Wide-span shelving or pallet racking - which fits your goods?
Wide-span shelving spans long beam widths without a centre support and carries bulky, non-palletised goods directly on chipboard or wire-mesh decks. This guide compares it with pallet racking and explains how to size beam length, shelf load and deck type correctly.
View wide-span shelvingWide-span shelving or pallet racking - what is the difference?
Both systems use uprights and beams, but they target different goods. Pallet racking is built for standardised pallets and forklift handling, while wide-span shelving is made for medium-weight, bulky items moved in and out by hand or trolley.
The biggest difference is the continuous load surface. Because wide-span shelving carries closed decks of chipboard or wire mesh, you need no pallets and no pallet supports. Cartons, profiles, paint tins or spare parts rest directly and safely on each level.
How do I size beam length and shelf load?
Beam length sets the usable shelf width, shelf load the permitted weight per level. The two are linked: the longer a beam spans freely, the more it deflects under load, so the permitted shelf load drops as length increases.
- Shelf load = the total of all items on one level, not the weight of a single piece.
- Bay load = the sum of all shelf loads in one bay; it must not exceed the frame capacity.
- Typical beam lengths: 1500, 1800, 2000 and 2250 mm without a centre support.
- Frame depths from 400 to 800 mm set how deep the goods rest on the deck.
- Always allow 10‑15 % reserve so impact loads during loading stay below the limit.
Chipboard or wire mesh - which deck fits?
The deck type decides load capacity, cleaning and fire safety. Chipboard decks give a closed, level surface for small or unstable goods. Wire-mesh decks of galvanised steel let dust, light and sprinkler water pass through and are often a fire-insurance requirement.
- Chipboard: ideal for cartons, small parts and flat items without tipping risk.
- Wire mesh: mandatory in many sprinkler systems so extinguishing water can pass.
- Steel panel decks as a rugged alternative for wet or oily goods.
- Watch the deck rating: the deck must carry the shelf load, not just the beam.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between shelf load and bay load?
Shelf load is the maximum weight on a single level. Bay load is the sum of all shelf loads in one bay and limits how much a complete rack bay may carry.
When is wide-span shelving better than pallet racking?
Whenever goods are bulky but non-palletised and handled by hand. Up to around 800 kg shelf load, wide-span shelving is usually cheaper and more flexible than pallet racking.
Do I need chipboard or wire-mesh decks?
Chipboard suits small or unstable goods on a closed surface. Wire-mesh decks are often mandatory under sprinklers because extinguishing water must pass, and they are easier to keep clean.
How long can a beam span without a centre support?
Common wide-span beams span up to about 2250 mm freely. The permitted shelf load drops as length grows, so always follow the manufacturer's load notice.
Looking for the right wide-span shelving?
We supply wide-span shelving with the right beam length, verified shelf load and chipboard or wire-mesh decks - matched to your bulky goods.
Verified loads
Shelf and bay loads clearly declared to EN 15635.
For bulky goods
No pallets, resting directly on a closed deck.
Two deck types
Chipboard or wire mesh to suit your needs.
Expert advice
We size beam and shelf load to match.