A cantilever racking system is a type of storage solution specifically designed to hold long, bulky or irregularly shaped items. Think timber, steel bars, pipes, or furniture. Unlike traditional pallet racking, cantilever systems have no front column, giving operators unrestricted access to stored materials. This makes loading and unloading easier, faster and safer.
The structure typically includes vertical columns, base supports, and horizontal arms which extend outward like shelves. These arms can be adjusted depending on the size and weight of the materials, providing a customisable storage setup that maximises space usage.
Why Choose a Cantilever Racking System?
One of the standout benefits of a cantilever racking system is its versatility. It is ideal for warehouses or yards that handle non-palletised goods.
Traditional shelving just doesn’t cut it when you’re storing 6-metre steel pipes or large wooden boards. Cantilever racking offers a simple but highly effective way to keep these materials organised and accessible.
Another key advantage is the improved access it offers. Without front columns, forklifts and warehouse staff can retrieve items with minimal manoeuvring. This not only improves productivity but also reduces the risk of accidents in a busy warehouse setting.
Types of Cantilever Racking
There are two primary types of cantilever racking systems: single-sided and double-sided. Single-sided racks are placed against walls, while double-sided systems are accessible from both sides, making them ideal for central warehouse aisles.
You can also choose between light-duty, medium-duty and heavy-duty racking depending on your load requirements.
Some modern systems even include mobile cantilever racks or adjustable arm configurations, offering even more flexibility in warehouse design. Whether you’re storing raw materials in a manufacturing facility or finished products in a distribution centre, there’s a solution to fit.
Maximising Space and Safety
Cantilever systems are a great way to make use of vertical space. By stacking materials vertically, businesses can reduce floor clutter and create more efficient walkways and storage lanes. This can lead to better inventory management and faster picking times.
Safety is also a major consideration. With proper weight distribution and professional installation, cantilever racking can support substantial loads without compromising structural integrity. Many systems include locking pins and stabilising bracing to prevent arms from shifting or collapsing under pressure.
Is a Cantilever Racking System Right for You?
If your operations involve handling long, awkward or oversized items, investing in a cantilever racking system can transform your warehouse. Not only will it enhance organisation, but it can also reduce damage to goods and improve workflow efficiency.
Before purchasing, consider the types of items you store, your warehouse layout and how often materials are moved. Consulting with a storage design expert can help you choose the right configuration and weight rating to match your specific needs.
Key Considerations Before Installation
Before committing to a cantilever racking system, it’s worth thinking beyond just dimensions and load ratings. A successful installation depends on how well the system integrates with your warehouse workflow.
Start by evaluating your material handling equipment. For instance, if you’re using counterbalance forklifts or sideloaders, you’ll want to ensure the aisle widths align with turning radii and fork reach. A poorly planned aisle can slow down retrieval times or even create safety hazards.
Ceiling height is another factor. It might sound obvious, but vertical racking is only effective if your building can accommodate the height safely—especially with forklift clearances in mind. Also, check if your floor is strong enough to support a fully loaded system. Structural engineers can help assess load-bearing capacity if you’re unsure.
And don’t overlook future expansion. If your business is growing, think about modular systems that can be extended later without requiring a full redesign or costly downtime.
Customisation Options Worth Exploring
Cantilever systems are surprisingly customisable. Most suppliers offer add-ons that can adapt the structure to very specific use cases.
For example, some companies opt for inclined arms to prevent round items like pipes or logs from rolling off. Others install removable end stops or welded lips for added security during transport or seismic activity.
If you’re storing outdoor materials—like timber or piping exposed to the elements—galvanised or powder-coated finishes are a smart choice. These coatings protect the steel from corrosion, extending the life of your racking and preventing rust-related structural failures.
And for high-turnover operations, colour coding your racking arms or rows can speed up item retrieval. This visual organisation trick is especially useful in busy facilities with multiple product lines or departments sharing floor space.
Integrating Cantilever Racks with Inventory Systems
One of the big advantages of modern warehousing is how easily storage systems can be tied into digital inventory management. Cantilever racking doesn’t have to stand alone—it can work in sync with your warehouse management system (WMS).
By labelling each rack and shelf level with barcodes or RFID tags, you can track stock movements in real time. When items are scanned in or out, your WMS updates automatically, helping to prevent double-handling or stockouts.
Even better, some smart systems can help you optimise placement based on frequency of use. Frequently accessed items can be positioned at mid-level, while rarely moved stock can go higher. That way, you’re not wasting time lifting down heavy objects unnecessarily.
Maintenance Tips for Long-Term Reliability
A well-installed cantilever system should last for many years, but like any heavy-duty equipment, it requires regular maintenance.
Set up a routine inspection schedule. Check for common issues like:
- Bent or cracked arms
- Loose bolts or locking pins
- Signs of rust, especially around baseplates or weld points
- Floor anchoring movement or separation
Training your staff to report wear and tear early can prevent small issues from snowballing into costly failures. In high-volume facilities, it’s a good idea to get a professional inspection annually, especially before seasonal inventory surges.
And don’t forget housekeeping. Dust, debris or spilled liquids under your racking can create slip hazards or even interfere with forklifts. Keeping your aisles clean isn’t just good practice—it’s an essential part of system upkeep.
Final Thoughts
In today’s fast-paced industrial and logistics environments, having the right storage system is crucial. A cantilever racking system offers a practical, safe and scalable solution for businesses that need to store long or bulky goods.
With the right setup, your warehouse can become more efficient, safer, and better organised than ever.