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Welcome To Shelving & Racking Limited

Shelving & Racking Limited are the UK's largest buyer, stockists and trade suppliers of new pallet racking, used pallet racking, warehouse racking, storage racking systems, industrial shelving, longspan shelving, steel shelving and warehouse storage equipment such as industrial cupboards, specialist cabinets and lockers.

Shelving & Racking Limited specialise in:

If you want to get in touch to discuss your shelving and racking requirements, you can call us on 0800 612 3210 or use our enquiry form.

Reduce Carbon Footprint

Go Green This New Year with Used Pallet Racking


Embrace sustainability in the new year with used pallet racking for a greener warehouse. Opting for used pallet racking is a practical and eco-friendly decision to lower your carbon footprint. This new year, why not go green with our excellent quality used pallet racking, all checked to SEMA specifications. It is not only a responsible choice for the environment but can also save you a considerable amount of money. Let’s explore how opting for used pallet racking can benefit both your business and the environment.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

Used pallet racking embodies the essence of the three Rs: Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. By choosing used pallet racking systems, you reduce wasted materials and give them a second life. This reduces the demand for new resources and minimises the environmental impact that comes with manufacturing new products.

Budget-Friendly

Opting for used pallet racking is not only environmentally responsible but also cost-effective. Our used pallet racking systems are cheaper than new ones, they are also quicker and therefore less expensive to install as the frames are sent out to you pre-assembled.  This means you can embrace sustainability without breaking the bank, a win-win situation for your business and the environment. We can provide pallet racking solutions for all budgets.

Local Sourcing and Reduced Emissions

A lot of new pallet racking is imported into the UK and this long-distance transportation is a significant source of carbon emissions. All our used pallet racking is bought in the UK as locally as possible and reused in the UK. By using UK suppliers and reusing existing materials, you’re contributing to a smaller carbon footprint. 

Durability and Quality

Our used pallet racking systems are robust and reliable. These systems are built to last and all of our stock undergoes rigorous quality checks before resale. By choosing Shelving and Racking, you can ensure that the racking meets industry standards and provides long-lasting performance, reducing the need for frequent replacements and further contributing to sustainability.

Customisation and Efficiency

Pallet racking comes in standard sizes so used racking can be designed to optimise storage space just as well as new, leading to an efficient use of your warehouse, which further reduces the energy and resources used. The circular economy is all about creating a sustainable, closed-loop system. By choosing used pallet racking, you are actively participating, where materials and products are kept in circulation, preventing waste and the depletion of resources.

Choosing used pallet racking for your business needs is a pro-active way to reduce your carbon footprint, promote sustainability, and enhance your environmental responsibility. It is the smart choice for both your business and the planet.  Our about us page gives further details of our commitment to sustainability.

We can supply used pallet racking for all project sizes and we are just a call or email away. Contact us on 0800 612 3210 or by email at sales@racking.ltd.

Used Pallet Racking

Causes of Unsafe Pallet Racking


As we start a new year, is maintaining your pallet racking on your to-do list? It is essential to understand the factors that can lead to unsafe conditions and take preventative measures. This blog examines reasons for pallet racking issues and provides strategies for maintaining a safe warehouse environment. Let’s explore some of the leading causes of unsafe pallet racking and see if we can help you to prevent any of this happening in your warehouse.

Why Pallet Racking Become Unsafe?

Efficient warehouse management relies on secure pallet racking systems for storing substantial quantities of goods. However, without proper maintenance, these systems can pose common hazards. Here are some of the leading causes of unsafe pallet racking:

Insufficient training:

Inadequately trained employees are more prone to causing accidents when working with or around pallet racking. Ensure your staff receives thorough training before engaging with these systems. 

Lack of maintenance:

Regular inspection and maintenance are vital for preventing damage to warehouse racking solutions. Consistently check for signs of wear and tear, creating a repair list to address any issues promptly.

Overloading:

Exceeding the loading capacities of pallet racking beams is dangerous and can cause damage to your racking and your stock and cause injury or death in the event of a collapse.  Implement load notices to guide staff in distributing loads across beams within the specified capacity.

Damaged or missing locking pins:

Locking pins (beam locks) play a crucial role in keeping pallet racking safe by preventing beams being accidentally dislodged . Damaged or missing locking pins can compromise the safety of the racking. Make sure that all locking pins are present and correctly fitted. contact us if you need to buy replacements.

Worn out parts:

Continuous use can lead to wear and tear in moving parts of some mobile racking systems, increasing the risk of collapse or failure. Regular safety inspections are essential to identify and address potential issues, including rust and corrosion.

Incorrect Use:

Using pallet racking for purposes other than supporting evenly distributed loads can lead to hazardous situations. Ensure proper weight distribution and adherence to load capacities to prevent accidents and always refer back to your supplier if you are changing the layout of your racking including adding, removing or altering beam levels. 

Improper installation:

Inadequately installed pallet racking poses a significant danger. Hiring a professional for proper installation is vital for ensuring the stability and safety of your racks, especially when fully loaded.

Understanding these potential risks and taking proactive measures is crucial for maintaining a secure warehouse environment. Prioritise the safety of your employees by addressing these common leading causes of unsafe pallet racking.

Prevention:

Book annual rack inspections using a qualified SARI inspector get in touch here 

Ensure you have installed column guards and barriers to prevent damage from fork trucks and other handling equipment

Ensure you have the correct signage in your warehouse.

SEMA provide a Rack Safety Awareness Course for the routine, regular inspection of your own company’s racking.

If any of the above are on your list and you require any pallet racking components please contact us on 0800 612 3210 to discuss your requirements. Alternatively, or you can contact us by email sales@racking.ltd.

How to Measure & Identify Your Pallet Racking


If you are adding to an existing pallet racking system, it is essential that you know exactly what you have so we can match it correctly and ensure that the racking you order matches your existing system. There are a huge number of different pallet racking manufacturers on the market and the separate components come in a wide range of weight capacities and sizes.   Call us on 0800 6123210 and speak to one of our sales team or send us an email with details of what you need.

So what is the best way to identify and measure your pallet racking?

Understanding the Basics

Before diving into measurements, it’s crucial to identify the pallet racking system that you have. There are many manufacturers and we stock a wide range from Dexion, Apex, Link 51, Redirack, Hilo and Stow to name a few. None of these systems are compatible with each other so it is important to make sure that you correctly identify your racking. On our website we have a useful Identify My Racking page to help you if you are unsure of the system you have. If you cannot identify your racking you can send us an email to sales@racking.ltd with an image and we will be happy to assist you further.

Measuring 

Beam Width (Bay Width):

    • Measure from the inside of one upright to the inside of the opposite pallet racking upright. This measurement is often called the ‘clear entry’ or ‘bay width’ – Measurement A on the diagram below.
    • The choice of bay width often depends on the size of your pallets. Typical sizes are 2700mm and 3300mm, but can be customised to your businesses needs.
    • Understanding the total load per pair of beams, known as the Safe Working Load (SWL) or Uniformly Distributed Load (UDL). For instance, if two pallets on a single beam level weigh up to 1000kgs each, your SWL/UDL will need to be 2000kgs.

Frame Height and Depth:

    • Measure the full frame height from the top of the frame to the bottom.
    • Measure the full frame depth from the outside of the front upright post to the outside of the rear upright post.
    • We will determine the correct frame duty based on factors such as the load on the beams, the number of beam levels, and the height of the first beam level.

Contact us on 0800 612 3210 to discuss your storage needs or to get advice on measuring and identifying racking components. Alternatively, or you can contact us by email sales@racking.ltd.

A Guide To Pallet Rack Decking


Pallet racking systems keep warehouses organised, and they become even better with pallet racking decking. Pallet rack decking boosts storage capacity and ensures stability and safety for different items. In this guide, we’ll cover various decking types, their benefits, and how to choose the right one for your needs.

Understanding Pallet Racking Decking

Pallet racking decking serves as an added platform or shelf that slots into your pallet racking system’s beams. This additional level expands your storage options, enabling the safe storage of items that aren’t suitable for directly placing on pallets. This increases the versatility of your racking system, making it capable of accommodating a wider range of goods. There are various types of decking, each designed to accommodate different types of goods and provide specific advantages.

Types of Pallet Racking Decking

Chipboard Decking: chipboard decking provides a solid and even surface for storing goods. This decking type is well-suited for storing non-palletised items, cartons, and individual products. It’s cost-effective and easy to install but may not be suitable for very heavy loads or very deep bays as it can tend to sag over time if not supported properly.

Timber Decking: our timber decking is available in open or closed boarded designs, and is made from wooden boards. It fits neatly onto the horizontal beams of a pallet racking system, providing a strong, level surface for storing goods. Timber decking is a versatile and cost-effective option, and is available in various thicknesses.  It is a great option for storing heavy items.

Wire Mesh Decking: wire mesh decking is a popular choice for pallet racking systems. It consists of a grid of wire panels that provide excellent support and visibility. This type of decking is ideal for fire safety compliance, as it allows water to pass through in the event of a fire. It’s also suitable for storing pallets, cartons, and various other items. Extremely suitable if your warehouse deals with food or pharmaceutical products because of its hygiene benefits.

Solid Steel Decking: is commonly used for long span shelving but we can have manufactured panels for pallet racking too.  It is hard-wearing and easy to clean down making it suitable for storing medical and food grade items.

Benefits of Pallet Racking Decking

  • Enhanced Storage: decking provides additional storage space for non-palletised items, maximising your racking system’s capacity.
  • Improved Safety: decking creates a stable and even surface for storing items, reducing the risk of products falling or becoming damaged.
  • Versatility: different types of decking cater to various storage needs, allowing you to store a wide range of items.
  • Fire Compliance: wire mesh decking allows water to pass through in case of a fire, meeting fire safety regulations.

Choosing the Right Decking

To select the right pallet racking decking for your needs, consider the types of items you’ll be storing, your storage environment, and any safety and compliance requirements. If you’re unsure, contact our Sales Team today and we can help you choose the most suitable decking for your warehouse needs.

Used Pallet Racking Offer- 5 bays of Link 51

Available Now Used Link 51 Pallet Racking


We currently have huge amounts of top-quality used Link 51 pallet racking, a  popular British made system. We have large quantities of all common sizes, ready for quick dispatch.

Our upright frames are up to 10,000mm and can be braced to meet your specific requirements, whether 900mm or 1100mm deep, or custom sizes if required. All our used frames come pre-assembled and include footplates.

Our selection of beams includes standard sizes of 2700mm x 2t and 2250mm x 2t. Should you require different dimensions, we’re here to accommodate your needs. We supply all our used beams with standard beam locks.

In addition to racking components, we offer a comprehensive range of accessories to complement your industrial racking system. We have wire mesh decking suitable for various racking setups, as well as column guards, pallet support bars, and rack end barriers.

If you need racking other than Link 51, we also have in stock  Dexion, Hilo, Apex, and PSS, and many others. If you’re unsure about the specifics of your current storage system, our knowledgeable team can help you identify it, ensuring that we provide fully compatible components.

For enquiries, quotes, or to explore your options, reach out to us now at 0800 612 3210 or send us an enquiry. We’re here to provide you with competitive pricing for used pallet racking and to discuss how we can optimise your storage needs.

What is pallet racking?


What is pallet racking?

Warehouses worldwide use adjustable pallet racking (APR) as the standard for storing palletised goods. It is a modular structure assembled using upright frames and horizontal beams. Buy here.

A forklift truck places pallets onto the beams in such a way that they overhang 50mm to the front of the racking and 50mm to the back. This allows a little leeway for placement. If your pallets are 1000mm deep you need 900mm deep frames. If your pallets are 1200mm deep you need 1100mm deep frames.

Call us on 0800 612 3210 for quotes or send us a message on our enquiry form.

 

Pallet Racking Dimensions

There are several standard sizes for pallet racking frames and beams and bespoke options available for unique and unusual loads.

 

Storing UK pallets

Standard UK pallets are 1200mm x 1000mm and a forklift picks them up on the 1200mm side and places them 1000mm deep onto 900mm deep pallet racking, allowing for a 50mm overhang to the front and back

 

Storing Euro Pallets

Standard euro pallets are 800mm x 1200mm and a forklift picks them up on the 800mm side and places them 1200mm deep onto 1100mm deep pallet racking, allowing for a 50mm overhang to the front and back.

 

How to store UK and Euro Pallets

Storing non standard pallets or loose items

If you use unusual pallet sizes, or a mixture of different pallet sizes or if you are storing non palletised goods. Timber decking or wire mesh decks create a shelf level between the beams.  Your pallets do not need to over hang the beams if you have decking but it is important that the decks are strong enough to take the load.

 

What beam length should I choose?

This depends on the size and weight of your pallets. A standard beam length is 2700mm clear entry (between the upright frames) and will accommodate 2 UK pallets or 3 Euro pallets and these beams would typically take 2000kg – 3000kg per level.  Longer beams are available as are smaller single pallet beams.

 

Pallet racking configurations

There are several different ways to configure pallet racking depending on the density of storage required and the fork truck you use.  All the below options use the same racking components but different configurations. Always refer to the technical specifications provided by the forklift manufacturer.

 

Wide aisle

Aisles of between 2.5m and 4m depending on the style of truck used. A counterbalance truck will need more clearance than a reach truck.

 

Narrow aisle

Narrow aisles are between 1.8m and 2.3m and can considerably increase available storage area. This configuration requires narrow aisle forklift trucks which also have the advantage of being able to lift pallets higher than counter balance trucks increasing vertical storage.

 

Very narrow aisle (VNA)

With aisles as small as 1.6m VNA systems are the answer for warehouses where space is at a premium. It is necessary to use very narrow aisle trucks and to fit guide rail or a wire guidance system.

 

Narrow Aisle Pallet Racking

Back to back

When 2 runs are placed side by side so each run is accessed from a different aisle.  Frame spacers of 200mm or 300mm are used to separate the frames. This allows the required clearance between pallets when the racks are loaded. This is a common layout for wide aisle, narrow aisle and VNA systems.

 

Double deep

Double deep racking is higher density option where a specialised truck with hydraulic or telescopic forks can reach over the 1st run of racking to place a pallet on the one behind. This option further reduces the number of aisles required.

 

 

Double Deep Pallet Racking

Alternative racking systems

Cantilever Racking

Used for storing long items like tubes, pipes and profiles or large sheet materials. Cantilever racking is a modular system with arms that clip or bolt in to upright legs to provide uninterupted horizontal storage.

 

Drive in Racking

 

A modular structure creating a high density ‘block’ of racking.  No aisles are required as the truck drives through the lane to place pallets on the rails.  Drive in racking is often placed against a wall and accessed from just one side meaning pallets are stored  ‘Last in first out’ (LIFO)

 

Drive In Pallet Racking

Drive though Racking

The same as drive in racking but accessible from both sides so pallets can be stored ‘First in First out’ (FIFO) as a result you achieve improved stock rotation and eliminate difficult to access pallets.

 

Push back racking

A dynamic system where the forklift places pallets onto the top of several nested carts. The cart holds the pallet and is pushed back when the next pallet is loaded into the same lane. Multiple pallets can be stored on each lane and due to the incline of the rails pallets are automatically presented to the front of the aisle for easy collection.

 

Push Back Pallet Racking

Pallet Live

‘Pallet live’ or Gravity Flow racking’ uses inclined lanes and rollers so loaded pallets travel down the lanes to the picking location. It is a FIFO process (first in first out) and ideal for high volumes of time sensitive or perishable goods.

Pallet Live

Mobile Pallet Racking

An extremely high density option where the warehouse operative controls movable beds with runs of pallet racking mounted on them.  The closely packed racking moves to create aisles where required, maximising floorspace. 

 

 

Mobile Pallet Racking
Used Dexion Racking available now

Used Dexion racking available now


We always have quality used Dexion racking for sale at the very best prices. Whether you need a few beam locks, a replacement upright, a couple of bays of used pallet racking to fill a gap in your storeroom or a full warehouse of pallet storage, we can find the right product for you.

Dexion pallet racking comes in a wide variety of sizes, so if you are adding to your existing warehouse racking, it is important to make sure that you get compatible materials. Unlike many other racking systems, you will still find a lot of Dexion in imperial sizes, so beams at 1372mm (4ft 6in), 2667mm (8ft 9in) and 3048mm (10ft), as well as standard metric sizes, are often found on the used market. The measurement used to describe a beam’s size is the clear entry- the space between the upright frames when beams are in place, so please check carefully before placing an order.

Upright frames may also differ from standard 900mm and 1100mm depths, with 914mm (3ft) and 1067mm (3ft 6in) often used for Dexion frames, so again please confirm the required size. We can cut or splice frames to almost any size, so please let us know the exact height you need and we will quote accordingly.

Dexion of often used as a generic term for pallet racking, when in fact there are many different manufacturers available and almost none of them are compatible with each other. Therefore it is important that we know what racking system you have if you are looking to add to it. You can see many of the leading industrial racking makes on our identify my racking page, or send us photos of what you have and we will be able to let you know the manufacturer. Link 51, Apex, Stow and PSS are all very common makes, but we can usually find whatever type of warehouse racking you need.

Call us now on 0800 612 3210 and we will be happy to help you find the pallet racking you need. Alternatively, you can send us an enquiry form, which we will reply to quickly, or use the Live Chat option during office hours.

We have deliveries going to all parts of the UK mainland every week, with space still available on wagons going to Huddersfield, Norwich, Scarborough and Redditch. 

Cantilever racking system

Cantilever racking system


A cantilever racking system is a versatile, robust and cost effective way to store long products or non-standard pallet sizes. It is a great way to maximise your warehouse storage capacity, making use of the available height and allowing you to store items of varying sizes in the same area.

We can supply you with a bespoke cantilever racking system that will suit your individual requirements. The uprights can be single or double sided and up to 10 metres high. The bracing which joins the uprights together can be tailored to the exact distance required for the length of the items that you will be storing. Horizontal load supporting arms are then added to the uprights, on which you will place your products. These can be up to 2500mm in length and will be designed to take the required load capacity. The height of the arms can be adjusted according to the height required for each storage level.

This type of warehouse storage equipment is particularly useful for the following products:

  • Pipes, tubes and bars
  • Timber
  • Sheet materials
  • Laminates and worktops
  • Extrusions
  • Lintels
  • Goods stored on non-standard pallets

Our cantilever racking can be galvanised for outdoor use and canopies or cladding can be added to help protect your stock from the weather. 

If you have large products to store and pallet racking doesn’t suit the dimensions, we can help you to create a warehouse racking system which will enable you to make the most of the space you have available. We have recently supplied cantilever racking to customers in Hull, Basingstoke, Coventry and Bradford, so wherever you are in the UK we can find the right industrial racking solution for your business.

Call us now on 0800 612 3210 if you are looking for a cantilever racking system or you think it might help with your warehouse storage and you need some guidance on the options available. Alternatively you can send us a message on the enquiry form and we will reply to you quickly.

warehouse storage system

Warehouse storage system- can I add to what I have?


Adding to your warehouse storage system can appear to be a complicated task if it’s something you haven’t looked into before, but we have years of experience and are always happy to help you to find the right pallet racking components for your needs. There are many different manufacturers of industrial racking and none of them are compatible with each other, so it important that you know what you have before you can think about adding to it.

You can see images of the most popular warehouse racking systems on our Identify My Racking page, or you can send us a photo of your racking and we will let you know what you have. Dexion, Link 51, PSS and Apex are some of the leading industrial racking manufacturers but there are many others that we have in stock.

We can also help you with the layout, dimensions and load capacities of your racking, our friendly and helpful team can work from your plans or arrange a site visit if required. Accessories such as column guards, rack end barriers, pallet support bars and load notices are all important components of your warehouse storage system and we can advise you on what you might need to complete you installation.

If you are looking for hand loaded storage, we have huge stocks of longspan shelving in a wide variety of sizes, so we can also help you to plan a layout that best suits your specific requirements.

We have deliveries leaving our warehouse every day, so whether you are in Rotherham, Blackburn, Norwich or Southampton we will get your used warehouse racking order to you quickly and in great condition.

Call us now on 0800 612 3210 to discuss your racking needs, or send us an enquiry form and we will reply to you quickly.

warehouse racking system

Warehouse racking system – what else do I need?


If you are looking to buy a warehouse racking system, you would start by working out how many upright frames and horizontal beams you need, and what size they need to be. But once you have a layout planned, you can broaden your search to other components that will ensure that your industrial racking is safe, secure and fit for purpose.

All of our pallet racking beams are supplied with 2 beam locks as standard, because they are important in helping to prevent the beams from being accidentally dislodged by your forklift. If you have beams without locking pins, we can supply as many as you need for all leading manufacturers.

Forklift trucks can also cause expensive and potentially dangerous damage to your racking uprights, so it is important to protect them. Column guards and rack end barriers are a relatively inexpensive way to avoid damage and are easy to install. All of our barriers and guards are supplied with fixing bolts.

If your pallets need extra support, or you want to use your warehouse racking system for hand loaded storage, we have large stocks of timber and wire mesh decking in stock to suit standard pallet racking sizes. Pallet support bars can also be used to help prevent your pallets from sagging.

All of our pallet racking accessories are compatible with leading manufacturers such as Dexion, Apex, PSS, Link 51 etc. If you aren’t sure what you need, or would like to discuss your options, our friendly and experienced team are here to help you. Click on the live chat option during office hours for instant answers, or give us a call on 0800 612 3210. Alternatively, you can send us an enquiry form and we will respond to you quickly.

Our deliveries cover the whole of the UK mainland, so whether you are in Blackpool, York, Bath or Maidstone, we can get you what you need, quickly and at a great price.