What are the Different Types of Cantilever Racking

Time:9/15/2025

Warehouses often need to store long, bulky, or irregularly shaped items that cannot be placed on standard pallet racks. This is where cantilever racking becomes the ideal storage solution. Designed with open fronts and projecting arms, cantilever systems allow for easy access to items such as pipes, timber, metal beams, and furniture. But not all cantilever racks are the same—there are several types to choose from, each suited for different applications. In this article, we will explore the different types of cantilever racking and how to choose the right system for your needs.

Overview of Cantilever Racking Systems

A cantilever rack consists of four main components: the base, uprights, arms, and bracing. Unlike pallet racking, it does not use front columns, allowing unrestricted access to stored materials. This makes it especially efficient for items of varying lengths and shapes.

Main Types of Cantilever Racking

1. Single-Sided Cantilever Racking

Single-sided racks have arms extending only from one side of the upright.

Best for: Placement against walls or where floor space is limited.

Advantages: Simple design, saves space, and easy to install.

Limitations: Lower storage density compared to double-sided systems.

2. Double-Sided Cantilever Racking

In this design, arms extend from both sides of the upright, creating access on both sides of an aisle.

Best for: Central warehouse aisles with forklift access from both directions.

Advantages: Maximizes storage capacity, more efficient for large warehouses.

Considerations: Requires more floor space and proper aisle planning.

3. Light-Duty Cantilever Racking

Light-duty racks are built for smaller, lightweight products such as PVC pipes, plastic tubing, wooden boards, or aluminum profiles.

Applications: Small workshops, retail storage, and lighter manufacturing needs.

Advantages: Affordable, easy to install, and flexible for quick adjustments.

4. Medium-Duty Cantilever Racking

Medium-duty racks provide more strength, supporting heavier items like furniture, panel boards, and moderate-sized metal bars.

Applications: Manufacturing plants, distribution centers, and mid-size warehouses.

Advantages: Strong enough for industrial use while still cost-effective.

5. Heavy-Duty Cantilever Racking

Heavy-duty racks are engineered to support the heaviest loads such as structural steel, large timber beams, and heavy pipes.

Applications: Construction material yards, steel warehouses, and industrial storage.

Advantages: Extremely durable, reinforced design for maximum load capacity.

Specialized Variations of Cantilever Racking

Beyond the main categories, there are specialized variations designed for unique storage needs:

Mobile Cantilever Racking: Installed on movable bases to increase storage density by reducing aisle space.

Galvanized Cantilever Racking: Coated for corrosion resistance, ideal for outdoor storage.

Adjustable Arm Racking: Flexible arm positions to handle different product sizes with ease.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Cantilever Racking

When deciding which type of cantilever racking suits your facility, consider:

Weight & Size of Items: Heavier or bulkier items require medium- or heavy-duty systems.

Available Space: Single-sided racks fit against walls, while double-sided racks maximize aisle use.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Use: Choose galvanized racks for outdoor storage.

Budget & Long-Term Value: Investing in the right system reduces damage, improves safety, and enhances efficiency.

Conclusion

Cantilever racking comes in multiple types—single-sided, double-sided, light-duty, medium-duty, heavy-duty, and specialized variations. The right choice depends on your inventory, warehouse space, and storage environment. By selecting the right system, you can maximize efficiency, ensure safety, and extend the life of your storage infrastructure.

If you are considering upgrading your warehouse storage, consult a professional racking supplier to find the best cantilever solution for your business.

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