Bolted pallet rack and welded pallet rack have been the subject of debate for a while now among manufacturers and warehouse owners. Bolted pallet rack is more common in Europe, and welded rack is more common in North America. Although most people feel strongly about one or the other, there are advantages to either type of pallet rack.
Bolted pallet rack is generally less expensive than welded rack. It is easier to repair, and is the best option if you need galvanized steel (which doesn’t rust), for storage in certain industries like food and pharmaceuticals. Galvanized steel shouldn’t be welded because it releases toxic fumes and destroys the finish. Bolted rack is also less expensive to transport because it is possible to ship it knocked down, although we ship it assembled so it is the same price as welded rack. Most people feel that bolted pallet rack is superior engineering wise to welded rack, since it allows for human error with someone welding the rack together instead of just a basic bolt.
- Bolted Pallet Rack – Left, Welded Pallet Rack – Right
Welded pallet rack can have reduced installation costs if you ship bolted rack knocked down, but since we ship ours assembled, the installation costs are the same. Footplates can be welded or bolted on, but in certain seismic environments, they must be welded on, but can still go on bolted pallet rack.
Many people believe that the bolts can fall out in bolted rack, which is not true. The bolts are very secure and meet the same pallet rack safety standards as welded rack. All in all, either type of rack can be used depending on the unique situation, location, and manufacturer it comes from. You can find more information on pallet rack here, and contact us with any questions.
