One of the questions we are asked most often is, “What is the most common depth for a pallet rack upright?”
The answer, by a wide margin is 42 inches.
While we regularly stock 24 inch, 36 inch, 42 inch and 48 inch deep and 60 inch deep uprights (in 20 foot heights only), the 42 inch deep upright is by far the most popular. In fact, approximately 80% of the upright frames we sell are 42 inches deep.
Many customers call us looking for 48 inch deep uprights because they assume a four foot deep rack must use a 48 inch deep frame. While 48 inch deep uprights are common and we stock them, they are not the industry standard for most selective pallet racking applications.
How Is Pallet Rack Upright Depth Measured?
One question we hear from customers is how pallet rack upright depth is actually measured. Upright depth is measured from the outside face of the front column to the outside face of the rear column. It is not measured between the columns or from the centerline of each column.
For example, a 42 inch deep upright measures approximately 42 inches from the outside of the front column to the outside of the rear column (front to back). Likewise, a 48 inch deep upright measures approximately 48 inches using the same method.
Why 42 Inch Deep Uprights Are the Industry Standard
The reason is simple. A standard GMA pallet measures approximately 46 inches deep. In most pallet rack systems, the 46 inch dimension rests on the front and rear load beams.
Pallet rack is designed so the pallet transfers its weight directly onto both load beams. Ideally, the pallet should overhang the front beam by about 2 inches and the rear beam by about 2 inches. This allows the load to be supported exactly as the rack was engineered.
A 42 inch deep upright provides almost the perfect fit for a standard 46 inch deep pallet. A common misconception is that a 48 inch deep upright is the correct choice for a standard pallet. In most applications, it is actually too deep. Because there is little or no pallet overhang, the pallet may not bear on both beams as intended by the rack design.
When Should You Use a 48 Inch Deep Upright (or Deeper)?
Although less common, 48 inch deep uprights definitely have their place.
The standard rule of thumb for choosing the correct size upright is to take your skid depth and deduct 4″-6″ from it. The 4″-6″ allows for the skid to “overhang” over the front and back beam. Remember, we always want the load to be applied to both beams!
They are commonly used for:
- Extra deep or oversized pallets, like automotive
- Snow plows and attachments
- Farm implements
- Large equipment and machinery
- Other products that require additional rack depth
A 48 inch deep upright is also a popular choice for hand-loaded shelving applications where employees are storing boxes instead of pallets and want the maximum amount of shelf depth available.
Pallet Rack Upright Depths We Stock
Midwest Material Handling maintains a large inventory of pallet rack uprights in the industry’s most popular depths, including:
- 24 inch deep uprights
- 36 inch deep uprights
- 42 inch deep uprights
- 48 inch deep uprights
- 60 inch deep uprights (currently stocked in 20 foot heights)
Whether you need a single replacement upright or a complete warehouse rack system, we can help you select the proper depth for your application.
Replacing Existing Pallet Rack?
If you’re replacing an existing pallet rack, don’t guess at the upright depth. Measure it. Many customers are surprised to find they have 42 inch deep uprights when they were convinced they were 48 inches.
The easiest way to verify the depth is to measure from the outside face of the front column to the outside face of the rear column. Taking a few moments to measure your existing frame can help ensure you order the correct replacement upright the first time.
Keep in mind that upright depth alone does not identify the manufacturer. Different manufacturers produce 42 inch deep uprights, but the column shape, beam connector design, hole pattern and frame construction can vary considerably. If you’re unsure what you have, send us a few photos and measurements and we’ll be happy to help identify your pallet rack.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
What is the most common pallet rack upright depth?
The most common pallet rack upright depth is 42 inches. Approximately 80% of the upright frames we sell are 42 inches deep because they are ideally suited for standard 46 inch deep pallets.
Why isn’t a 48 inch deep upright the standard?
A standard GMA pallet is approximately 46 inches deep. A 42 inch upright provides about 2 inches of pallet overhang on both the front and rear load beams, allowing the pallet to rest on both beams as intended. A 48 inch deep upright is generally too deep for a standard pallet.
When should I use a 48 inch deep upright?
A 48 inch deep upright is often used for oversized pallets, snow plows, farm implements, machinery and hand-loaded shelving applications where additional shelf depth is beneficial.
What upright depths do you stock?
We stock pallet rack uprights in 24 inch, 36 inch, 42 inch and 48 inch depths. We also stock 60 inch deep uprights in 20 foot heights.
How do I measure the depth of my pallet rack upright?
Measure from the outside face of the front upright column to the outside face of the rear upright column. This measurement determines the nominal depth of the upright frame.
Need Help Choosing the Right Pallet Rack Upright?
Choosing the correct upright depth is one of the most important decisions when purchasing pallet rack. The right frame depth provides proper pallet support, maximizes storage efficiency and ensures your rack system is matched to the products you store. Whether you’re replacing a damaged upright, expanding an existing system or designing a new warehouse, Midwest Material Handling can help.
We stock new and used pallet rack uprights in 24 inch, 36 inch, 42 inch and 48 inch depths, along with 60 inch deep uprights in 20 foot heights. Many sizes are available for immediate pickup or fast shipment throughout Ohio and beyond. Contact Midwest Material Handling today for current inventory, pricing and expert advice. We’ll help you select the right pallet rack upright for your application the first time.
