Anatomy
How cantilever racking is built
| Component | Function | Sizing notes |
|---|---|---|
| Base | Anchored to slab, takes overturning moment | Length scales with arm length |
| Column | Vertical member, arm receiver | Bolted or welded at base |
| Arm | Cantilevered load support | Set at length to suit heaviest load |
| Bracing | Ties columns together (multi-column rows) | Required for stability |
When to use it
Selective vs cantilever — quick decision
- Loads > 2.4 m → cantilever almost always wins.
- Loads < 2.4 m and palletised → stick with selective.
- Variable lengths → cantilever (no front upright to fight with).
- High-density bulk timber/steel → cantilever with deep arms.
- Mixed pallet + long load warehouses → run both systems in zones.
Don't undersize the arm
Always specify arm capacity for the heaviest expected load, not the average. Bending failures happen at the arm-to-column connection — under-specified arms are the most common cause.
Install considerations
Anchoring and inspection
Cantilever is overturning-prone by design. Base anchors must be designed for the worst-case loaded condition, not just the empty rack. Inspect arm welds, column-to-base bolts and anchor torque on a quarterly cycle, and independently to AS 4084:2023 each year.