Industrial warehouses always need efficient storage solutions for long and bulky materials. Whether it is timber, steel pipes, metal sheets, aluminium sections, or any other material – an industrial storage facility needs efficient and organised systems capable of maximising storage capacity and ensuring accessibility.
Among various solutions to warehouse storage problems, a cantilever racking system stands out as one of the most useful solutions. But when deciding whether to opt for single-sided vs double-sided cantilever racking, many business owners fail to understand the key differences between these solutions. Let us look into some aspects that might help to decide which system is better for your particular application.
By understanding the difference between single-sided vs double-sided cantilever racking, one will be able to find a suitable cantilever racking solution that will be productive and safe.
Understanding Cantilever Racking
To compare single-sided vs double-sided cantilever racking, first one should know about cantilever racking systems.
A cantilever racking system is made up of columns and arms that run outwards to store goods. In contrast to other racking systems such as pallet racks, there are no front columns in cantilever racking, making it easy to accommodate large products.
Heavy-duty cantilever racks are used in many industries due to their front-free accessibility and ability to make full use of the vertical space. A good quality cantilever rack helps in organising stocks efficiently.
What is Single Sided Cantilever Racking?
Single-sided cantilever racking means that a rack is made of only one set of arms connected to an upright column. This design allows a cantilever racking system to be installed near the walls of the warehouse and makes it great for perimeter storage purposes.
Narrow warehouses with limited floor space will find this type of cantilever racking particularly useful. It allows creating an aisle along the walls while keeping the central part of the facility accessible for other equipment.
Benefits of Single-Sided Cantilever Rack
- Maximizes wall space utilization
- Lower initial investment cost
- Ideal for smaller warehouses
- Provides organized storage for long materials
- Works efficiently as a perimeter cantilever storage rack
A single-sided cantilever rack is mostly used in timber, steel bar, pipe and other light industry facilities.
What is Double Sided Cantilever Racking?
A double-sided cantilever rack means that a cantilever racking system is equipped with arms located on both sides of the upright column, allowing it to store materials in front of and at the back of it.
This type of cantilever racking installation usually implies setting up racks in the middle of the warehouse for creating storage aisles. Such a cantilever racking system is preferred by large industrial facilities because of its increased storage capacity
One of the biggest advantages of choosing a cantilever rack double-sided system over its single-sided counterpart is increased storage efficiency.
Benefits of Cantilever Rack Double Sided
- Higher storage density
- Better accessibility from both sides
- Faster loading and unloading operations
- Ideal for large-scale industrial facilities
- Enhances warehouse efficiency
A double-sided cantilever racking system is particularly suitable for businesses working with large amounts of goods.
Single-Sided vs Double-Sided Cantilever Racking: Key Differences
There are a few different aspects that can be considered when deciding which cantilever racking system to choose for your business – a single-sided or a double-sided cantilever racking system.
1. Space Utilization
Space utilisation is one of the biggest differences between a cantilever rack double-sided configuration and a single-sided cantilever racking system.
A single-sided cantilever rack is supposed to be installed against walls to make full use of their space. In contrast, a double-sided cantilever racking system is used for maximising storage capacity. Thus, the first type will be preferable in small warehouses. Large facilities can benefit from using both types of cantilever racking solutions.
2. Storage Capacity
Another major difference between the two cantilever racking systems is the potential storage volume.
Since a double-sided cantilever racking system features arms on both sides, the storage capacity is almost doubled compared to a single-sided configuration. If storage volume is an important issue in your operations, then using a cantilever rack double-sided solution is highly recommendable.
3. Cost Considerations
In regard to initial investments in purchasing a new cantilever racking system, there are also notable differences between the two cantilever rack variants.
A single-sided cantilever racking solution implies lower costs because of having fewer parts. Still, in case of high-volume storage, the benefits of investing in a cantilever rack double-sided configuration become obvious. Choosing the right cantilever racking system depends on both budget and storage requirements.
4. Warehouse Workflow
In addition to storage capacity, cantilever racking systems may have significant influence on the efficiency of operations carried out in warehouses.
A cantilever rack double-sided configuration usually makes loading and unloading easier since it ensures free access from both sides of the rack. A single-sided cantilever racking installation can be used for warehouses with relatively low inventory turnover.
Applications of Heavy-Duty Cantilever Racks
Many industries rely on heavy-duty cantilever racks because of their strength and flexibility.
Common applications include:
- Steel and metal storage
- Timber and plywood storage
- Pipe and tubing storage
- Furniture warehouses
- Automotive parts storage
- Construction material storage
All of the above require heavy-duty cantilever racks because of handling bulky materials that cannot be easily accommodated in other types of racking systems.
Choosing the Right Cantilever Racking System
In order to get the maximum benefit of installing cantilever racking systems, the right decision must be made regarding several aspects of a warehouse.
Warehouse Size
In case the warehouse is small, a single-sided cantilever racking installation should be considered. A larger warehouse can accommodate a cantilever rack double-sided solution.
Inventory Type
Long, heavy, and bulky materials require strong, heavy-duty cantilever racks with proper weight distribution.
Future Expansion
If there is an intention of increasing storage capacities in the nearest future, then it is necessary to purchase a cantilever rack double-sided system in accordance with the anticipated needs.
Quality and Durability
The choice of the manufacturer of cantilever racks is crucial for maintaining efficient and safe operations in your warehouse. At Simco Steel, we manufacture all types of cantilever racks, including single-sided and double-sided cantilever racking designs.
Why Simco Steel is the Right Choice
Our cantilever racking systems at Simco Steel are made especially for use in an industrial or warehouse setting. In our services, you may find different options of cantilever racking systems, such as single-sided and double-sided cantilever racking systems.
Simco Steel manufactures individual heavy-duty cantilever racks as well as reliable cantilever storage racks that may help to solve any issue related to storage requirements. The specialists at Simco Steel always take care of making all heavy-duty cantilever racks from the highest quality material.
As professionals engaged in the production of cantilever racking systems, we help our customers organise the process of organising items in the warehouse as well as create a safe work environment.
Conclusion
It is important to have some understanding of the difference between single-sided vs double-sided cantilever racking if you need to choose the best solution for storage. There are advantages and disadvantages of both types of cantilever racking systems, and their choice depends on your storage needs.
If you have limited space, a single-sided cantilever rack might be your best option, but for large volumes of storage, a cantilever racking system double-sided configuration will suit you better.
Acquiring the proper cantilever racking system not only improves inventory management and increases accessibility but also increases productivity within the warehouse. In whichever form it may be, be it small or large cantilever racks, purchasing high-quality cantilever rack solutions by competent cantilever rack manufacturers will provide maximum utility.
FAQs on Single-Sided vs Double-Sided Cantilever Racking
What is the difference between single-sided and double-sided cantilever racking?
The primary difference between these two cantilever racking systems lies in the arrangement of arms that form slots for goods. A single-sided system features arms only on one side of the rack, whereas a double-sided cantilever racking system involves both sides of it.
Which cantilever racking system is better for warehouses?
The decision about the optimal cantilever racking system depends on warehouse sizes and other factors. It is necessary to pay attention to such details as warehouse space, storage volume, inventory type, etc.
What materials can be stored in cantilever storage racks?
Cantilever racking systems are suitable for storing timber, steel pipes, furniture, and many other types of long or bulky products.
Are double-sided cantilever racks more expensive?
A cantilever racking double-sided system tends to cost more than a single-sided one. However, the increased storage capacity justifies the extra expense.
How do I choose the right cantilever rack manufacturers?
Choosing the right cantilever rack manufacturers implies checking their quality certificates, expertise, ability to manufacture custom solutions, etc.