Step 4. Determine the Relevant Dimensions of Your Parts
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Disclaimer: This article references European/Dutch standards (NEN-EN) relevant to pallet racking in the Netherlands. If you operate outside the Netherlands, please consult the applicable local standards and legislation.
After the load plate has been checked, if present, the next step is identifying the parts of the pallet racking for which you don't yet have information. The frame forms the vertical structure of the rack and, together with the beams, determines the total height, depth and load capacity of the structure.
Structure of a frame
A standard frame consists of two uprights – the vertical profiles – which are connected to each other with braces. The braces provide the rigidity and stability of the whole. With different manufacturers (such as Stow, Meta, Mecalux or Esnova), the shape, pattern and spacing of this bracing can vary, resulting in many different types with different load capacities.
Important dimensions of a frame
To be able to order the correct replacement frame or frame parts, the following dimensions are essential:
- Height of the frame or upright: the total height of the structure, measured from the floor to the top of the profile.
- Depth of the frame: the distance between the two uprights, determining the type of pallet that can be placed (usually 800 mm, 1050 mm or 1100 mm).
- Width of the upright: the outer dimension of the profile, often between 70 and 120 mm depending on the load capacity.
- Material thickness of the upright: the thickness of the steel, usually between 1.5 and 3.5 mm, determining the rigidity.
- Type and pattern of the bracing: cross braces, diagonal braces or welded bracing — each brand uses a specific pattern and hole spacing.
By carefully recording these measurements and, if possible, comparing them with the original materials list or the 0-file, it can quickly be determined which type of frame and which manufacturer is involved. On Rack.Parts you can then filter by height, depth and bracing pattern to find the correct version.
Identify and measure the beams
The beams connect the frames to each other and carry the pallets or shelves. They determine the bay width, load capacity and configuration of the pallet racking. Correct identification is essential when replacing or extending the racking.
Important dimensions of beams
The following dimensions are needed to select the correct type of beam:
- Length of the beam: measured between the inner sides of the frames. This is the effective bay width (e.g. 2700 mm or 3300 mm).
- Height of the beam: the vertical dimension of the profile (e.g. 90, 100 or 120 mm), directly linked to the load capacity.
- Thickness of the beam: the material thickness of the steel, often between 1.5 and 3 mm, depending on load and design.
- Type of beam: distinction between 2C beams (double C-profile) and box beams (closed box profile). Box beams are lighter and suitable for lighter pallets or order-picking applications; 2C beams are used for heavier or dynamic loads.
Identifying features
Each manufacturer uses a specific locking system for the beam connectors. The shape, the number of lugs and the position of the locking pin are important identifying points. By taking a clear photo of the beam end and the perforation pattern of the upright, the correct combination can easily be determined on Rack.Parts.
Check the configuration
Always check whether the beams match the configuration on the load plate and in the 0-file. If the number of levels or the height setting has been changed, the original loads may no longer be valid. A new calculation or check by a certified inspector is then necessary.
In summary
By measuring accurately and comparing with the technical specifications, you prevent the wrong parts from being ordered. This not only increases the efficiency of your warehouse management, but also guarantees that structural safety is maintained.
