Racking Installation

Why Proper Racking Installation Matters

1. Safety First: Proper pallet racking installation protects workers by reducing the risk of collapses and accidents, creating a secure warehouse environment.

2. Structural Integrity: Well-installed racking ensures durability and stability, preventing costly damage to inventory and equipment.

3. Maximized Space Efficiency: Optimized racking layouts improve organization, increase storage capacity, and enhance workflow efficiency.

4. Regulatory Compliance: Meeting industry safety standards helps pass inspections, avoid fines, and maintain operational legality.

5. Long-Term Cost Savings: Investing in professional racking installation reduces maintenance costs, minimizes downtime, and enhances overall warehouse profitability.

Our Plan for Pallet Rack Installation

Space Assessment: Measure floor area, ceiling height, and identify obstacles like pillars or beams. Ensure the racking system fits your layout, meets seismic requirements, and can be securely anchored to a stable floor.

Storage Needs: Evaluate the type, size, and weight of items you’ll store. Choose a racking system that meets your capacity, accessibility, and inventory rotation needs (FIFO/LIFO).

Rack Selection: Based on space and storage needs, select racks that accommodate your operation’s requirements, including floor capacity, ceiling height, and forklift access. Consider future growth.

Safety Compliance: Adhere to OSHA and local safety regulations. Train personnel, use PPE, and secure necessary permits with engineer approval before installation.

Engineering Design Services

Tailor your warehouse storage and processing solutions to align with your specific operational requirements considering factors such as budget, labor availability, and equipment capabilities.

TW Engineering & Design Deliverables:

• Concept and Installation Drawings
• Building: Floor Plan, Warehouse Storage, Pallet Racking Elevations
• Detailed CAD Drawings & Site Plans
• Equipment Load Capacities
• Seismic Design
• Inventory Slotting Analysis
• High-Pile Analysis

With extensive industry experience spanning sectors like food & beverage, retail, manufacturing, automotive, 3PL, electronics, home & garden supply, and more, we’re equipped to meet your unique needs.

Seismic Engineering & Calculations

Seismic zones determine the earthquake resistance needed for safe, compliant warehouse racking. Proper design prevents collapses, protects inventory and staff, and minimizes downtime in high-risk areas. We handle structural and seismic calculations.

TW Engineering & Design Experts Provide:

• Seismic-compliant racking with detailed structural analysis.
• Safe, code-compliant solutions for seismic zones with structural integrity.
• Complete permit-ready calculations and documentation for easy approval process.
• Systems that withstand seismic forces, reduce risk, and protect your investment.

Trusted Manufacturer Partners:

Total Warehouse delivers high-quality racking solutions by partnering with the industry’s most trusted manufacturers. Our products are built for strength, durability, and long-term performance in demanding warehouse environments.

• ✅ Heartland – Precision-engineered racking for custom applications
• ✅ Nucor / Hannibal – American-made structural steel rack systems
• ✅ Interlake / Mecalux – Innovative, high-capacity racking solutions
• ✅ UMH – Flexible storage systems for evolving warehouse needs
• Maverick – Quality racking built for speed and scalability
• Steel King – Heavy-duty, impact-resistant racking for tough conditions

Built to High Standards With Industry Leaders.

Total Warehouse’s racking products align with industry standards and best practices set by organizations like MHI, RMI, NFPA, and MHEDA, ensuring safety, compliance, and performance. Our solutions are designed to reflect the guidelines and expectations these respected organizations promote.

Industry Associations:

• MHI (Material Handling Industry): Supports industry best practices and innovation
• RMI (Rack Manufacturers Institute): Sets engineering and safety standards for rack design
• NFPA (National Fire Protection Association): Guides fire safety and code compliance in high-pile storage
• MHEDA (Material Handling Equipment Distributors Association): Promotes education and ethical practices in material handling

OSHA Compliancy For Installs

OSHA requires that warehouse racking systems be properly installed and maintained to ensure worker safety, primarily focusing on load capacity, structural integrity, aisle clearance, and regular inspections.

📦 Pallet Rack Installation FAQ

1. Why is proper pallet rack installation so important?

Proper installation ensures the safety of your employees, prevents product damage, and maximizes the efficiency and lifespan of your racking system.

2. When should I start planning for pallet racking in a new warehouse?

As early as possible. Planning ahead helps avoid delays due to long lead times for permits, manufacturing, and installation scheduling.

3. Do I need permits for pallet racking?

Yes—racks over 5’9″ require permits. Depending on your location and product type, you may also fall under high-pile storage regulations.

4. How long does the permit process take?

The typical permit process takes 6–8 weeks, but can extend to 2–8 months if fire safety or sprinkler upgrades are required.

5. What are high-pile storage requirements?

If you’re storing product over 12 feet, your racking may need additional fire suppression measures and code compliance to pass inspection.

6. What is included in the pre-installation process?

We inspect materials, verify plans, flag obstructions, confirm floor conditions, and ensure the crew is trained on safety and procedures.

7. How thick should the warehouse floor slab be for pallet racks?

Typically, a 6-inch concrete slab is required to support standard pallet racking systems.

8. How long does it take to manufacture pallet racking?

Lead times range from 2 to 12 weeks depending on order size and whether standard or custom racking is needed.

9. Should I order racking before permits are approved?

Ideally, no. Ordering before permit approval carries risk—denial may require costly adjustments to racking or your building’s sprinkler system.

10. How long does installation take?

Most small-to-medium jobs take 2–4 weeks, though larger projects or limited installer availability can extend this timeline.

11. What is a special inspection?

A special inspection checks pallet rack anchors for compliance and safety. It usually takes place within 1–3 days of installation.

12. What happens during the final inspection?

After passing the special inspection, the city/county will conduct a final review to approve your permit and clear your racking for use.

13. What does a typical rack installation crew look like?

We use a trained team of 3–5 certified professionals who follow OSHA standards, manufacturer specs, and project-specific guidelines.

14. What can delay my racking project?

Common delays include permit denials, missing documentation, backordered materials, or uncovered building compliance issues.

15. Why choose Total Warehouse for rack installation?

We provide turnkey service with certified installers, OSHA-compliant practices, project management, equipment operation, and ongoing communication—all with safety, quality, and efficiency in mind.