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[BUYING GUIDE] How to Choose the Right Shelving?

Selecting the appropriate shelving to store goods vertically is crucial for maximizing space and facilitating faster, more convenient handling. (AdobeStock)

by DirectIndustry

April 15, 20256 minsUpdated on December 2, 2025

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 key criteria should I consider when choosing shelving?

Key criteria include available space, weight and type of items to store, shelving system type (fixed, mobile, dynamic, cantilever, shuttle), storage environment, product type, safety standards, documentation, and maintenance.

How should I choose shelving based on load capacity?

Light loads (<250 kg) suit office or archive shelving. Medium loads (250–900 kg) suit boxes or crates. Heavy loads (>900 kg) require heavy-duty or pallet racking solutions.

Which storage systems are available and how to choose among them?

Options include fixed, mobile (on rails/wheels), dynamic, cantilever, shuttle/drive-in or drive-through racking. Choice depends on item size, shape, weight, access method, and inventory management (FIFO/LIFO).

Which materials are best depending on environment and use?

Metal (steel, stainless steel, aluminum) is durable and strong for industrial/heavy loads. Wood is good for offices or archives. Plastic/PVC works in wet, humid, or cold environments. Glass is only for light loads and display purposes.

Are there shelving solutions for specific or unusual storage needs?

Yes — options exist for long items (pipes, beams), tires, drums, hazardous materials, clean rooms, cold storage, and other specialized use cases.

What budget should I expect beyond just buying the racks?

Costs depend on load capacity, material, shelving type, installation complexity, modules, optional features, maintenance, and compliance with safety standards.

What safety and maintenance considerations should I not forget?

Ensure compliance with safety regulations, maintain documentation, perform regular inspections, verify load ratings, and provide operator training.

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.

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