As someone in need of metal shelving, you may currently be under the impression that all of the shelving systems we offer are the same, or you may be confused by some of the components that make up the units. Fortunately, we want you to have as much knowledge as possible about the products you purchase to help you find something that perfectly fits your storage needs.

The specifications and components that make up metal racks and shelving units include the dimensions, weight capacity, number of shelves, decking, vertical post construction, horizontal beam construction, etc., and this guide will helpfully and simply break down each category for you. At the end, please find a glossary of key terms used in the guide.

Dimensions

This category is dependent on the space limitations of where you will be placing the shelving units, as well as the specific dimensions of what it is you need to store. For a room/warehouse with limited floor space, a taller and more narrow unit is suitable. However, the shelving system will offer more support and convenience for the storage of heavier and more bulky items if they are wider and shorter. A shorter unit is also ideal for locations that do not have access to a ladder or forklift, but need to maintain the storage of large items.

Open vs. Closed

An open shelving unit is more economical, and your stored items can be easily viewed and accessed from more angles. However, a closed unit offers more privacy, protection, and stability.

Starter vs. Add-On

A starter is a single section unit that can stand alone. An add-on (or adder) only contains two vertical posts, as its purpose is to connect to a starter, sharing two of its vertical posts. You can use a starter by itself, but do not purchase an add-on unless you already own a starter of the same exact model.

Decking

Shelving units are available with different types of shelves, or decking. Most commonly used is solid decking, which offers the most support. However, there are some alternatives. Wire decking, for example, eliminates dust and dirt build up while enhancing fire safety with better sprinkler access. It also offers better ventilation and visibility (especially when looking up at a higher shelf). Choosing ribbed decking allows for space to grab packages easily and prevent pinched fingers. Lastly, decking made of particle board is very similar to solid decking, only it replaces metal with sturdy wooden boards. (Please note: If you are interested in a shelving system with particle board, is it much more economical for you to order a unit with no decking, and then have the wood cut at your local hardware store. This saves you money while also allowing for a much faster production time.)

Vertical Post Construction

The post construction of shelving units may be the category that causes the most confusion, but after seeing all of the available options broken down, you will have no trouble at all choosing the perfect shelves. Angled vertical posts are normally in the back of a shelving unit (but can be in the front as well), and provide optimum stability. This is generally what is used on a unit that will serve as a single section. Beaded vertical posts are usually in the front of a shelving unit, and are extremely useful; they provide more usable shelf width and facilitate movement of stored items such as cartons, in and out of storage. (Please keep in mind that due to loading limitations, beaded post shelving is designed for single-tier (non-mezzanine) use only.) Finally, T-post vertical posts are most commonly used as an upright shared by two shelving sections.

Horizontal Beam Construction

We offer three styles of horizontal beams for you to choose from. The standard type of horizontal beam is called angled (or flanged). This is the most common option, and can be used for the majority of shelving applications. If you require more weight capacity, than choose a unit with channel horizontal beams. Z-shaped horizontal beams are your third available option, and are used to reduce the profile of your shelving system. This results in increased vertical clearance. But while type of beam also adds protection to your decking’s edges, it is only ideal for light to medium weight storage needs.

Specialized Features

Many of the shelves we carry are made for specific uses. Some units are made to hold record boxes; these shelves offer box supports, as opposed to flat shelves, which allow more air to circulate around your files (increasing ventilation and reducing the chance of mold and mildew). We also offer bin units, which are shelves that have smaller compartments that are ideal for the storage of smaller items that are not boxed. Finally, we offer shelving systems that are ideal for food services and healthcare. These categories includes shelves that are rust-proof, some offer slanted shelves for display, and still others have casters for convenient portability.

Glossary of Key Terms

• Add-On: This is also referred to as an “adder”, and is a shelving unit made specifically to attach to a starter unit. It only has two vertical posts, as it shares the other two posts with the starter.
• Angle Post: This type of post is also referred to as an “offset angle post”. These are commonly used in the back of a shelving unit with another type of posts in the front, but they can be in the front as well. These posts provide optimum stability, and are generally what is used when the unit will serve as a single section.
• Beaded Post: Using this configuration provides more usable shelf width, as the posts are less intrusive. If used, these are generally the front posts of a unit.
• Channel Beam: This is the type of horizontal beam that is used when a large weight capacity is needed. It is more sturdy (and costly) than a standard beam.
• Closed Shelves: This type of shelving unit has a completely closed back, which offers privacy and more stability.
• Decking: This is another term for the actual shelves of a unit.
• Flanged Beam: Also referred to as an “angled” beam, this is the most common type of horizontal beam and is used for most shelving applications.
• Open Shelves: As opposed to closed shelves, these units have no backs and are more economic. They also offer more accessibility to the stored products.
• Starter: This is a unit that can be used either as a stand-alone unit, or as unit that an add-on (or adder) is connected to. A starter has four posts, and would share two of them with the add-on.
• T-Post: This is the type of vertical post most commonly used when connecting two shelving units side-by-side.
• Z-Shaped Beam: This type of beam can reduce your shelving unit’s profile, increasing the vertical clearance. It also protects the decking’s edges.