Pallet Racking Types — APR, Drive-In, Push-Back, Cantilever
Different storage systems have different inspection regimes and different failure modes. Here's the plain-English guide to each main type used in UK warehouses.
Adjustable Pallet Racking (APR / Selective)
The most common system in the UK — selective access to every pallet, easy to inspect, well understood failure modes (upright impacts, beam deflection, missing safety pins).
Drive-In / Drive-Through
High-density LIFO storage. Inspections focus on rail damage, upright base impacts, and bracing integrity — drive-in racking is more sensitive to MHE impacts than APR.
Push-Back & Pallet Live
Dynamic systems with rollers or carts. Inspections add wear-component checks (rollers, brakes, retainers) on top of the standard structural audit.
Narrow Aisle (VNA)
Used with man-up trucks and wire guidance. Floor flatness, guide rails and beam-end protectors are critical inspection points.
Cantilever
For long loads — timber, tubing, profiles. Inspected to a separate SEMA cantilever inspection methodology.
Mobile Racking
High-density APR on motorised bases. Adds electrical, photocell and brake inspections to the structural check.
Need a SEMA inspection?
Rackstor UK Ltd carries out SEMA approved, SARI accredited racking inspections nationwide — same-day quotations.