Note: This article references Dutch legislation and regulations (including the Bouwbesluit/BBL and RI&E requirements under Dutch Arbo law). This information applies to the Dutch situation and may differ in other countries.
Step-by-Step Plan: How to Recognize Your Pallet Racking
Correctly identifying your pallet racking is essential when ordering replacement parts or extensions. Every manufacturer uses specific dimensions, profiles and connection systems. A wrong choice can lead to unsafe situations or parts that don't fit. With this step-by-step plan, you can easily determine which brand and type of racking you have – so that you can find the right parts directly at Rack.Parts.
Step 1. Consult the original bill of materials or B.O.M.
When you purchased your pallet racking, a B.O.M. (Bill of Materials) or materials list was often supplied. This lists all components, including brand, type, dimensions and load capacities.
- Search your archive, ask your supplier, or check the original quotation.
- Look for designations such as "Esnova ER76", "Meta Clip", "Stow 12" or "Dexion P90" — these are clear brand-specific references.
- Check whether the load values mentioned match the load plates on the racking (see step 2).
- You can also request the materials list and article numbers from your supplier. Since pallet racking falls under Dutch building regulations (the Bouwbesluit), the supplier is required to provide a "0-file" (zero file) at delivery containing this information. This file contains technical specifications, certificates and instructions for use that are essential for safe use and maintenance.
Step 2. Check the load plates on the racking
Every approved pallet racking system has a load plate with important technical information. This shows:
- Brand name and type of the racking;
- Type of frame used in the racking
- Type and length of the beams used
- Permitted load per pair of beams;
- Maximum bay load;
- Possibly a serial number or order number from the manufacturer.
Take a photo of this plate — this helps in identifying the correct brand or in looking up parts via Rack.Parts.
Step 3. Inspect the structural details
If the load plate is missing, you can often recognize the brand by specific details in the frame or beam:
- Profile shape of the uprights (C-profile, omega profile or closed box section);
- Shape of the perforation holes (round, rectangular, keyhole- or diamond-shaped);
- Design of the beams
Rack.Parts offers a convenient filter function by brand, dimensions, material thicknesses and more, so you can compare your racking using photos and dimensions.
Step 4. Measure the key dimensions
With a simple tape measure, you can record most of the key measurements:
- Outer width of the frame;
- Thickness of the uprights used
- Material thickness of frame and beams
- Depth of the racking;
- Length of the beam (net distance between frames);
- Height of the beam
- Thickness of the beam
- Bracing pattern
This information is often sufficient to select the right frames, beams or braces via Rack.Parts.
Step 5. Use Rack.Parts to filter parts
- Go to rack.parts and choose the correct brand from the list (e.g. Stow, Meta, Dexion, Hovuma).
- Filter by product category – for example beams, frames, locking pins or protectors.
- Compare the product photos and technical specifications with your existing racking.
- Add the parts to your cart and order directly online.
Step 6. Check compatibility for used parts
For used parts, it is especially important that dimensions and connections match your current system exactly. Rack.Parts checks every used part visually and technically, so you can be assured of a safe and reliable fit if it concerns the same parts as in your existing racking configuration.
Step 7. Keep the collected information
Save your photos, B.O.M. and any inspection reports digitally with your racking information. This way you can quickly find parts again in the future and better comply with the traceability requirements within your risk inventory and evaluation (RI&E).
Step 8. Let Rack.Parts take a look with you
Still not entirely sure despite these steps? The specialists at Rack.Parts are happy to take a look with you and help determine the right brand, type and required parts. This way you always order the correct components for your pallet racking safely and with confidence.
