Pallet Rack Specification & Configuration Guide

It's easy to configure selective racks to fit your load size, available space, load weights and operational needs with this guide from Cisco-Eagle. We are always available to help you with any rack project - call or email today for fast assistance.

To determine pallet rack configurations, follow these steps:

Determine Beam Factors

1. What size is the pallet? Determine the depth and width of your pallet. Most pallets used today are standard GMA pallets.
2. Determine the load depth, load width and load height of your largest load. For the height, add the height of the load and the height of the pallet together for the total.
3. To determine the front-to-back depth of your uprights, subtract 6" from your pallet depth. Example: Your pallet is 40"W x 48"L. Subtract 6" from 48". The result: 42" uprights. See the standard upright sizes. Note that many others are available.
4. To determine the beam width (assumes 2 pallets per beam): Multiply the load width x2 and add 12". Example: Load width is 42". 2 x 42" = 84"+12"=96" beam length. If required, round up to the next highest beam length. See the standard beam sizes for some of the available beam widths. We're not limited to those sizes, but they are a good starting point.
5. Determine load weight. Include the weight of your pallet in total weight.
6. Check the beam capacity to ensure the specified beams will carry the planned load. Do not exceed beam capacity. Beams capacities are calculated per pair, not per beam.

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Determine Upright Height

1. Multiply the number of pallets high stored minus one pallet x 10". Example: if you’re storing 4 pallets high, then use multiple 3 pallets x 10". 3 x 10" =30"
2. Multiply the number of pallets stored minus one pallet by the overall load height. Include the pallet height in the overall load height. Example: Overall load height of 50", 4 pallets high, minus one pallet. 3 x 50" =150".
3. If you are using a pallet for the ground level, your height may increase slightly.
4. Add the two numbers (30" + 150"=180" in this case). This number is your upright height. See standard upright sizes.

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Notes on Rack Upright Height

• The 10" between pallets allows for beam depth and space to lift and remove the pallet.
• Be certain there is adequate space left between load height of uppermost pallet and sprinkler heads, light fixtures, and other obstructions that may exist overhead.
• If you plan to store more than two pallets per beam, or more than four pallets high, or your overall pallet height is more than 60" or your pallet weight is more than 3,000 lbs., contact us for assistance.

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Need more help?

Let us configure your racks for you, or call toll free for immediate assistance on your racking application. Consider our Pallet Rack Estimator to run projections on selective rack projects. It can provide estimates, drawings, and bills of material.

If you need assistance you can always call us toll-free.