specific to your weight and needs. Contact our friendly team today.