Choosing the right shelving unit: system, dimensions and load capacity
The shelving unit is the workhorse of every warehouse. Choosing the system, dimensions and load capacity correctly from the outset saves later add-on costs and avoids expensive planning mistakes. This guide takes you to the right META configuration in six steps.
Contents
Starter or add-on bay?
META shelving units are supplied as starter bays (GR) and add-on bays (AR). A starter bay stands on its own and has two complete frames. An add-on bay shares a frame with its neighbour and therefore needs only one additional frame – which lowers the cost per running metre.
Rule of thumb for a rack row: one starter bay plus any number of add-on bays. Only this chaining makes a continuous rack wall economical.
Determining shelf load and bay load
Two values decide the structural design: the shelf load (capacity per shelf) and the bay load (sum of all shelves in a bay). Both depend on shelf type, rack depth and span, and are stated in every article's technical data.
Weigh typical stored goods and include a safety buffer. Plan too tightly and you will have to reinforce shelves or rebuild bays later.
- Light goods (boxes, binders): a shelf load of up to approx. 150 kg is usually sufficient
- Medium-weight stored goods: allow for 150–230 kg per shelf
- Heavy individual items: consider heavy-duty shelves or a wide-span shelving unit
Setting height, width and depth
The rack height depends on the ceiling height and how goods are accessed: up to around 2,000 mm everything can be reached without aids, while taller units require a step or ladder. Common META heights are 2,000, 2,500 and 3,000 mm.
The bay width (span) affects the shelf load: wider bays carry less per shelf. The depth depends on the stored goods – 300, 400, 500 or 600 mm are standard. Deeper is not automatically better, because goods stored at the back are harder to reach.
Finish: galvanized or painted?
Galvanized racks (vzk) are robust, inexpensive and ideal for workshops, warehouses and damper environments. Painted versions in RAL 7035 (light grey) look more refined and consistent in offices, sales areas and archives.
- Galvanized: best value for money, hard-wearing
- RAL 7035 light grey: a clean look for representative areas
Plan accessories from the start
Additional shelves increase the number of compartments later on, dividers organise small parts, and shelf edges and label holders make order picking easier. Ordering what you need up front avoids follow-up deliveries.