Q: What is Selective Pallet Rack?
A: The most common style of pallet rack, selective pallet rack, is designed for high-density warehouses that store a large variety of products. Selective rack provides 100% access to all pallet positions at all times without having to move other pallets. Based on cost per position, selective rack is the least expensive type of pallet rack. Selective rack is easy to install and easy to reconfigure should storage dimensions change. While not as durable as structural steel pallet racking, selective pallet rack can do the job in most cases.

Q: What is Drive-In Rack?
A: Drive-in rack is a narrow storage system best for applications that utilize the "Last In, First Out" (or LIFO) method of inventory control. Pallets are stored on rails and access to the pallets is from the front. Pallets are stored back to back which creates a dense storage area. Drive-in rack is ideal for products that ship in and out of the warehouse quickly.

Q: What is Push-Back Rack?
A: Push-back rack, much like drive-in rack, utilizes the LIFO method of inventory control. Pallets are stored on carts which move along rails. Unlike selective rack, which stores in a single pallet deep system, push-back rack can store pallets 2-5 deep. When the first skid or pallet is picked, material behind gently rolls forward on rails. All levels are accessible individually.

Q: What is Pallet Flow Rack?
A: Pallet flow rack is a combination of elevated rails, wheels, and rollers. Pallet flow rack offers a high-density storage system which is ideal for operations using the "First In, First Out" (or FIFO) method of inventory control. Warehouses with minimal space are ideal for pallet flow rack, as aisle space can be reduced by as much as 75%

Q: What is the Difference Between Pallet Rack and Industrial Shelving?
A: Industrial Shelving is used for storing small parts and boxes that will be loaded by hand. These shelving units can be free-standing or bolted together. Pallet racks are heavy duty storage racks found in warehouses and big-box retailers such as Home Depot, Lowes, or Costco. Product is stored on pallets and loaded with a forklift or other powered industrial truck. Pallet rack is taller and wider than shelving.

Q: Is there a standard size for pallet rack?
A: The most common height for pallet rack frames is 16'. However, we have frames available from 8' all the way to 60' high. Depths range from 18"-72". Pallet rack beams range in length from 4' to 16', with the most common beams being between 8' and 12' long, depending on the application.

Q: What are Pallet Supports?
A: Pallet supports are used to reinforce a pallet rack system. Supports are installed onto the step of the beam allowing storage of heavy pallets without worry. It is our recommendation to use two pallet supports per pallet position; they are the best insurance you will ever purchase!

Q: What are the different types of Wire Decks?
A: Waterfall decking is the most common style of wire deck. This type of decking sits in the step of the pallet rack beam. The support channel rests on the step and the "waterfall" wraps around the top of the beam.
Flush waterfall decks fit similarly to standard waterfall decking, with the only difference being that they do not hang over the top of the beam, the sit on the step of the beam.
Inverted wire decks are another common type of wire decking. This deck has a flange at the end of the support channel, making it easy to fit on step or box beams.
Lastly, flush flat wire decking simply sits flush on top of the beam.

Q: Should I use particle board or plywood for the decking?
A: Particle board or plywood should only be used for light duty storage. Wire decking is the recommended material for decking, especially considering many municipalities have local fire codes requiring the use of wire decking.

Q: What are Row Spacers?
A: Row spacers provide a consistent amount of distance between two rows of pallet rack. Row spacers have a flange on each end to secure the spacer to the frame. Row spacers should be installed when there are multiple bays in a continuous row. The recommended number of row spacers per frame is as follows:

• Frames 4' to 14': 1 Row Spacer
• Frames 15' to 24': 2 Row Spacers
• Frames 25' to 34': 3 Row Spacers

Q: What are Wall Ties?
A: Wall ties secure an individual section of pallet rack to the wall. The wall tie acts as a stabilizer for the unit. Two wall ties per upright are recommended.

Q: What is Pallet Rack Netting?
A: Pallet rack netting is hung underneath a pallet rack system, preventing product that has fallen off the racks from making it all the way to the ground. This protects your employees from injury as well as potentially reducing damage to fallen product.

Q: Do I have to anchor my pallet rack system to the floor?
A: You should always anchor your pallet rack to the floor. The footplates on your uprights offer specific locations to place your anchors, which are essential to prevent the entire rack system from falling over as well as for enforcing uniform aisle spacing.

Q: How do I determine what size racks I will need?
A. It is easy to figure out what size rack you will need! First, determine the load depth, width, and height of your pallets. Then, call an ASI pallet rack specialist at (800) 876-3736 who can assist you in getting the right pallet rack system for your application.

Q: Can I order pallet racking in non-standard sizes?
A: Yes, our racking department and fabrication shop can customize racking to meet your needs. We suggest discussing this with one of our pallet rack technicians who will determine your best options.