MASON, OHIO- Today, we thought we would take a little walk down memory lane to one of the more unique projects we have ever completed…
In September, 2003 a severe thunderstorm passed directly over King’s Island Amusement Park in Mason (Cincinnati), Ohio. Though very little major damage was done to the park itself, the iconic King’s Island marquee sign, visible from I-71 literally blew over. That old sign had been welcoming visitors to King’s Island for 30+ years.
A month or two later, we were contacted by an engineering firm designing the new sign for the park. This new sign was going to incorporate a newly refreshed logo and be 4-5 times larger than the old one. We were asked for a ladder solution for workers to SAFELY access the upper levels of the interior of the sign for service or maintenance.
We along with the Engineering team at Vestil Manufacturing came up with and eventually manufactured and shipped a Steel Caged Walk-Thru Fixed Access Ladder system (very similar to the one pictured above) which started at the bottom of the sign and went nearly to the top. The sign was built with a series of work platforms. The series of ladders were positioned at different sides of each “platform”. These were all custom built. This allowed workers to maintain and repair the sign safely, entirely from the interior of the sign.
The final product… the sign still stands today. While we didn’t install the fixed ladders in the sign (the ladders were shipped to the sign company and they did) the collaborative efforts of our companies made for a very smooth (not to mention interesting) project!
Contact our team of experts for a wide range of OSHA and BOCA approved Steel Rolling Ladders of various designs and styles.
All of our Ladders are proudly manufactured in the United States!
Keeping pallet jacks from rolling during transport can be a challenge in delivery trucks and trailers. When a pallet jack moves freely inside a truck bed, it can damage freight, trailer walls, and loading doors. Midwest Material Handling supplies a wide range of industrial material handling equipment in Ohio, including solutions that help secure pallet jacks during delivery and transport.
How the Pallet Truck Stop Works
The pallet truck stop acts as a wheel cradle that captures the rear load wheels of a pallet jack. Once the wheels are positioned in the molded rubber pocket, the jack remains stationary while the vehicle is moving.
The heavy rubber construction provides excellent grip and durability, allowing the stop to stay in place even during frequent loading and unloading. Because the unit is portable, it can easily be repositioned inside a truck bed or trailer depending on the layout of the load.
Benefits of Using a Pallet Jack Truck Stop
Using a pallet jack stop inside a delivery truck or trailer offers several advantages:
Prevents pallet jacks from rolling during transport
Helps protect freight and packaged goods
Reduces the risk of damage to trailer walls and loading doors
Provides a simple, low-cost safety solution for delivery vehicles
Requires no installation or permanent mounting
This type of pallet jack wheel stop is commonly used by delivery drivers, warehouse teams, and logistics operations that transport pallet jacks with their shipments.
Pallet Truck Stop Specifications
Manufacturer: Vestil Construction: Heavy-duty molded rubber Design: Wheel cradle for pallet jack load wheels Use: Secures pallet jacks in truck beds and delivery trailers during transport
Industrial Material Handling Equipment in Ohio
Midwest Material Handling supplies a wide range of industrial material handling equipment used in warehouses, distribution centers, and delivery operations. In addition to pallet jack accessories, we provide solutions for moving, storing, and handling materials safely and efficiently.
Steel industrial ladders are a practical solution for warehouses, retail facilities, distribution centers and manufacturing operations where employees need safe access to elevated shelving and storage. Unlike a conventional step ladder, an industrial steel rolling ladder is designed to be moved around the facility and typically includes wheels or casters, a larger standing platform and a locking system for stability during use.
Midwest Material Handling sells a full range of steel rolling ladders, including 4-step models for everyday warehouse access and taller rolling ladders for reaching higher shelving and storage areas. Whether you are replacing an existing warehouse ladder or outfitting a new facility, choosing the right height, tread style and safety features can make a significant difference in how the ladder performs. Steel rolling warehouse ladders fall within our broader material handling equipment family of products.
Steel Rolling Ladders Used by Customers Nationwide
Our steel rolling ladders are used by customers throughout the United States, including BJ’s Wholesale Club locations nationwide.
Supplying a large national retailer requires consistent product quality, dependable availability and the ability to coordinate freight to multiple locations. Our experience supplying BJ’s Wholesale Club is another example of how our steel rolling ladders are used in demanding commercial and warehouse environments.
Whether you need a single rolling ladder for a local warehouse or multiple ladders for facilities across the country, Midwest Material Handling can help with product selection, pricing and nationwide freight.
4-Step Steel Rolling Ladder for Multi-Level Shelving
BJ’s Wholesale Club was looking for a mobile steel rolling ladder that could safely reach multiple levels of shelving while improving employee safety and efficiency. The customer had several specific requirements. They wanted a larger top platform, wider step treads and additional safety features to help reduce the possibility of slips or improper use. They also requested a safety chain to prevent the ladder from being used while it was stored. For additional stability during operation, they wanted a self-locking bottom step using the Saf-T-Lock system.
We worked with Tri-Arc Manufacturing to develop a steel rolling ladder that met the customer’s requirements. The initial ladder was provided as a trial unit so the customer could evaluate it in their actual warehouse environment. After several weeks of daily use, the customer was confident in the ladder’s design, stability and performance. BJ’s Wholesale ultimately purchased 26 identical steel rolling ladders, which were shipped to multiple warehouse club locations throughout the United States.
This project illustrates why choosing a rolling ladder is about more than simply selecting the number of steps. Platform size, tread design, working height, caster configuration and locking system all need to match the application.
Steel Rolling Ladder Options
Steel rolling ladders are available in several configurations to accommodate different warehouse and industrial environments. The right configuration depends on how the ladder will be used, the conditions in the facility and the height employees need to reach.
2-4 Step Steel Rolling Ladders
A 2-4 step steel rolling ladder is one of the most popular choices for everyday warehouse applications. These shorter rolling ladders are useful for accessing shelving, picking inventory and reaching products stored above normal working height. For facilities where employees frequently move between storage locations, a rolling ladder provides a convenient alternative to carrying and repositioning a conventional step ladder.
Taller Steel Rolling Ladders
Taller rolling ladders are designed for applications where employees need to reach higher shelving and storage areas. Models with 8, 10, 12, 14 or more steps can provide the additional working height required for taller warehouse shelving and multi-level storage applications. When selecting a taller rolling ladder, it is especially important to consider the platform height and the actual working height required rather than choosing a ladder based solely on the number of steps.
Grip Strut vs. Perforated Steel Steps
One of the most important options to consider when purchasing a steel rolling ladder is the type of step surface.
Grip Strut Steps
Grip Strut expanded metal steps provide excellent slip resistance and are a good choice for demanding industrial environments. The open design allows liquids, dirt and debris to pass through the tread rather than collecting on the walking surface. Grip Strut is particularly well suited for applications where employees may encounter wet, oily or slippery conditions.
Perforated Steel Steps
Perforated steel steps, also known as Perf Tread, provide a durable and slip-resistant walking surface for general warehouse and industrial applications. Perf Tread is an economical alternative to Grip Strut while still providing the strength and durability needed for everyday use. The best tread option depends on the environment where the ladder will be used and the level of slip resistance required.
Standard Rolling Ladder Safety Features
Industrial rolling ladders can be configured with several features designed to improve stability and make positioning easier.
Depending on the model, available features can include:
Spring-loaded casters
Saf-T-Lock foot-pedal locking systems
Safety chains
Wider step treads
Larger top platforms
Slip-resistant step surfaces
Different ladder heights and configurations
Spring-loaded casters allow the ladder to roll easily when it is being positioned. When an employee steps onto the ladder, the casters retract so the ladder rests securely on its feet. The Saf-T-Lock system provides another method of securing the ladder. A foot pedal allows the operator to engage the locking mechanism before climbing. Safety chains can also be added to certain configurations to help prevent unauthorized or unintended use when the ladder is stored.
How to Choose the Right Steel Rolling Ladder
The correct rolling ladder depends on more than just the number of steps. Before purchasing a ladder, consider the following:
Working Height
Determine how high employees need to reach and where their feet will be positioned while performing the task.
Platform Size
A larger top platform can provide additional standing space and may be particularly useful when employees need to work at an elevated location rather than simply reach an item.
Step Width
Wider steps can provide additional footing and may be preferable for applications involving frequent use.
Tread Surface
Choose between Grip Strut and perforated steel steps based on the conditions in your facility and the level of slip resistance required.
Locking System
Consider how the ladder will be positioned and secured during use. Spring-loaded casters and Saf-T-Lock systems are two common configurations.
Frequency of Use
A ladder that will be used dozens of times each day should be selected with durability, ease of movement and employee ergonomics in mind. If you are unsure which rolling ladder is right for your application, we can help you compare the available configurations.
Steel Rolling Ladders for Warehouses
Rolling warehouse ladders are commonly used for inventory picking, order fulfillment, shelving access, maintenance and general warehouse operations. They are particularly useful in facilities where employees need to reach products stored above normal standing height but do not need a forklift or other powered equipment for the task.
Because rolling ladders can be moved between storage aisles and work areas, one ladder can often serve multiple locations throughout a facility. For high-use applications, an industrial-grade steel rolling ladder provides the durability needed for demanding warehouse environments.
Steel Industrial Ladders for Manufacturing, Retail & Distribution
Steel rolling ladders are also used in manufacturing plants, distribution centers, retail locations, maintenance departments and other industrial facilities. The appropriate configuration depends on the working environment. For example, facilities with wet or oily conditions may benefit from Grip Strut treads, while general warehouse applications may be well suited to perforated steel steps.
Higher-access applications may require a taller ladder with a larger top platform and an appropriate locking system. We can help you determine which configuration makes sense for your facility and the work employees need to perform.
Steel Rolling Ladder Freight and Shipping
Freight is an important consideration when purchasing a steel rolling ladder. Although some ladders weigh as little as 125 pounds, their overall dimensions can take up considerable space in a freight trailer. Even ladders shipped knocked down, or KD, can have a relatively large freight footprint.
Depending on the size and configuration, rolling ladders may ship at freight classes in the 200 to 400 range. That means freight can represent a significant portion of the total delivered cost, particularly when purchasing a single ladder. We work closely with our 3PL freight partners to obtain competitive shipping rates and reliable delivery throughout the United States.
If you are purchasing multiple rolling ladders or shipping to multiple locations, we can help coordinate the freight and provide a delivered shipping quote.
American-Made Steel Rolling Ladders
All of the steel rolling ladders we sell are proudly manufactured in the United States. We offer a variety of heights, step configurations and safety options to accommodate different warehouse and industrial applications. From a compact 4-step rolling ladder for everyday shelving access to a taller 14-step model for elevated storage, we can help you find a configuration that fits your application.
Frequently Asked Questions About Steel Rolling Ladders
What is a steel rolling ladder?
A steel rolling ladder is an industrial ladder equipped with wheels or casters so it can be moved around a warehouse or facility. Most models include steps, handrails or guardrails and a top platform for accessing elevated storage.
What are steel rolling ladders used for?
Steel rolling ladders are commonly used for accessing warehouse shelving, inventory, elevated storage and equipment. They are also used in manufacturing, distribution and maintenance applications.
What is the difference between a rolling ladder and a step ladder?
A rolling ladder is designed to be moved around a facility and typically includes casters, a larger standing platform and a locking system. A conventional step ladder is generally designed to be carried and repositioned manually.
How many steps should a rolling ladder have?
The appropriate number of steps depends on the height you need to reach and the platform height of the ladder. A 4-step rolling ladder is commonly used for everyday warehouse access, while taller models are available for higher shelving and storage areas.
Are steel rolling ladders safe?
Industrial rolling ladders are designed with features such as slip-resistant treads, stable support structures and locking systems. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and applicable workplace safety requirements when using a rolling ladder.
What is Grip Strut on a rolling ladder?
Grip Strut is an expanded metal tread designed to provide excellent slip resistance. Its open design allows liquids and debris to pass through the tread, making it a good option for wet, oily or demanding industrial environments.
What is Perf Tread?
Perf Tread is a perforated steel walking surface that provides a durable, slip-resistant tread for rolling ladders. It is commonly used in general warehouse and industrial applications.
Are steel rolling ladders made in the USA?
Yes. All of the steel rolling ladders we sell are proudly manufactured in the United States.
Can you ship rolling ladders?
Yes. We ship steel rolling ladders throughout the United States and work with freight partners to obtain competitive shipping rates. Because rolling ladders can have a large freight footprint, we recommend getting a freight quote before ordering.
Need an Industrial Ladder for Your Facility?
Whether you need a 4-step steel rolling ladder for everyday warehouse access or a taller industrial rolling ladder for elevated shelving, Midwest Material Handling can help you find the right configuration.
We can help you select the appropriate ladder height, tread style, platform configuration and safety features for your application.
We recently ran across a handy, simple and inexpensive device for preventing skids from falling off the back of Racks or allowing for the correct placement of the skid on the Racks. The Pallet Stop from Nashville Wire Company.
Originally designed to maintain optimal flue space and prevent skid displacement, these Pallet Stops are the perfect choice for ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations while improving operational safety and performance.
These Pallet Stops are engineered to integrate seamlessly with most racking systems, ensuring reliable performance and long-lasting durability. Designed with safety in mind, they provide a secure barrier for pallets while maintaining critical flue spaces required for fire safety compliance.
KEY FEATURES OF THESE PALLET STOPS…
Unmatched Fire Safety: Ensure precise flue space alignment and compliance with fire safety codes, reducing the risk of accidents caused by pallet displacement.
Reliable Construction: Manufactured with high-grade materials and finished with a durable gray powder coat for long-lasting use in demanding environments.
Ease of Integration: Compatible with most racking systems, these stops stops fit seamlessly without compromising efficiency.
Universal Design: Designed for 2.75” deep beams to fit most applications.
Easy Installation: Includes a sturdy Allen head Tek-screw for secure, simple mounting.
These units include a a built-in 3” offset and extend 5.24” above the Beam. They are in in-stock item and available for same or next day shipment! Like all of the items we sell, we also install!
These Pallet Stops are proudly manufactured in the USA.
Contractors, renovation crews, maintenance teams, and demolition professionals across Ohio often need a safe and efficient way to remove debris from inside buildings. Large dumpsters and standard containers are not practical in hallways, upper floors, elevators, and other tight interior spaces. A trash hopper, commonly referred to as a chip and waste truck, is one of the best solutions for indoor debris removal.
Midwest Material Handling supplies durable trash hoppers in Ohio for construction cleanup, renovation debris, scrap collection, and general facility waste handling. These are part of our broader material handling equipment product line. These units are designed for commercial use and built to handle demanding jobs while remaining easy to maneuver in confined areas.
Trash hoppers are built for tight turns, narrow doorways, and limited access areas where larger equipment cannot operate efficiently. Their manual tip design allows operators to dump contents quickly and safely without requiring forklifts or powered equipment. This makes them a practical choice for contractors, maintenance teams, and facility managers.
Important jobsite considerations often include doorway size, elevator openings, weight limits, turning radius, and the type of material being removed. Many customers use a trash hopper inside the building, then empty it into a larger self-dumping hopper outside for final disposal and disposal efficiency.
These Trucks come in three different styles:
5/8 Cubic Yard – 1,500 lbs. capacity – 68″L x 24.5″W x 40″H
3/4 Cubic Yard – 2,000 lbs. capacity – 68″L x 30.5″W x 40″H
1 Cubic Yard – 2,000 lbs. capacity – 68″L x 36.5″W x 40″H
These Chip & Waste Trucks all include 10″ x 2.5″ welded on rigid casters (load wheels) and 8″ x 2″ mold-on rubber swivel casters. All models are leak-proof and are constructed of 14-gauge steel for durability.
These versatile trucks are also great in housekeeping applications!
Two other related products to improve removal of debris is the Manual Tilt Truck. This Truck is great for manual handling of light weight, in plant refuse such as cardboard, paper, wood, pallets and trash. It is not watertight though. Also, the Lo-Profile Manual Tilt Truck with an overall height to the top of the push handle at 30″, while the bucket measures 24″ from the floor to the top edge.
Like all of our material handling products, these trash hoppers are built for dependable commercial use and long service life. If you need help selecting the right size for your application, Midwest Material Handling can recommend the best option based on your space, debris type, and capacity requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a trash hopper? A trash hopper is a steel rolling container used to collect and manually dump debris, scrap, trash, and waste materials in construction, maintenance, warehouse, and industrial environments.
What is the difference between a trash hopper and a self-dumping hopper? A trash hopper is pushed manually and tipped by hand, making it ideal for indoor use and tight spaces. A self-dumping hopper is moved and dumped with a forklift for larger loads and outdoor disposal areas.
Are trash hoppers good for demolition debris? Yes. Trash hoppers are commonly used for drywall scraps, wood, broken materials, packaging waste, and renovation debris.
Can a trash hopper fit through standard doors? Yes, most (if not all) models are designed to move through standard commercial door openings, but the correct size depends on the unit dimensions and your building access points.
Do you ship trash hoppers in Ohio? Yes. Midwest Material Handling supplies trash hoppers and related material handling equipment throughout Ohio and surrounding areas.
So many customers spend too much time thinking about Pallet Rack Upright height, depth and Beam lengths. They often overlook Pallet Rack Beam capacity. For many, this is not an issue (as what they will be storing is relatively light) but for certain customers in certain industries it is a major factor that needs to be considered when sourcing Pallet Rack Beams.
Just as Pallet Rack Beams come in different lengths, each Beam length also comes in multiple capacities. The Pallet Rack Beam capacity, is generally calculated as a combination of the Beam length and the Beam height. For example, an Interlake 96″ long Teardrop style Beam that is 2.75″ high has roughly a 2,440 lbs. capacity. The same 96″ long Beam length in a 4.0″H face has a 5,370 lbs. capacity. Quite a difference! It is also important to remember that Beam ratings are calculated as an evenly distributed load.
A mistake we often see is a customer who purchases Beams on cost alone with no regard for related capacities. There are a couple of industries that immediately come to mind who have uniquely heavily concentrated loads… roofing, tile and feed & grain industries.
Case Study
We recently had the owner of a large feed & grain business in Lancaster, Ohio contact us about some Pallet Rack for one of their retail operations. We expressed our concern for the capacity of the Beams being purchased (due to weight of skids being stored) but in the end they purchased our least expensive 96″L Beam at 4,100 lbs. capacity per pair. Prior to pick-up, we once again mentioned that we did not think that this Beam would be adequate for the application, but they insisted it would.
A week or so after installation, we received a call (and subsequent photo above) with their concern for the way the Beams were deflecting with two, fully loaded skids on them. Note the excessive deflection (or bowing as it is commonly referred as) in the middle pair of Beams. We asked the customer to perform a simple deflection test.
We asked them to run a string from one side of Upright to the other and measure the “deflection gap” at the very center.
So what is an acceptable level of deflection on a pair of Beams?
It is important to note that some deflection is permissible, but not much. The maximum amount of deflection that is allowed in pallet rack beams is governed by the RMI-Rack Manufacturers Institute as well as ANSI Standards. The RMI deflection limit for a normal pair of Pallet Rack Beams is L/180 or the span divided by 180. A 96” Beam will have a deflection limit of 96/180 = 0.533”.
In more simple terms… Divide the length of the beam (from the inside of the columns) by 180. If the 96″ Beam length is divided by 180 for a result of .533, or about a ½ inch. If the deflection gap is equal to or greater than ½ inch, the beam is considered overloaded and unsafe.
Once they performed this simple test they realized that the Beams that they purchased were considerably under capacity for the loads they were storing.
What was interesting was they went from the lightest Beam we stocked at the time to the heaviest (8,560 lbs. cap. per pair). Unfortunately, we were unable to take back the overloaded Beams they never returned to their original shape.
Many warehouse managers eventually run into the question of Interlake “old style” versus “new style” pallet rack systems, especially when expanding existing storage or replacing damaged components. Interlake has been one of the most widely used warehouse pallet racking systems in North America for decades, but the company made several design changes over the years that created differences in how uprights and beams connect. Those changes can make compatibility confusing when working with older rack installations.
A bit about the original design… The original “OLD STYLE” pin design of standard Teardrop style Beams has remained unchanged for decades. The pins were roundish (if not completely round) in shape and were positioned into the larger opening of the inverted teardrop holes on the Uprights. They were then simply pushed down and locked into the smaller portion of the teardrop hole. This simple design, quick installation and safe operation is what has made Teardrop style Racking so widely popular.
“NEW” Style Beam
INTERLAKE NEW STYLE RACKING
In the late 1990’s, Interlake Mecalux Pallet Rack Systems introduced a new design they termed “NEW STYLE INTERLAKE”. This new design is not considered Teardrop Racking, instead an Interlake proprietary design. What Interlake did was reinvent the locking pins on the Beams to look less rounded and more like an upside down hook. While these hooks might appear to lack the strength of the traditional rounded design, they carry equal strength. These NEW STYLE components were no longer compatible with existing older Teardrop components. As a result, new (“New Style”) Interlake Beams and Uprights would need to be purchased when adding onto existing or replacing.
Now for the confusing part… NEW STYLE Beams were interchangeable with OLD STYLE Teardrop Uprights but OLD STYLE Beams were not interchangeable with NEW STYLE Uprights.
“OLD” Style Shaved Pin Beam
SHAVED PIN BEAM
Fortunately, what Interlake competitors came up with was what is called a “Shaved Pin Beam”. These Beams are compatible with either new or old style Uprights, eliminating all confusion between the two styles. What they did was simply “shave” the rounded connector pin to allow for universal placement into the NEW STYLE Uprights.
This “Interake new style” of Pallet Rack is no longer being manufactured but a substantial amount of it exists today, primarily on the used market.
If you are not sure what type of Pallet Rack Beam you have, we have created a handy PALLET RACK IDENTIFICATION GUIDE. It is designed to help you identify what brand and style of Racking you have. Most historical styles are listed.
Contact the Pallet Rack professionals at Midwest Material Handling, LLC with any questions or for both new and used Racking options!
We were recently contacted by an existing Customer who we had recently sold a Pallet Rack system to and they had a very unique load placement issue. They were sold heavy duty (HD) Pallet Rack with the goal of storing large, heavy sheets of steel plate. The original system included HD Wire Deck Panels, (3,600 lbs. capacity per panel, compared to the standard 2,500 lbs. capacity).
The issue was the “skids” they were getting their steel shipped in on where not standard and were not resting correctly on the shelf. Remember, the goal is to always have the load to be applied to the Beams, when possible!
FORK ENTRY BAR
Though not a common occurrence, fortunately a standard product exists for just this type of unique application. Pallet Rack manufacturers build a Fork Entry Bar (or occasionally referred to as a Fork Clearance Bar). This optional accessory spans from front to back of the Pallet Rack Beams and allows for the forklift operator to safety place the load and remove the forks of the fork truck from the rack. The Fork Entry Bars are TEK screwed into the both front and back beam to secure the load and prevent movement.
These Fork Entry Bars-Fork Clearance Bars are built in many different types, styles and capacities but all serve the same, singular purpose. Additionally, they also have certified load ratings (capacities) to ensure OSHA compliance. These Fork Entry Bars can be used on both Roll-Formed as well as Structural Pallet Racking.
The photo below illustrates the solution our team of experts came up with. These Fork Entry Bars also work great with loading Wire Mesh Baskets or wood or plate goods, where no skid exists.
Incidentally, once we installed these, we ordered some for our own use… they work great storing non-skidded bundles of Pallet Rack Beams (we use straps and metal banding to secure our bundles of Beams)!
For more information and a list of other unique Pallet Rack options… CLICK HERE
Elyria, OH– We recently got a call from a Customer in Elyria, Ohio asking about Pallet Rack Repair and if damaged diagonal and horizontal cross braces on their Pallet Rack Uprights can be replaced? The cross braces on 15 Uprights were badly bent and damaged. They thought they might need to replace all of the Uprights. We explained that they absolutely can be replaced… inexpensively and and with ease!
While they come in a few different designs, the one that we have found to be the easiest to install and works exceptionally well is an Adjustable Bolt-On X Brace Kit. What is nice about these kits is the lengths are fully adjustable through a simple set screw. These units simply bolt onto the Upright column with 2 bolts. They are sold in either “diagonal” or “horizontal” styles and come in a range of different adjustable lengths to accommodate any depth Upright. They are also available in multiple column sizes (with 3″W and 4″W being the most common).
These kits can be installed in a matter of minutes and are generally less than $90 each. We can also get them shipped out in a few days, not weeks or months like the competition.
Like everything we sell, we also install (locally, regionally and Nationwide)! Click here for details.
How Freight Class Is Determined for Pallet Rack and Wire Decking
If you have ever tried to ship pallet rack, you already know it is not straightforward.
Pallet rack systems and wire decking are some of the most difficult items to move through LTL freight. They are long, heavy, and not easy to handle. That combination drives up freight class, increases cost, and creates more opportunity for damage if things are not done correctly.
If you are planning a project and looking at warehouse racking systems, understanding freight class early can save you time, money, and frustration.
Why Pallet Rack Is So Difficult to Ship
Most products fit neatly on a pallet. Pallet rack does not.
Uprights are tall and awkward. Beams are long and heavy. Wire decking is dense but needs to be stacked correctly or it shifts during transit. None of it is ideal for standard LTL handling.
That is where problems start.
Freight gets moved multiple times between terminals. The more it gets handled, the higher the chance something gets bent, scratched, or worse.
The best way to ship pallet rack is usually on a flatbed or stake truck. It can be loaded from the side, secured properly, and handled less. The downside is cost. It is often more expensive, so many shipments still go LTL.
When that happens, understanding freight class becomes critical.
What Actually Determines Freight Class
Freight class is not random. Carriers look at four things every time.
Density
This is the big one. How much weight is packed into the space. Heavy, compact items are easier to ship and usually cost less.
Handling
How easy is it to move. Long beams and tall uprights are not easy. That increases the class.
Stowability
Can it stack cleanly with other freight. If it cannot, it takes up valuable space in the trailer.
Liability
What is the risk. If something is easy to damage or high value, that gets factored in.
Put all four together and you get your freight class. That number directly affects what you pay.
Understanding NMFC Without Overcomplicating It
Every product that ships LTL is assigned an unique NMFC (National Motor Freight Classification) number.
It is just a standardized way for carriers to say, “this is what this item is, and this is how it should be shipped.”
For pallet racking and wire decking, those classifications are already defined. There is no guessing, but there is a right way and a wrong way to ship them.
Freight Class for Pallet Rack Beams and Uprights
Beams and uprights fall under NMFC 164340.
In simple terms, length drives the classification.
Over 8 feet up to 16 feet typically lands at class 125
Over 16 feet up to 24 feet moves to class 200
Anything longer jumps to class 300
The longer it gets, the harder it is to handle. That is why the class increases.
It falls under NMFC 164150 and typically ships at class 70.
It is still heavy, but it stacks well, stays compact, and is easier to manage. That keeps the freight class lower and shipping more affordable.
Where People Get Burned on Freight Costs
This is where experience matters.
A lot of issues come from:
Poor packaging and strapping
Incorrect classification
Not planning shipment size properly
All of that leads to higher costs or damaged material showing up on site.
Freight class is not just a number. It is something you can work with if you understand it upfront.
We Help Customers Get This Right Every Day
Shipping pallet rack is part of the job, not an afterthought.
Midwest Material Handling has been coordinating these shipments for over 30 years. We know what works, what does not, and where problems usually happen.
Sometimes LTL makes sense, sometimes it does not. Occasionally, even a small change in how the material is bundled saves a significant amount on freight.
If you are planning a project, we can help you think through it before it becomes a problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
What freight class is pallet racking? It usually falls between class 125 and class 300 depending on length.
Why is wire decking a lower freight class? It is dense and stackable, which makes it easier to ship.
What is the safest way to ship pallet rack? Flatbed or stake truck is usually the safest option, but LTL is still common depending on the situation.
