Recently, I was preparing a warehouse layout for sheet metal storage and long steel materials storage solutions for an international customer from Argentina. Many questions came up — rack height, layer quantity, forklift operation, and maximum loading capacity. Customers want to ensure racks can hold enough material. But maximum loading is not always the best choice.
As a distributor, a Forklift Sheet Metal Rack was the most suitable solution for sheets. Designing it properly was the challenge. The first question was: “What is the maximum number of layers?” There isn’t a fixed answer. It depends on the forklift’s working height. It also depends on the loading per layer. Heavier sheets increase layer height and reduce the total number of layers. This shows why rack design is about balance — not just maximum loading.
Our standard loading for a Forklift Sheet Metal Rack is 3 tons per layer. But is this suitable for the buyer? Since the customer is a distributor, we consider the minimum order quantity for their buyers. If buyers usually purchase only one ton, designing for three tons is unnecessary.
We usually recommend 2 tons per layer. It is strong enough, avoids overdesign, and keeps the rack safe, practical, and cost-effective. Adjusting loading per layer helps optimize storage efficiency.
Sheet Metal Storage Solutions -Forklift Sheet Metal Rack
A Forklift Sheet Metal Rack is also called a sheet tower, sheet cartridge, or sheet cassette. These systems are designed for efficient sheet metal storage in bulk. They allow bulk retrievals and make handling safer and faster. Choosing the right type of rack is essential for high capacity and smooth workflow.
When designing a sheet metal rack, I always check forklift /crane reach, floor loading, and layer clearance. This ensures racks are safe, materials can be accessed easily, and the warehouse floor can support the weight. Practical checks are as important as structural design.
Clear communication is just as important as design. Ensuring the customer understands the layout and design decisions helps avoid mistakes and improves workflow in sheet metal storage facilities.
At Nanjing CUNKE, we always design sheet metal storage racking systems based on real conditions — not just numbers. Whether the project is local or international, our goal is to help customers achieve both storage efficiency and safe operation, with the most suitable sheet metal storage rack design.
