Choosing a Pipe Storage Rack: Vertical Vs. Cantilever Design

Pipe storage racks (or pipe racks) are structures designed to hold long materials. Storage systems can accomplish this task in a few ways, however, and the right option will help you optimize storage space while protecting materials and improving access. 

To that end, you’ll need to choose between cantilever and vertical designs when outfitting your facility for pipe storage. 

Here’s the quick version of this article: Vertical pipe storage provides better manual access for loading and unloading, while the advantages of cantilever racks make them superior for bulk storage.

To outfit your facility, you’ll need to dig a bit deeper into the key advantages of each design. Here’s everything you need to know (and if you’d rather discuss your facility’s unique requirements with an expert, call 1.800.BHS.9500 to speak with a member of our team). 

Vertical & Cantilever Pipe Storage Racks: Key Differences

First, a few quick definitions. Vertical bar racks store product in a relatively small upright space. Cantilever racking, or horizontal bar racks, use horizontal arms extending from a central column. 

BHS produces both Vertical Material Racks and Cantilever Rack systems with adjustable cantilever arms; both types of pipe racks can be configured to handle virtually any material, from steel bars to PVC pipe, at volume. Both have a standard storage capacity of 3,000 pounds (custom solutions are available for specialty applications). 

Vertical Pipe Racks: Pros and Cons

These pipe racks use vertical columns made of structural steel to hold long loads in an upright position. Advantages of vertical racking systems include: 

• Space Optimization: Upright systems have a small footprint and are ideal for maximizing vertical space, especially in facilities with high ceilings.
• Manual Handling Accessibility: Vertical systems allow for easy identification of different pipe types and sizes. That can make them a better option for certain use cases. For example, if you’re setting up pipe racking for order picking, vertical racks make sense.
• Maneuverability: BHS Vertical Material Racks feature heavy-duty casters, which allow for easy repositioning. 

Even with a high load capacity, vertical bar and pipe racks are limited in their ability to store long goods past a certain size. Extremely long pipes may exceed the system’s capabilities, in which case a cantilever system makes more sense. However, weight is less of a concern.

Cantilever Pipe Racks: Pros and Cons

Cantilever racks feature a more modular design, with horizontal beams and adjustable shelving systems rather than exclusively upright columns, like their vertical counterparts. The primary advantages of cantilever racks include:

• Compatibility with Pallet Rack Systems: Cantilever racks may be moveable with lift trucks (without a load on the rack), and they fit well into existing pallet rack systems. 
• Configurability: While structural cantilever racks have a larger footprint than vertical racks, they’re endlessly configurable and an excellent option for storing a variety of pipes. BHS Cantilever Racks feature five sets of cantilever shelf arms, and you can adjust these arms levels within 2-inch (50-millimeter) increments. 
• Forklift Access: Full racks shouldn’t be moved by lift trucks — but bundles of materials can. Since the rack arms extend 90 degrees outward, acting as a bar cradle, they’re compatible with material handling equipment. 

Cantilever racks require careful load distribution, particularly if you’re storing heavier materials (such as cast iron). Even so, they can be customized to store virtually any materials safely. 

Related: 5 Pipe Storage and Handling Tips for Materials Warehouses

Choosing the Best Racking System for Your Operation

Both vertical and cantilever racking offer viable solutions for pipe storage. Vertical racking excels in space optimization and organization, while cantilever racking provides adjustable arms for versatility and easy access with material handling equipment. They're both superior to floor stacking, and a chemical-resistant powder coating makes them both appropriate for harsh environments.

Chances are, you’ve already got a decent idea of which option works best for your facility — but remember, customization can help you get more from your purchase.  BHS can work with you to alter our base pipe storage rack models or build an entirely new solution that’s optimized for your operation. 

All of our equipment is manufactured at a 148,000-square-foot facility in St. Louis, which enables fast lead times for custom products. To discuss options, call 1.800.BHS.9500 and speak with a member of our team.