![[BUYING GUIDE] How to Choose the Right Shelving?](/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/Featured-7-1000x667.jpg)
Selecting the appropriate shelving to store goods vertically is crucial for maximizing space and facilitating faster, more convenient handling. We have produced this buying guide to help you make the right choice.
Here are the key questions you may ask yourself:
- What are the most important criteria for choosing the right shelving?
- Which shelving for which load?
- Which shelving for which storage system?
- Which shelving is right for storing everyday products?
- Are there any storage solutions for specific items?
- Which material should you choose?
- What is the budget needed for installing a shelving solution?
And here are a recap of our key recommendations:
Material Selection
The choice of material impacts durability, load capacity, and suitability for different environments:
- Wood: Offers natural resistance and sound absorption. Suitable for offices and archiving.
- Plastic: Lightweight and resistant to moisture, making it ideal for cold storage, catering, and wet environments.
- Metal: Provides high mechanical strength. Stainless steel and aluminum variants are hygienic and easy to maintain, suitable for medical and pharmaceutical sectors.
- Glass: Used in specific cases where visibility and aesthetics are priorities.
Load Capacity
Determine the weight of items to be stored to select appropriate shelving:
- Light Loads (<250 kg): Suitable for files, folders, and small containers.
- Medium Loads (250–900 kg): Ideal for boxes, tires, and spare parts.
- Heavy Loads (>900 kg): Designed for pallets, heavy equipment, and industrial materials.
Storage Systems
Choose a storage system based on accessibility and inventory management:
- Fixed Shelving: Standard static units for general use.
- Dynamic Shelving: Incorporates rollers for easy movement of boxes and bins, suitable for logistics.
- Mobile Shelving: Mounted on rails or wheels to maximize space, ideal for archives.
- Cantilever Racking: Designed for long items like pipes and lumber.
- Shuttle Shelving: Allows for drive-in or drive-through access, facilitating efficient inventory management.
Specialized Applications
Certain shelving types cater to specific storage requirements:
- Bunded Shelving: Equipped with containment features for storing hazardous substances safely.
- Cold Storage Shelving: Constructed from materials resistant to low temperatures and moisture.
- Cleanroom Shelving: Made from materials that minimize particle accumulation, suitable for sterile environments.
Budget Considerations
Assess the total cost, including installation and maintenance:
- Initial Investment: Costs vary based on material, size, and complexity.
- Maintenance: Consider the ease of cleaning, potential for corrosion, and availability of replacement parts.
- Compliance: Ensure shelving meets local safety standards and includes necessary documentation.
