Not all cantilever racks are created equal. Selecting the wrong type can lead to system failure, product damage, or workplace injuries. At Herochu, we help clients navigate this critical decision by clarifying the differences between structural and roll-formed designs—and when to choose heavy-duty cantilever racks over lighter alternatives.
Structural vs. Roll-Formed: What’s the Difference?
- Roll-formed cantilever racks are made by bending sheet metal into shape. They’re cost-effective and suitable for light to medium-duty applications (e.g., retail lumber, plastic profiles). Herochu’s Series 1000–3000 fall into this category.
- Structural cantilever racks, like our 5000 Series, are fabricated from hot-rolled I-beams or C-channels. They offer superior strength, impact resistance, and load capacity—making them the only choice for heavy-duty industrial use.
If your loads exceed 1,000 lbs per arm, involve forklift handling, or include dense materials like steel or stone, structural heavy-duty is non-negotiable.
Load Capacity Guidelines
Herochu recommends:
- <1,000 lbs/arm: Light-duty (Series 1000–2000)
- 1,000–3,000 lbs/arm: Medium-duty (Series 3000)
- >3,000 lbs/arm: Heavy-duty structural (Series 5000)
Remember: adding uprights increases total system capacity by distributing load. A 4-tower Double-Sided Cantilever Rack can safely hold 20+ tons of lumber.
Material & Finish Considerations
All Herochu racks use high-strength steel with:
- Powder coating for indoor/outdoor durability
- Anti-rust treatment for humid or coastal environments
- ESD protection for sensitive components
Shelf thickness starts at 0.5mm, but heavy-duty models include reinforced arms and thicker uprights.
Customization: The Herochu Advantage
We don’t sell one-size-fits-all racks. Every Cantilever Rack system is tailored to your:
- Product dimensions
- Weight per linear foot
- Facility layout
- Future scalability needs
Options include electric height adjustment, integrated labeling, and seismic bracing.
Final Recommendation
When in doubt, over-engineer. It’s far safer—and more economical long-term—to install a Heavy-Duty Cantilever Racking system than to retrofit after a collapse. Trust Herochu’s expertise to match your application with the perfect solution.
Explore our full range of pipe racks for sale, lumber racks, and custom cantilever systems today.
