Do I Need a Pallet Rack Recertification After System Modifications?

Load Plaques & More – What You Need to Consider for Warehouse Safety

Pallet rack systems are built to last: however, they are built for a unique inventory mix and purpose. Therefore, when inventory and/or processing needs change, you may need to modify your existing storage racking to accommodate your new operational challenges. Note that with each change you must complete a pallet rack recertification to assure safe use and overall warehouse safety.

The Times They are a-Changin’

Many reasons would justify a pallet rack system modification, including: 

•  Repair Issues and Upgrades – Over time, factors like corrosion, wear and tear and impact from lift vehicles put a strain on your pallet racking system. Repairs or upgrades can affect the load-bearing capacity of the unit.
• Inventory Mix Changes – Inventory that is heavier, larger, or even smaller and lighter will change the way you store palletized loads and may require rack system changes to optimize the available space. For example, heavier loads may need rack system reinforcements, whereas smaller loads may change the beam levels to minimize wasted space. 
• Processing Changes – E-commerce has nearly every warehouse and distribution center changing its approach to order fulfillment. Lower level pallet racking can be adjusted to create a condensed pick area for cartons, cases, and each item picking. Upper levels will often store reserve pallets for the lower pick area. Be aware that shifting beams and load weight positioning within the racking system will likely change the previous load capacity.
•  New Forklifts – Sometimes, new lift vehicles warrant racking system modifications. For example, narrow-aisle vehicles (VNAs) may require shifting whole pallet racking systems and/or tieing rack systems together in back-to-back formation. This type of system reconfiguring will likely affect load-bearing capacity. 

Taking a birdseye approach to your inventory and operational needs may help you see that you may very well have most or all of what you need to ensure highly productive operations with a modicum of adjustments and reconfiguring. However, safety first means rack system recertification.  

Why Pallet Rack Recertification is Important

Whenever you modify storage racking, no matter to what extent or for what purpose, it must be recertified by a professional engineer, and the load capacity plaques must be updated and reposted. The rack system owner is responsible for the load plaques being prominently and for each storage rack system. 

Recertification of your pallet racks system provides clear information regarding the load capacity of your system in its current state. In addition, it is a required safety measure that benefits you by protecting all your valuable assets from workers and vehicles to inventory and equipment. 

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) offers clear and defined guidelines for rack design specifications to guide you in your rack modification decision-making. Additionally, the Rack Manufacturers Institute (RMI) provides system-specific specs and guidelines for each type of rack certification. 

Let WOI Help with Your Pallet Rack Recertification 

Storage Solutions Inc.(WOI) offers you a single source for all your system evaluation, repairs, installation, and recertification needs. Our experienced team will work with you to ensure your storage racking meets your operational conditions in both function and safety. We guarantee your satisfaction.

WOI 5-Step Total Satisfaction Experience™,- We guarantee that we will 1. Listen to your needs, 2. Execute your project with particular attention to your unique application, 3. Stick to project timelines, 4. Ensure a safe environment, and 5. Pay close attention to the appearance of the finished product. The WOI team will walk you through each stage of the process and provide expert customer service to deliver outstanding results and peace of mind. 

Contact a member of our team today, and let’s chat or Zoom. Call (865) 540-4004 for a prompt response. We proudly serve customers throughout the Southeast, including KENTUCKY, TENNESSEE, NORTH CAROLINA, ALABAMA, AND FLORIDA.