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Maximizing Warehouse Space with Cantilever Shelving:
The Ultimate Storage Solution

August 29, 2024
 
Structural cantilever racks p.1
In the fast-paced business world of today, efficient storage is crucial for warehouses, distribution centers, and manufacturing facilities. As your operations grow, so does your need for smart storage solutions. In previous blog posts, we've talked about trusty dusty pallet racking and boltless shelving.

Now we can get into the nitty gritty of another awesome type of rack: cantilever shelving. At JS Rack & Supply, we've seen firsthand how a cantilever racking system can transform spaces and improve function. Let's dive into the world of cantilever shelving and explore why it might be the perfect fit for your expanding storage needs.

What is Cantilever Shelving?

Cantilever shelving–which we refer to both as cantilever shelving and cantilever racks–is a unique storage system designed to handle long, bulky, or oddly shaped items that don't fit well on traditional pallet racks. The key feature of cantilever shelving is its open design: instead of front columns, it uses a series of arms extending from a central column or series of uprights. This creates unobstructed access to stored materials, making it easier to load and unload items of various sizes.

The basic components of a cantilever rack system include:

1.Base: The foundation that supports the entire structure

2. Columns: Vertical supports that hold the arms

3. Arms: Horizontal extensions that bear the weight of stored items

4. Bracing: Additional supports to ensure stability

Types of Cantilever Shelving

Cantilever shelving comes in various forms to suit different needs, including:
 
  • Single-sided: These racks are designed to be placed against a wall, with arms extending only on one side. Wall-mounted cantilever shelving in particular increases storage capacity in the same amount of space.
 
  • Double-sided: Freestanding units with arms on both sides, ideal for maximizing floor space in open areas.
 
  • Light-duty: Perfect for smaller warehouses or retail environments dealing with lighter materials.
 
  • Heavy-duty: These cantilever storage racks are engineered to support substantial weights, these are commonly used in industrial settings.
 
  • Adjustable: Systems with arms that can be easily repositioned to accommodate items of different heights and lengths.
 
  • Specialized: Custom-designed racks for specific industries or unique storage requirements.

Each type of cantilever storage rack system has its own advantages, and the best choice depends on your specific storage needs, available space, and the nature of your inventory.

Uses for Cantilever Shelving

The versatility of cantilever racks makes them suitable for a wide range of industries and applications.
 
  • Lumber Yards: Storing long boards, planks, and timber
 
  • Metal Fabrication: Organizing pipes, tubes, and steel bars
 
  • Automotive: Storing bumpers, exhaust systems, and other car parts
 
  • Furniture Warehouses: Storing large furniture pieces
 
  • Carpet and Flooring Suppliers: Rolling and storing carpets and other long flooring materials
 
  • Home Improvement Stores: Organizing doors, windows, moldings, and other products
 
  • Manufacturing Facilities: Storing raw materials as well as finished products
 
  • Electrical supply warehouses: Managing conduit, cable reels, and long electrical components

This list is just the tip of the iceberg. Cantilever shelving can be adapted to suit almost any industry that deals with long, bulky, and irregularly shaped items.

Benefits of Cantilever Shelving


Now that we've covered the basics, we can explore why cantilever shelving is a great help for businesses that want to expand their storage capacity.

Space Optimization: The open design of cantilever shelving allows for more efficient use of your vertical space. By eliminating front support columns, you can store those longer items without wasting valuable floor area.

Flexibility: Adjustable arms (if you have adjustable cantilever racks) mean that you can easily reconfigure your storage to accommodate any changing inventory needs. This adaptability is crucial for businesses with diverse product lines or seasonal variations.

Easy Access: The absence of front columns provides unobstructed access to stored items. This means faster loading and unloading times, which can significantly improve your warehouse efficiency.

Customization: Cantilever systems can be tailored to your specific needs. Whether you're storing lightweight materials for retail or heavy industrial equipment, there's a cantilever solution that fits.

Durability: High-quality cantilever shelving is built to last. With proper maintenance, these systems can serve your business for years, making them a smart long-term investment.

Safety: When properly installed and used, cantilever shelving can actually enhance warehouse safety by providing a stable, organized storage solution for potentially hazardous materials.

Cost-Effective: While the initial investment might be higher than some traditional shelving options, the long-term benefits in terms of space savings, efficiency, and durability often result in a strong return on investment.

Scalability: As your business grows, cantilever racking can grow with you. It's easy to add sections or expand existing units to accommodate increased storage needs.

Improved Inventory Management: The clear visibility and organization provided by cantilever shelving can lead to better inventory control and reduced product damage.

Things to Think About When Choosing New and Used Cantilever Racks

Before you make the investment in a cantilever rack system, there are things you should consider.

1.Weight Capacity: Ensure the system you choose can handle the weight of your heaviest items.

2. Available Space: Measure your area carefully, including ceiling height, to maximize your overall storage potential.

3. Types of Items Stored: Consider the dimensions and shapes of your inventory to determine the ideal arm spacing and depth.

4. Forklift Access: If you'll be using forklifts or other material handling equipment, factor in the necessary aisle width and height clearances.

5.Future Growth: Think about your projected storage needs and choose a system that can accommodate expansion.

6. Building Codes and Safety Regulations: Ensure your cantilever warehouse racking complies with local building codes and OSHA safety standards.

7. New vs. Used: Depending on your budget and needs, you might consider a mix of new and used components to create your ideal storage solution. (JS Rack & Supply sells both new and used cantilever racks.)

Making the Most of Your Warehouse Cantilever Racks near Boise, Idaho

Once you've installed your new (or used) cantilever shelving, here are some tips to maximize its effectiveness.

1. Implement a Logical Organization System: Group similar items together and use labels or color-coding for easy identification.

2. Train Your Staff: Ensure all employees understand how to safely load and unload items from the cantilever racks.

3. Conduct Inspections Routinely: Check for any signs of wear or damage and address issues promptly to maintain safety and efficiency. Use

4. Appropriate Accessories: Consider adding features like arm caps, backstops, or decking to enhance functionality and protect stored items.

5. Keep Aisles Clear: Maintain clear pathways between racks to ensure safe and efficient movement of people and equipment.

6.Review and Adjust: Periodically assess your storage needs and reconfigure your systems as necessary to make the most of your storage.

At JS Rack & Supply, we help businesses like yours find the perfect storage solutions. Whether you're looking for brand new, state-of-the-art industrial cantilever racks or quality used components, we've got you covered. Our Boise, Idaho area office with nationwide reach means we can supply businesses across the US with the storage materials they need to grow and thrive.

Cantilever shelving is more than just a storage solution–it's a tool for enhancing efficiency, safety, and productivity in your warehouse or facility. By understanding its benefits and applications, you can make an informed decision about whether it's the right choice for your storage needs. Remember, the key to successful implementation is careful planning and choosing a system that aligns with your specific requirements.

Ready to take your storage to the next level? Reach out to JS Rack & Supply today and call (503) 233-7791. Let's explore how cantilever shelving can transform your space and streamline your operations.
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