Cantilever racking can be incredibly useful in the warehouse environment. The system uses arms or braces locked into uprights to create an incredibly versatile storage space. It’s one piece of warehouse equipment that many warehouses disregard when it could end up saving them space and helping them process orders more efficiently. It’s not for everyone, though, and should really only be used in specific circumstances. Let’s look at the pros and cons of cantilever racking in order to determine if it could be a smart addition to your warehouse.

The Pros of Cantilever Racking

• Perfect for long, awkward inventory. If you have inventory that’s too long to fit on selective pallet racking, then cantilever racking is exactly what you need. It’s particularly good for things like lumber, PVC, or metal pipes.
• It moves inventory off of the floor. This can free up your floor space for other inventory storage systems, particularly if you can mount your cantilever shelving higher on the wall for SKUs that you don’t need regular access to or can move with a forklift.
• It keeps your inventory more organized. Cantilever shelving can be divided into customized spaces, giving you a more precise amount of storage for each SKU without sacrificing precious inventory space. Those customized shelves are ideal for keeping inventory separated, organized, and easy to access when it is needed.
• It’s easy to install. Most warehouses have the manpower and tools required to install cantilever shelving themselves. This makes it a practical warehouse storage solution in terms of labor; it’s unlikely you’ll need to pay to have an expert install it for you.
• It offers a lot of versatility. You can use cantilever racking systems to store a huge variety of items and it’s easy to move around to meet changing inventory needs.
• It’s easy to use with other systems. Cantilever systems can be easily integrated into a warehouse that also uses selective pallet racking or other warehouse storage solutions.

The Cons of Cantilever Racking

• Floor stacking is cheaper. Floor stacking doesn’t require you to make an investment in new warehouse equipment. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that it’s free, though; taking up valuable floor space could be taking it away from a better, more profitable use.
• It won’t work for your pallets. If you are storing pallets, this isn’t the warehouse storage solution you need. You’ll be better off using drive-in racking or selective pallet racking instead. You’ll want to use cantilever racking systems for long loads, such as lumber and pipes, as opposed to cartons and boxes.

Should You Install Cantilever Racking in Your Warehouse?

If you are currently floor stacking long, awkwardly-shaped inventory, then you should definitely consider installing a cantilever racking system in your warehouse. It can free up valuable floor space, keep your inventory more organized than floor stacking, and be relatively easy to install yourself. Still not sure that it’s the right solution for you? Talk to our team. We can help you determine if you should be using cantilever shelving based on your warehouse setup and inventory parameters. If it’s the right system for you, we’ll help you place an order for the cantilever system materials you need to get it set up in your warehouse. We can even have an installation team get it set up for you with minimal disturbance to your warehouse. If it’s not the right system, we’ll find one that is. Give us a call or contact us through our website to speak with one of our project managers. They’ll find a warehouse storage solution that you’ll love and works with your warehouse and your budget. Contact us today!