Results
Calculator
Example Data Table
| Scenario | Bays | Levels | Pallets/Level | Load/Pallet | Impact | Safety | Design Load/Bay |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard pallet rack | 2 | 4 | 2 | 800 kg | 10% | 1.10 | 7,744.00 kg |
| Heavier handling allowance | 1 | 3 | 2 | 1,000 kg | 15% | 1.25 | 8,625.00 kg |
| Light shelving | 3 | 5 | 1 | 120 kg | 5% | 1.10 | 762.30 kg |
Examples are illustrative. Use your own rack catalog values for decisions.
Formula Used
Multiplies positions per level by the average load per position.
Adds rack self-weight to stored load in one bay.
Accounts for handling and operational shocks.
Applies impact and safety factors for planning.
Distribution outputs (per upright and per beam end) are simplified planning estimates. Real load paths depend on pallet placement, connections, and configuration.
How to Use This Calculator
- Select your unit system to match drawings and product data.
- Enter bays, levels per bay, and pallets or shelves per level.
- Input the average load per pallet or shelf position.
- Optionally add rack self-weight, then choose an impact allowance.
- Set a safety factor that matches your project approach.
- Provide rated capacity per bay to see utilization percentage.
- Press Calculate to view design loads and download reports.
Professional Guide
1) Why rack load planning matters
Storage racks transfer concentrated vertical forces into baseplates, anchors, and the floor slab. A clear load plan reduces risk of beam overload, upright buckling, and excessive slab bearing. This calculator produces service loads for day‑to‑day use and design loads after applying impact and safety factors.
2) Data inputs that drive results
Total bay load is built from bays, levels per bay, and positions per level. For example, 4 levels with 2 pallets per level equals 8 pallet positions per bay. Multiplying positions by the average pallet weight gives the stored load. Adding rack self‑weight improves realism for heavier frames and accessories.
3) Impact allowance and safety factor
Handling effects can increase demand beyond static pallet weights. The impact factor is calculated as 1 + (Impact% / 100). A 10% impact allowance becomes 1.10. The safety factor then scales the result to a conservative planning value. Together they create a design load appropriate for preliminary checks.
4) Understanding capacity and utilization
If you enter a rated capacity per bay from a rack catalog, the tool reports utilization as a percentage of that rating. Values under 100% indicate the planning load is within the stated bay capacity. Values near 100% should trigger a review of beam level ratings, connector type, and allowable deflection limits. Always document assumptions and verify them during commissioning and audits.
5) Worked example using the sample table
Using the “Standard pallet rack” row: 2 bays, 4 levels, 2 pallets per level, and 800 kg per pallet gives a service load per bay of (2×800×4) + 120 = 6,520 kg. Applying 10% impact and a 1.10 safety factor yields a design load per bay of 6,520 × 1.10 × 1.10 = 7,893.20 kg (minor differences may occur if you choose different self‑weight or rounding).
FAQs
1) What is a “bay” in a rack system?
A bay is the span between two upright frames. It typically includes the beam sets for each level and carries the pallet or shelf loads within that span.
2) Should I enter average or maximum pallet load?
Use the governing load for your case. For design checks, enter the expected maximum pallet weight for that location, not the average of mixed pallets.
3) What does “impact allowance” represent?
It represents handling effects such as forklift placement, minor drops, and operational shock. Higher impact percent increases the calculated design load.
4) Why is rack self‑weight included?
Steel frames, beams, decking, and accessories add load to the slab and anchors. Including self‑weight improves planning for foundations and anchorage.
5) Are loads per upright and beam end exact?
No. They are simplified estimates for early planning. Actual distribution depends on connections, bracing, pallet placement, and manufacturer design assumptions.
6) How do I use utilization percentage?
Enter the rated bay capacity from the rack catalog. Utilization below 100% suggests the bay rating exceeds the planning load, but confirm level‑by‑level ratings.
7) Can I use this for seismic design?
You can estimate gravity loads, but seismic design requires additional checks and detailing. Follow local codes and manufacturer seismic options for final design.
Notes for Construction Planning
- Confirm capacity from manufacturer load charts and installation manuals.
- Verify floor slab capacity, anchors, and baseplate requirements.
- For seismic zones, add bracing and code-specific checks.
- Avoid prohibited concentrated pallet placement on beams.
- Use barriers or guides where forklift impacts are likely.
Accurate loads today prevent costly rack failures tomorrow onsite.