Is Buying Used Pallet Rack Worth It?
We get this question almost every day… Do you stock and sell used pallet rack? The short answer is yes, but with a few important caveats. Our inventory of used racking is typically limited and while many buyers assume used equals major cost savings, the reality is more subtle.
💰 The perceived advantages of buying used:
From a buyer’s perspective, the appeal of used equipment is understandable. The top motivator is cost. A close second is availability, used pallet rack is often on-site and ready to ship, which can save time and reduce freight expenses.
But here’s where expectations and reality start to differ…
🚧 The realities of used Pallet Racking:
Many buyers mistakenly believe that buying used pallet racking is like buying a used car, expecting 50–60% savings compared to new. Unfortunately, that’s rarely the case.
Here’s why…
• Labor and logistics add up. Most used racking we acquire is still installed and standing. We send crews to disassemble it; then stack, band, and prep it for transport. It’s shipped via flatbed to our facility, all of which has significant costs associated with it.
• Outdoor storage takes a toll. Due to its size, used racking and wire decks are typically stored outside. Exposure to the elements causes rust and oxidation, especially on powder-coated finishes. While many buyers don’t mind cosmetic wear, it still affects value.
• Actual savings are modest. After factoring in labor, freight, storage and condition, the typical savings over new equipment is closer to 15–20%.
🛡️ Want a warranty or weight capacity certification?
• Used pallet rack systems do not come with warranties or weight ratings.
• Manufacturer warranties apply only to new Pallet Rack purchased through an authorized dealer.
• Published weight capacities are furnished and guaranteed only for new equipment (this cannot be furnished on used equipment or anytime after).
⚠️ Used Uprights… a word of caution:
One of the most critical issues with used pallet rack is upright integrity. We rarely sell used uprights, and for good reason. Roughly 4 out of 5 used uprights we inspect have damage generally to the lower 12–24″ of the front columns, usually from forklift impact.
* Buyer beware: Any dent or ding in an upright compromises its structural integrity. It should be discarded, not reused. Unfortunately, some sellers, especially on social media, will still offer damaged uprights. We won’t sell them, and we strongly advise you not to buy them!
✅ Our commitment to quality:
When we do offer used pallet rack, it’s because it meets our standards for safety and functionality. We’re transparent about condition, and we never cut corners, especially when it comes to structural integrity. More often than not, we will combine new with used racking. This generally consists of used Beams and Decks combined with new Uprights. This is a very common scenario.
Used pallet rack can be a smart buy in the right circumstances, but it’s not always the bargain it appears to be. If you’re considering used equipment, we’re happy to walk you through the pros, cons, and discuss our current inventory.
