Warehouse Rack Solutions Guide

Your trusted guide to compliant, safe, and efficient warehouse rack solutions that meet the highest engineering and permitting standards.

Engineering Requirements

Our engineering standards ensure safe and efficient operations, maintaining structural integrity and compliance for warehouse racks.

  • Building Slab-on-Grade: Thickness & strength (PSI) for load-bearing capacity.
  • Elevation Information: Foundational stability requires accurate elevation data.
  • Load Capacity: Minimum load requirements per beam level for safety.
Certified

Permitting Requirements

Ensure compliance with local codes and safety standards. Requirements vary based on storage type and height.

Storage Under 12' High (Non High-Piled Storage)

  • Address Verification: Permit address must match the exact location.
  • Occupancy Classification: Must align with local building codes.
  • Commodity Details: Detailed description and classification of stored items.
Approved Stamp

Storage Over 12' High (High-Piled Storage)

  • Exact Address: Permit must reflect the exact location.
  • Complete Building Layout: Includes fire department access points.
  • Occupancy Classification: See IBC Classification.
  • Building Height & Area: Height and square footage.
  • Sprinkler Design: Defines sprinkler capabilities and limits.
  • Commodity Classification: As per IFC standards.
  • Storage Method: Defines storage (palletized, bin boxes, etc.).
  • Building Egress: Exits per safety codes.
Permit Pending Stamp

Important: For non-ESFR sprinkler systems, roof smoke and heat removal requirements apply to storage areas over 12,000 sq. ft.

Shelving Requirements

Shelving systems have distinct permitting requirements and classifications based on design and usage.

  • Shelf Storage: Storage on structures up to 30 in. (750 mm) deep with solid shelves, separated by aisles at least 30 in. (750 mm) wide.
  • Back-to-Back Shelf Storage: Shelves up to 30 in. (750 mm) deep can be placed back-to-back, with a total depth not exceeding 60 in. (1.5 m). A vertical barrier (e.g., plywood or sheet metal) must separate them to maintain classification as shelf storage.
  • Key Parameters: Shelves with longitudinal flue spaces or exceeding defined depths may be classified as racks, requiring different permits.
  • IBC Compliance: Shelving over 5'-9" in height requires a building permit. Storage between 5'-9" and 12' high requires specific permits. Anything exceeding 12' qualifies as high-piled storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a slab-on-grade requirement?

This refers to the slab thickness and PSI strength required for the warehouse floor to support rack loads.

Why is occupancy classification important?

Occupancy classification determines safety standards for stored items, per local codes.

How do I know if I need high-piled storage permitting?

Any storage exceeding 12' high qualifies as high-piled, requiring permits and safety reviews.

Do I need a permit for shelving or racking?

International Building Code (IBC) requires permits for shelving or racking exceeding 5'-9" in height. Storage between 5'-9" and 12' high requires building permits, while storage above 12' is classified as high-piled storage and involves additional permits and safety reviews.