Cantilever racking: the perfect choice for long goods
Certain goods, especially longer ones such as wood (beams), pipes or similar, place special demands on their storage. As they differ both in length and weight, it is important to analyse how storage space can be optimally utilized. By definition, cantilever racking is a very flexible storage system that can be adapted in terms of size and load-bearing capacity - either on one or both sides.
The special feature of cantilever racking is that it can be used both in small warehouses and on a larger industrial scale. In some cases, even plug-on extensions are available for industrial parts. Cantilever racking is then part of an overall solution, specially designed for the respective application.
Cantilever racking: advantages
Due to their nature, the handling of long goods requires smart warehouse planning in order to make the best possible use of the available space. Starting with a basic design, they can be flexibly adapted to the needs of the storing company. This is achieved, for example, by detachable or extendable cantilevers that are then simply hooked in.
Further advantages of cantilever racking:
- Can be used indoors and outdoors
- Can be used on one or both sides
- Comparatively low installation costs (especially in small warehouses)
- Flexibly adaptable, for example to a shelving system
Cantilever racking: disadvantages
Even if cantilever racking is by definition particularly flexible and a prerequisite for the proper storage of long goods, there are still some disadvantages associated with its use. On the one hand, a lot of space is required in combination with a partially limited load capacity. On the other, this storage technology is also not suitable for pallets or small parts. As there are hardly any "gentle" elements, the stored goods are often dirty or have minor damage.
In addition, the use of cantilever racking is limited to the LiFo ("last in, first out") principle, which requires clear planning. This reduces the period during which inventory remains tied up in the company, at the same time ensuring the company's liquidity. This way, a high degree of digitalization leads to greater efficiency.
