Roll Out Cantilever Racking: Composition, Classification, and Industrial Applications

Types of Roll Out Cantilever Racking

Roll out cantilever racking is a specialized storage solution designed for handling long, bulky, or irregularly shaped materials such as pipes, lumber, panels, and tubing. Unlike traditional pallet racking, cantilever systems feature arms that extend from a vertical column, allowing unobstructed access to stored items. The "roll-out" design enhances accessibility and operational efficiency by enabling materials to be easily moved along the arms.

These systems are available in several configurations, each tailored to specific warehouse layouts, operational needs, and inventory types. Understanding the different types helps optimize space utilization, improve safety, and enhance workflow efficiency.

Single-Sided Cantilever Racks

Mounted against walls or used as standalone units with load-bearing arms on one side only.

Advantages

• Maximizes wall space utilization
• Ideal for one-sided access environments
• Cost-effective for linear storage setups
• Perfect for storing long materials like timber and piping

Limitations

• Limited access to only one side
• Less flexible in multi-aisle layouts
• Requires careful planning of workflow direction

Best for: Narrow warehouses, perimeter storage, facilities with single-direction material flow

Double-Sided Cantilever Racks

Features load arms extending from both sides of the central column, allowing access from two directions.

Advantages

• Doubles storage capacity per unit footprint
• Enables bidirectional loading/unloading
• Improves workflow flexibility in open layouts
• Suitable for central aisle configurations

Limitations

• Requires more floor space between units
• Higher initial investment
• Needs adequate clearance on both sides

Best for: Central storage zones, high-density warehouses, facilities with dual-aisle access

Mobile Roll-Out Cantilever Racks

Mounted on wheels or motorized carriages that allow the entire rack to be moved along tracks.

Advantages

• Significantly improves space efficiency
• Reduces number of aisles needed
• Adjustable positioning for dynamic inventory
• Ideal for seasonal or changing stock levels

Limitations

• Higher installation and maintenance costs
• Requires flat, reinforced flooring
• Mechanical components may need servicing

Best for: High-value storage, cold storage, facilities with limited floor space

Static Cantilever Racks

Fixed-position racks designed for permanent installation with superior structural stability.

Advantages

• Extremely durable and stable
• Supports very heavy and long loads
• Low maintenance and long service life
• Excellent load security and safety

Limitations

• Inflexible once installed
• Requires dedicated space planning
• Less adaptable to changing storage needs

Best for: Heavy industrial use, permanent storage zones, high-load applications

Cantilever Racks with Pull-Out Trays

Equipped with sliding shelves or trays that extend from the cantilever arms for enhanced access.

Advantages

• Provides precise access to individual items
• Reduces clutter and improves organization
• Ideal for small batches or mixed SKUs
• Enhances picking accuracy and speed

Limitations

• Trays have lower weight capacity
• More complex assembly and maintenance
• Higher cost due to mechanical components

Best for: Work-in-progress storage, fabrication shops, mixed-material environments

Type	Accessibility	Space Efficiency	Load Capacity	Ideal Use Case
Single-Sided	One-Side	Medium	High	Wall-mounted storage, linear workflows
Double-Sided	Two-Side	High	High	Central storage, dual-aisle access
Mobile	Adjustable	Very High	Medium to High	Dynamic inventory, space-constrained areas
Static	Fixed	Medium	Very High	Heavy-duty industrial storage
With Pull-Out Trays	Enhanced Access	Medium	Medium	Small parts, organized workspaces

Expert Tip: When designing a cantilever racking layout, always account for forklift turning radius and arm clearance. Ensure at least 6–12 inches of clearance beyond the longest stored item to prevent damage and ensure safe operation.

Industry Applications of Roll Out Cantilever Racking

Roll out cantilever racking systems are engineered for efficient, secure, and accessible storage of long, bulky, or irregularly shaped items. Their unique design—featuring arms that extend from vertical uprights without front columns—allows for unobstructed access to stored materials, making them ideal across a wide range of industries. These systems maximize vertical space utilization while supporting heavy loads, improving inventory organization, and enhancing operational safety.

Key Industry Applications

Lumber Yards

Lumber and other construction materials often come in long, heavy, and awkward dimensions, requiring specialized storage solutions to prevent warping, damage, and inefficient space use. Roll out cantilever racking provides strong, adjustable support for timber, engineered wood products, plywood, and framing components.

The open-front design allows forklifts or loaders to easily place and retrieve materials stored horizontally, minimizing handling time and reducing the risk of product damage. Adjustable arms accommodate varying lengths and load weights, ensuring optimal organization and space efficiency in busy lumber operations.

Manufacturing Facilities

In manufacturing environments, raw materials such as steel beams, aluminum extrusions, large motors, and oversized machine components require reliable storage that supports workflow efficiency. Cantilever racking offers a durable solution for storing these long or heavy items safely and accessibly.

The system is especially effective for managing irregularly shaped inventory like pipes, tubes, plates, and structural profiles. By organizing these materials off the floor and within easy reach, manufacturers reduce clutter, improve workplace safety, and streamline production processes.

Metalworking Shops

Metalworking operations deal with bulk materials such as metal sheets, rods, ingots, and tubing—all of which are prone to corrosion, bending, or surface damage if improperly stored. Roll out cantilever racks provide a structured, elevated storage environment that protects these valuable materials.

Customizable arm lengths and load capacities allow shops to configure racks based on specific material types and usage frequency. The roll-out feature enhances accessibility, enabling workers to pull forward stored loads without disturbing adjacent items—ideal for high-precision or just-in-time fabrication workflows.

Distribution Centers

Distribution centers handling large consumer goods—such as furniture, appliances, and building supplies—benefit significantly from cantilever racking. These facilities require flexible storage systems that maximize vertical space while enabling quick order fulfillment.

Cantilever shelving allows for the vertical stacking of bulky items without sacrificing accessibility. This reduces retrieval times, improves inventory turnover, and supports efficient warehouse operations. The sturdy construction ensures stability even with frequent loading and unloading cycles.

Automotive and Equipment Garages

Garages and service centers often store large, uniquely shaped items such as vehicle parts, machinery, tools, and sporting equipment. Traditional shelving can restrict access and waste space, but roll out cantilever systems provide an adaptable solution.

These racks support heavy automotive components like axles, drive shafts, and suspension systems, while also accommodating seasonal or oversized gear. The ability to customize arm positions ensures optimal use of space and easy access for technicians, improving service efficiency and shop organization.

Shipping and Logistics

In the shipping and logistics sector, efficient cargo handling is critical. Roll out cantilever racks are widely used to store long or bulky freight such as shipping crates, agricultural products, fishing equipment, and industrial raw materials before transport.

These racks help optimize trailer and container loading by pre-organizing cargo in a way that maximizes space utilization and minimizes loading time. Their mobility and modular design make them suitable for both warehouse staging areas and transport vehicles, enhancing supply chain efficiency.

Industry	Common Stored Items	Key Benefits
Lumber Yards	Timber, plywood, engineered wood, framing	Prevents warping, enables easy access, supports heavy loads
Manufacturing	Steel beams, pipes, extrusions, machine parts	Organizes irregular shapes, improves safety, reduces clutter
Metalworking	Metal sheets, rods, tubes, ingots	Protects materials, customizable layout, roll-out access
Distribution Centers	Furniture, appliances, building supplies	Maximizes vertical space, speeds up order picking
Garages & Workshops	Vehicle parts, tools, machinery	Efficient organization, supports heavy items, easy retrieval
Shipping & Logistics	Cargo crates, agricultural goods, fishing gear	Optimizes transport space, streamlines loading

Important: When selecting roll out cantilever racking, always consider load capacity, arm span, upright height, and environmental conditions (e.g., indoor vs. outdoor use). Proper installation and regular inspections are essential to maintain structural integrity and ensure long-term safety and performance.

Product Specifications and Features of Roll Out Cantilever Racking

Roll out cantilever racking systems are engineered for efficient, high-capacity storage of long, bulky, or irregularly shaped materials such as lumber, piping, panels, and furniture. Their unique design allows for unobstructed front access and seamless integration with forklifts or manual handling equipment. These racks are widely used in warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and distribution centers where space optimization and load accessibility are critical.

Adjustable Arms

One of the most valuable features of roll out cantilever racking is the ability to adjust arm height. This flexibility allows users to customize shelf levels based on the dimensions and volume of stored goods, maximizing vertical space utilization.

• Arms can be repositioned in incremental steps (typically every 3" to 6") using pin-hole or bolt-on mechanisms
• Ideal for handling mixed inventory such as timber, steel beams, or PVC pipes of varying lengths
• Adjustability reduces wasted space and prevents overstocking on lower levels

Best practice: Regularly reassess arm positioning as inventory profiles change to maintain optimal efficiency

Load Capacity

Cantilever racks are built to support heavy-duty industrial loads, with capacities varying by frame design, arm configuration, and material grade. Each component is rated to ensure safe and reliable operation.

• Arm capacities typically range from 500 lbs (227 kg) to over 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg) per arm
• Frame load ratings consider total arm loading and lateral stability
• Proper load distribution across arms prevents tipping and structural stress

Safety note: Always adhere to manufacturer-specified load limits and avoid overloading beyond rated capacity

Roll-Out Trays or Shelves

Integrated roll-out trays significantly enhance the functionality of cantilever systems by enabling easy access to smaller or frequently retrieved items without disrupting the entire load.

• Telescoping shelves extend smoothly on ball-bearing slides for full access
• Perfect for storing hardware, fittings, tools, or packaging materials alongside bulk items
• Reduces worker strain and improves picking accuracy in mixed-load environments

Efficiency boost: Roll-out trays can reduce retrieval time by up to 40% compared to static shelving

Durable Materials

Constructed primarily from high-tensile steel, roll out cantilever racks are designed for longevity and resilience in demanding industrial environments.

• Frames and arms are typically made from cold-formed steel or structural-grade carbon steel
• Many models feature powder-coated or galvanized finishes to resist corrosion, moisture, and chemical exposure
• Reinforced uprights and bracing ensure stability under dynamic loading conditions

Long-term value: Quality coatings extend service life, especially in humid or outdoor storage areas

Modular Design

The modular nature of cantilever racking allows for easy expansion, reconfiguration, or relocation as operational needs evolve.

• Sections can be added or removed to increase or decrease storage footprint
• Single-sided and double-sided configurations offer layout flexibility
• Modularity supports scalability for growing businesses or seasonal inventory changes

Future-proofing: Modular systems reduce the need for complete overhauls when storage demands shift

Installation & Stability

Proper installation is crucial for safety and performance. Cantilever racks require secure anchoring and level placement to handle heavy loads safely.

• Uprights must be bolted to a concrete floor using anchor bolts for lateral stability
• Cross-bracing or tie rods are often included to prevent racking sway
• Self-aligning connectors simplify assembly and ensure structural integrity

Installation tip: Use a laser level during setup to ensure perfect alignment and balance

Technical and Key Specifications

Specification	Typical Range	Application Notes
Height	6 ft (1.8 m) to 20+ ft (6.1+ m)	Taller units require additional bracing; ensure ceiling clearance and forklift reach compatibility
Base Length (Upright Spacing)	6 ft (1.8 m) to 10 ft (3.0 m)	Longer bases support oversized loads like drywall or lumber; shorter bases suit tighter spaces
Arm Length	18 in (0.45 m) to 60 in (1.5 m)	Select arm length to extend at least 6–12 inches beyond load ends for secure support
Load Capacity (Per Arm)	500–6,000+ lbs (227–2,722+ kg)	Higher capacities use thicker gauge steel and reinforced mounting points
Material	High-strength carbon steel (ASTM A36 or equivalent)	Galvanized or powder-coated finishes enhance durability in harsh environments

Professional Recommendation: When selecting roll out cantilever racking, prioritize load requirements and workflow patterns. Opt for adjustable, modular systems with roll-out trays if handling mixed inventory. Always verify floor conditions and ceiling clearance, and ensure compliance with OSHA and ANSI MH16.1 safety standards for industrial storage racks. Investing in high-quality, durable components reduces long-term maintenance and enhances workplace safety.

Additional Considerations

• Seismic Rating: In earthquake-prone areas, specify racks with seismic certification and enhanced bracing
• Aisle Width: Allow sufficient space (typically 10–14 ft) for forklift maneuvering and safe loading/unloading
• Labeling & Organization: Use color-coded arms or digital tags to improve inventory visibility and reduce errors
• Maintenance: Regularly inspect for bent arms, loose bolts, or corrosion—especially in high-traffic zones
• Customization: Many suppliers offer custom arm angles, tray sizes, or protective guards for unique applications

How to Choose Roll Out Cantilever Racking: A Comprehensive Buyer’s Guide

Selecting the right roll out cantilever racking system is crucial for optimizing warehouse efficiency, ensuring product safety, and maximizing storage capacity. Unlike traditional racking, roll out cantilever systems offer dynamic access to long, bulky, or irregularly shaped items such as lumber, piping, furniture, and steel beams. This guide breaks down the key factors to consider when choosing a system that aligns with your operational needs, space constraints, and long-term goals.

Important Note: Roll out cantilever racking combines the accessibility of cantilever arms with the mobility of roll-out trays or carriages. This makes it ideal for high-density storage of materials that require frequent access but are too long or awkward for standard pallet racking. Always consult with a structural engineer or racking specialist before finalizing your system design, especially for heavy or high-bay installations.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Roll Out Cantilever Racking

1. Nature of Stored Items

   The physical characteristics of your inventory directly influence the design, load capacity, and configuration of your racking system. Understanding your materials ensures both safety and functionality.

   • Weight: Light materials (e.g., plastic pipes, insulation) may only require light-duty steel or aluminum arms, while heavy loads (e.g., steel bars, concrete panels) demand high-strength structural steel with reinforced uprights and bracing.
   • Dimensions: Long or oversized items require extended arms and proper column spacing. Measure the length, width, and height of your largest items to determine optimal arm span and clearance.
   • Shape and Fragility: Irregular or delicate items (e.g., glass, finished wood) benefit from padded arms, enclosed trays, or adjustable supports to prevent damage during storage and retrieval.
   • Load Distribution: Ensure even weight distribution across arms. For concentrated loads, consider adding intermediate supports or using roll-out trays with integrated load bars.
2. Available Space and Layout

   Efficient use of warehouse space is critical. The available footprint and ceiling height will dictate the size, height, and orientation of your cantilever system.

   • Measure the exact floor area and vertical clearance where the racking will be installed, including doorways and overhead obstructions.
   • Determine whether a single-sided or double-sided configuration best suits your layout. Double-sided units maximize space but require aisle access from both sides.
   • Plan for adequate aisles—typically 10–12 feet wide—for forklifts or reach trucks to maneuver safely, especially when handling long loads.
   • Consider ceiling height and sprinkler system requirements; ensure at least 6 inches of clearance between the top of the load and any overhead fixtures.
3. Mobility and Access Requirements

   Roll out cantilever systems are designed for dynamic access, but the level of mobility depends on your inventory turnover and workflow.

   • Roll-Out Trays: Ideal for high-turnover items. These trays extend on rollers or slides, allowing full access to rear-stored materials without unloading the front items—perfect for FIFO (First In, First Out) inventory systems.
   • Static Cantilever Arms: Suitable for low-turnover or rarely accessed items. More cost-effective but less flexible in retrieval.
   • Mobile Base Options: Some roll-out systems can be mounted on mobile carriages for additional flexibility in tight spaces, though they require floor tracks and more maintenance.
   • Assess how frequently items are accessed and whether partial or full-depth access is needed.
4. Budget and Total Cost of Ownership

   While upfront cost is important, consider the long-term value and operational efficiency of your investment.

   • Initial Cost: Roll out systems are generally more expensive than static cantilever racks due to mechanical components (rollers, slides, bearings).
   • ROI Considerations: The increased efficiency, reduced labor time, and minimized product damage often justify the higher initial cost in high-usage environments.
   • Maintenance: Roll-out mechanisms require periodic inspection and lubrication. Factor in maintenance costs and downtime when comparing options.
   • Scalability: Choose a modular system that allows for future expansion or reconfiguration as your storage needs evolve.
5. Installation and Maintenance

   Proper installation ensures safety, longevity, and compliance with industry standards such as OSHA and ANSI MH16.1.

   • DIY vs. Professional Installation: While some lightweight systems can be assembled in-house, heavy-duty or roll-out configurations often require professional installation to ensure alignment, stability, and load capacity accuracy.
   • Foundation Requirements: Cantilever racks must be anchored to a concrete floor. Uneven or weak flooring can compromise structural integrity.
   • Assembly Time: Complex roll-out systems may take several days to install, depending on size and configuration. Plan accordingly to minimize operational disruption.
   • Ongoing Maintenance: Regularly inspect arms, uprights, bolts, and rolling mechanisms for wear, corrosion, or damage. Keep moving parts clean and lubricated.

Selection Factor	Key Questions to Ask	Recommended Features	Potential Risks of Poor Selection
Nature of Items	What is the max weight and length? Is the load fragile?	Reinforced arms, load stops, rubber padding	Structural failure, product damage
Available Space	What is the ceiling height and floor area?	Custom heights, single/double-sided options	Wasted space, access issues
Mobility Needs	How often are items accessed?	Roll-out trays, sliding carriages	Inefficient retrieval, labor waste
Budget	Is long-term efficiency prioritized over initial cost?	Modular design, durable materials	Higher TCO, frequent replacements
Installation	Do we have skilled labor or need professional help?	Pre-assembled kits, anchor bolts, alignment guides	Safety hazards, instability

Expert Tip: Before purchasing, request a site evaluation from a reputable racking supplier. Many offer 3D modeling services to visualize how the roll out cantilever system will fit and function in your space, helping you avoid costly mistakes and optimize layout efficiency.

Additional Recommendations

• Label arms and levels clearly to streamline inventory management and reduce loading errors.
• Train staff on proper loading techniques—always center loads and avoid overhanging beyond arm ends.
• Implement a regular inspection schedule (monthly visual checks, annual professional audits) to maintain safety compliance.
• Consider integrating your racking system with warehouse management software (WMS) for real-time inventory tracking.
• Choose powder-coated or galvanized finishes for enhanced durability, especially in humid or corrosive environments.

Choosing the right roll out cantilever racking system is a strategic decision that impacts safety, efficiency, and operational cost. By carefully evaluating the nature of your inventory, available space, mobility needs, budget, and installation requirements, you can select a system that not only meets your current demands but also scales with your business. When in doubt, consult with a certified storage solutions provider to ensure your investment delivers maximum value and long-term reliability.

Frequently Asked Questions About Roll-Out Cantilever Racks

Q1: What is a roll-out cantilever rack?

A roll-out cantilever rack is a specialized storage solution engineered to hold long, bulky, or awkward materials such as pipes, lumber, metal rods, boards, and tubing. Unlike traditional shelving, it features open-sided arms on both left and right sides, allowing items to be stored horizontally and accessed easily from either side.

The standout feature of this system is its roll-out design—each shelf or arm assembly slides outward like a heavy-duty drawer. This enables users to reach materials stored toward the back without having to move items from the front first, significantly improving efficiency and safety in industrial, warehouse, and workshop environments.

These racks are typically constructed from high-strength steel to support heavy loads and are ideal for applications where space optimization and easy access are critical.

Q2: Are roll-out cantilever racks adjustable?

Yes, most roll-out cantilever racks are highly adjustable to accommodate a wide variety of materials and storage needs. The horizontal arms that support the load can be repositioned vertically along the upright columns at different height intervals, allowing customization based on item length, weight, and frequency of access.

This adjustability makes the system incredibly versatile—for example, you can raise an arm to store large sheets of plywood or lower another to securely hold shorter pieces of conduit or pipe. Some models also offer telescoping arms that extend to fit varying load widths.

Adjustments are typically made using pin-and-hole mechanisms or bolt-together configurations, ensuring stability and load security. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines when reconfiguring the rack to maintain structural integrity and safety compliance.

Q3: What are the benefits of using a cantilever rack?

Cantilever racks offer numerous operational and safety advantages, especially in environments that handle long or irregularly shaped materials. Key benefits include:

• Enhanced Accessibility: The roll-out design allows full access to stored items without disturbing adjacent materials, reducing handling time and labor costs.
• Space Efficiency: By storing long items horizontally and off the floor, these racks free up valuable floor space and help organize cluttered work areas.
• Improved Safety: Keeping materials neatly stored and elevated reduces tripping hazards and prevents damage from moisture or debris on the ground.
• Durability: Constructed from robust steel, cantilever racks are built to withstand heavy use and resist damage from forklifts or equipment.
• Customization: Adjustable arms and modular designs allow the rack to evolve with changing storage needs across different industries—construction, manufacturing, plumbing, and woodworking.
• Visibility: Open-front and open-side designs make inventory easy to see and manage, supporting efficient stock rotation and reducing search time.

Overall, roll-out cantilever racks contribute to a safer, more organized, and productive workspace.

Q4: How much weight can a cantilever rack hold?

The weight capacity of a roll-out cantilever rack varies significantly depending on the model, design, materials used, and engineering specifications. Load limits are typically defined per arm and per upright column, with options ranging from light-duty (500 lbs per arm) to heavy-duty systems capable of supporting 5,000 lbs or more per arm.

It’s crucial to consult the manufacturer’s load chart and never exceed the rated capacity for individual arms or the total frame. Overloading can lead to structural deformation, collapse, and serious safety hazards.

Several factors influence load capacity:

• Arm Length: Longer arms generally support less weight than shorter ones due to increased leverage.
• Upright Spacing: Closer spacing between uprights increases overall stability and load-bearing capability.
• Material Type: High-grade steel with reinforced bracing offers greater strength and longevity.
• Roll-Out Mechanism: Ball-bearing sliders or heavy-duty rollers affect both smoothness and load tolerance.

To ensure long-term performance and safety, always perform routine inspections for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage, and adhere strictly to the manufacturer’s installation and loading guidelines.