What type of shelving do you need?
It comes down to your load type, environment and application. A quick guide:
Rivet Shelving: This is the most economical type, but also comes in the most configurations. Rivet shelving can be very narrow, very deep and very tall as it uses a variety of standard components to build a structure. It's also the heaviest duty shelving, handling far more weight than any other type. It installs easily and without tools. It lacks the accessories and options available in steel or wire.
Steel shelving: the most versatile shelving, with the most potential accessories, add-ons, and ways to create exactly the kind of storage you want. Smooth shelves make it easier for bins to slide onto or off the shelves. Steel also may offer more adjustability spacing. It's more expensive than rivet type, but lets you add things like modular drawers, tilt shelving options, dividers and more. It can also be finished in a variety of colors to match your needs.
Wire shelving: is the most attractive shelf type. It's frequently used in commercial or "clean" applications. It's considered the easiest to install, and is ideal for mobile (you can mount casters to your posts easily). Open construction means it gathers less dust and can allow sprinkler systems to pass between wires.
See our extensive article on selecting a shelving type for more information.