The challenge of storing long goods
Pipes, steel profiles, timber beams, plastic rods – long goods cannot be stored safely in standard racking. They protrude beyond the rack depth, tip over or block walkways. The solution: cantilever racking, designed specifically for overlong and bulky goods.
Structure of a cantilever rack
A cantilever rack consists of:
- Uprights (columns) – Carry the entire load, anchored to the floor
- Cantilever arms – Horizontal arms on which the stored goods rest
- Base plates – Distribute the load onto the warehouse floor
- Optional: roof – Weather protection for outdoor storage
Single-sided vs. double-sided
| Version | Application | Access |
|---|---|---|
| Single-sided | Against the wall, space-saving | From one side |
| Double-sided | Free-standing, maximum capacity | From both sides |
Design: how to dimension correctly
Arm length
The arm length determines the maximum storage depth. Rule of thumb: the stored goods should protrude no more than 1/3 of their length beyond the last cantilever arm. Typical arm lengths: 400–1,200 mm.
Load capacity per arm
Pay attention to the arm load capacity (individual load per cantilever arm) and the bay load (total load between two uprights). Steel pipes or profiles are extremely heavy – calculate generously.
Upright spacing
The spacing between the uprights depends on the length and flexural rigidity of the stored goods. Long, flexible materials such as plastic pipes require closer spacing (800–1,000 mm). Rigid steel profiles allow wider spacing (1,200–2,000 mm).
Practical application examples
Metal construction
Steel pipes, square profiles, flat steel – heavy and long. This is where heavy-duty cantilever racking with arm load capacities of up to 500 kg and heights of up to 6 m comes in. Loading and unloading by overhead crane or forklift truck with side shift.
Timber trade
Beams, battens, sawn timber and panel products. Important: ventilation between the levels so the timber does not go mouldy. Rubber-coated cantilever arm pads protect the timber surface from pressure marks.
Plastics processing
Plastic pipes and rods are light but long and flexible. Here, closer upright spacing is crucial to prevent sagging.
Outdoor vs. indoor storage
Cantilever racking is also suitable for outdoor storage. Requirements:
- Hot-dip galvanising – Protects against corrosion
- Roof system – Protects sensitive goods from rain and UV
- Foundation – Fixing in concrete rather than anchor bolts alone
- Wind load – Must be taken into account in the structural design
Conclusion
Cantilever racking is the only safe solution for storing long goods. Invest in the right dimensioning – arm length, load capacity and upright spacing must be matched to your stored goods. At Kreckler.Shop you will find cantilever racking in numerous configurations.