Frequently Asked Questions
ApexBeam is an engineering-led industrial pallet rack supplier based in Nanjing, China, operating since 2007. Below are answers to the most common questions from procurement teams and logistics planners about our 14 racking systems, design standards, materials, ordering process, and installation support.
About ApexBeam
What is ApexBeam and what does your company do?
ApexBeam (Nanjing Apexbeam Storage Equipment Co., Ltd.) is an engineering-led industrial pallet rack supplier headquartered in Nanjing, China, established in 2007. We design, engineer, and supply 14 types of warehouse racking systems — from selective pallet racks to AS/RS and rack-supported buildings — delivered to 19+ countries across the Americas, Middle East, Asia-Pacific, Europe, and North America. Our in-house structural engineering team verifies every project to EN 15512, FEM, or ANSI/MH16.1. Learn more about us.
How long has ApexBeam been in business?
ApexBeam was founded in 2007 and has nearly two decades of experience designing and supplying warehouse racking systems for international markets. Projects range from small spare-parts warehouses to 37 m rack-supported buildings and 35 m high-bay AS/RS installations. Our export track record spans 19+ countries including Mexico, Brazil, India, Australia, Saudi Arabia, and the USA. View our project cases.
Which countries do you export to?
We have delivered racking systems to 19+ countries: Mexico, Peru, Brazil, Guatemala, Ecuador, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Sri Lanka, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, India, Vietnam, Malaysia, Australia, USA, Canada, Poland, and Italy. Each project complies with the applicable regional design code — EN 15512 for Europe, ANSI/MH16.1 for the Americas, or local seismic standards as required. Contact us to discuss your project.
Are you a manufacturer or a trading company?
ApexBeam is an engineering-led supplier with an in-house structural design team. All racking systems are produced at audited partner plants under our QC and traceability protocol. We control the engineering, quality verification, and logistics; production is carried out by vetted facilities that meet our material and process specifications. This model lets us scale capacity flexibly while maintaining full traceability from steel coil to finished component. See our services.
Can you share examples of large-scale projects you have supplied?
Yes. Six published cases illustrate our range: a 37 m rack-supported building for a textile enterprise in India; a 35 m high-bay AS/RS for a tyre manufacturer in Vietnam with over 26,000 pallet positions; a 30 m cold-store AS/RS in Malaysia served by six stacker cranes; a 26.7 m food-industry AS/RS in Canada; a 24 m high-precision AS/RS installation with ±2–5 mm positioning tolerance at full height; and a 13 m multi-level semi-automated shuttle system. Each project was engineered by our in-house team and produced under our QC protocol. View project cases.
Products & System Selection
What types of racking systems does ApexBeam offer?
ApexBeam supplies 14 racking and shelving systems across four categories: standard selective and long-span shelving; high-density deep-lane systems (drive-in, push-back, gravity flow); narrow-aisle and multi-level solutions (VNA, multi-tier shelving, open-floor mezzanine); and automated systems (shuttle rack, radio shuttle 4-way, AS/RS, rack-supported building). Each system is engineered to project-specific loads and dimensions. Browse all products.
What is the maximum load capacity of your pallet racks?
Standard selective pallet racks carry up to 3,000 kg per level (UDL). Drive-in, push-back, gravity flow, and shuttle racks handle 500–1,500 kg per pallet. VNA racks support 1,000–2,000 kg per position. AS/RS racking handles 500–3,000 kg per unit load. Final load ratings are confirmed by engineered calculation for each project based on your pallet weight, dimensions, and seismic conditions. View the full comparison table.
How do I choose the right racking system for my warehouse?
Selection depends on five factors: SKU count (many SKUs favor selective; few SKUs in bulk favor drive-in or shuttle), turnover rate (high throughput favors gravity flow or AS/RS), clear height (above 10 m consider VNA or AS/RS), budget (selective offers the lowest cost per position; automated systems require higher investment), and automation readiness. Our Ultimate Guide to Pallet Racking walks through each system with selection criteria.
What is the difference between selective racks and drive-in racks?
Selective racks give 100% direct access to every pallet from any aisle, ideal for high-SKU operations. Drive-in racks store pallets in continuous lanes 2–10 deep, eliminating most aisles for higher density but using LIFO access (or FIFO with drive-through configuration). Choose selective for diverse inventory requiring immediate access; choose drive-in for bulk storage of fewer product types where density matters more than selectivity. Compare selective vs drive-in.
What is a Rack Supported Building?
A rack-supported building integrates the racking structure with the building envelope — the rack itself carries roof and wall cladding loads, eliminating separate structural columns. ApexBeam has delivered rack-supported buildings up to 37 m high (over 10,000 pallet positions for a textile enterprise in India). Design follows FEM 10.2.03, with wind, snow, and seismic loads calculated per local code. View rack-supported building details.
What is AS/RS racking and when should I consider it?
AS/RS (Automated Storage and Retrieval System) uses computer-controlled stacker cranes to store and retrieve pallets without manual forklift operation. ApexBeam has delivered AS/RS projects up to 24 m high with ±2–5 mm positioning accuracy at full height. It suits large distribution centres, pharmaceutical warehouses, and e-commerce fulfilment operations where throughput speed and cube utilization justify the investment. Explore AS/RS racking.
What is VNA racking and when is it worth the investment?
VNA (Very Narrow Aisle) racking uses 3-way turret trucks operating in aisles of only 1,600–2,000 mm — compared to 3,500–4,500 mm for standard selective racking. This increases storage density significantly while maintaining 100% selectivity. VNA is worth considering when land cost is high, clear height exceeds 10 m (frames up to 15–17 m), and throughput justifies dedicated turret truck investment. Floor flatness tolerances are tighter than standard racking. Compare VNA vs selective.
What is a shuttle rack system and how does it differ from drive-in?
A shuttle rack uses a battery-powered cart that travels inside deep lanes (5–20+ pallets) while forklifts operate only at the lane face. Unlike drive-in racks where trucks enter the lane, shuttle systems separate transport from storage, reducing truck wear and increasing cycle speed (~60–90 m/min shuttle travel). Both FIFO and LIFO are supported per lane. Shuttle racks suit cold stores, high-volume single-SKU lanes, and production buffers. Compare shuttle vs drive-in.
What is a mobile rack and when should I consider it?
Mobile racks mount entire rack blocks on motorized carriages that move along floor rails. Only one aisle exists at a time — when you need access to a specific bay, the carriage shifts to open that aisle. This achieves the highest floor-space efficiency of any pallet system (up to 500–2,000 kg per level, heights to 10–12 m). Mobile racks are ideal for cold and freezer stores where refrigerated volume is expensive, archive storage, and urban warehouses with limited footprint. Safety systems include light barriers, e-stops, and interlocks. View mobile rack details.
Do you offer custom racking configurations?
Yes. Every project receives engineered drawings tailored to your warehouse dimensions, pallet specifications, load requirements, and operational workflow. Custom options include non-standard frame heights and beam lengths, seismic bracing for earthquake-prone sites, low-temperature rated steel for cold stores, and integration with conveyor or WMS systems. Send your floor plan and requirements to get a free layout and quote.
Engineering, Standards & Compliance
What design standards do your racking systems comply with?
ApexBeam designs to EN 15512 (European adjustable pallet racking), EN 15620 (tolerances and clearances), FEM 10.2.02 / 10.2.03 / 10.2.19 / 9.831, and ANSI/MH16.1 (Americas). Seismic design follows EN 16681 and FEM 10.2.08, localized to your project site. Our adjustable pallet racking is independently attested to EN 15512:2020+A1:2022 by UDEM (Cert. M.2023.206.C82720, valid to 13 March 2028). Read our standards guide.
Are your racks seismic-rated?
Yes. We perform localized seismic calculation and dynamic analysis to EN 16681, FEM 10.2.08, or the applicable regional code (including ASCE 7 for the USA and EN 1998 for Europe). Seismic design includes additional bracing, upgraded connections, and verified base-plate anchorage. We have supplied projects in seismic zones across the Americas and Asia. Read our seismic design guide.
What is beam deflection limit and why does it matter?
ApexBeam holds beam deflection to the L/300 serviceability limit under full rated load — meaning a 3,000 mm beam deflects no more than 10 mm at maximum UDL. Tighter tolerances are applied for AS/RS projects (±2–5 mm positioning at full height). Controlling deflection ensures safe pallet placement, prevents progressive sagging, and maintains rack geometry over years of loading cycles. See our load capacity calculator.
Do your products carry CE marking?
No — and this is worth understanding. Adjustable pallet racking does not fall under the EU Construction Products Regulation, so CE marking does not apply to it; suppliers who advertise "CE certified racking" are using the term loosely. What we hold instead is stronger evidence for your application: our adjustable pallet racking is independently attested to EN 15512:2020+A1:2022 by UDEM (Cert. M.2023.206.C82720, valid to 13 March 2028), covering structural design, material specifications and dimensional tolerances. For projects outside Europe we design to ANSI/MH16.1 or the applicable regional code. Learn about our compliance framework.
What does the UDEM attestation cover?
The UDEM attestation (Cert. M.2023.206.C82720, valid to 13 March 2028) is a product-specific conformity assessment issued by an independent notified body. It confirms that ApexBeam adjustable pallet racking meets EN 15512:2020+A1:2022 requirements for structural design, material specifications and dimensional tolerances. Note the distinction: a product conformity attestation verifies the physical racking against the European structural standard, which is what governs load capacity and safety. Management system certifications verify a company's internal processes instead — a different type of document serving a different purpose. Read our standards guide.
Quality & Materials
What steel grades do you use for racking components?
Standard grades are Q235B, Q235D, Q355B and Q355D, with Q460C available for high-load applications. Every steel coil carries a mill test certificate traceable to its production batch, confirming chemical composition and mechanical properties. Steel is sourced from established mills including Baosteel and Rizhao Steel. Material certificates ship with every order for your records. Contact us for material documentation.
How do you ensure product quality?
Quality is controlled at every stage: raw material verification via mill test certificates per coil batch; in-process checks during roll-forming, welding, and coating; dimensional accuracy and coating thickness verification before shipment; and full component traceability back to the steel coil. All production takes place at audited partner plants under our QC and traceability protocol. Third-party inspection can be arranged upon request. See our services page.
What surface finishes are available?
Standard finish is powder coating in your chosen RAL colour. Pre-galvanization and hot-dip galvanization are available for corrosive environments or outdoor installations. For cold storage applications, we specify coatings rated for sub-zero temperatures and condensation resistance. Finish specifications are confirmed during the engineering phase based on your operating environment. Request a quote with finish options.
What safety accessories come with your racking systems?
Standard safety components include: safety locks (prevent accidental beam dislodgement), row spacers and back-to-back connectors (stabilize rack rows), upright protectors and column guards (forklift impact protection), aisle-end guards, load-stop bars (prevent pallet slide-off), and floor anchor bolts. Load-notice signage showing rated capacities ships with every installation. Additional safety items are specified during the engineering phase based on your equipment and layout. View our product range.
How do you handle material specifications for cold storage projects?
Cold storage environments (down to –30 °C) require steel grades with verified low-temperature toughness to prevent brittle fracture. We specify Q235D or Q355D (with D-grade impact testing at –20 °C) as standard for freezer applications, and can source higher-grade material for extreme conditions. Coatings are selected for condensation resistance and sub-zero adhesion. All material certificates confirm Charpy V-notch impact values at the specified test temperature. Explore cold storage racking.
Ordering, Lead Time & Logistics
How can I get a quote for a racking project?
Send the following to sales@njapexbeam.com or via our contact form: warehouse floor plan or dimensions (length × width × clear height), pallet size and weight per pallet, desired number of pallet positions, SKU count and turnover rules, forklift type, and any special requirements (cold storage, seismic zone, automation level). We typically respond within 24 hours with a preliminary layout drawing and quotation.
What is the typical lead time for a racking order?
Standard products typically ship 20–30 days after order confirmation. Complex systems such as shuttle racks or AS/RS may require longer depending on engineering scope and component sourcing. Expedited scheduling is available for urgent projects — confirm current production slots when you request a quote. Container loading plans are optimized to minimize freight cost per pallet position. Contact us for current lead times.
What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ)?
We accept orders starting from one full container load (FCL). For standard selective rack specifications, we also support LCL (Less than Container Load) shipments. Contact us with your requirements for a tailored quote — we work with projects of varying scale and can advise on the most cost-effective shipping arrangement for your order volume. Get a quote.
How is racking shipped and loaded into containers?
Racking components are packed flat in bundles optimized for container loading. We provide detailed container loading plans that maximize space utilization and reduce freight cost per pallet position. Each shipment includes assembly drawings, installation manuals, load notices, and hardware kits. For large projects, multiple containers are sequenced to match your installation schedule. Discuss logistics with our team.
What trade terms and payment methods do you accept?
ApexBeam typically quotes on FOB Nanjing or CIF destination port basis; other Incoterms (EXW, DAP) are available on request. Payment terms are confirmed during the quotation phase and vary by order size and customer relationship. We work with international buyers across 19+ countries and adapt documentation to meet your import requirements, including certificates of origin, packing lists, and commercial invoices formatted for customs clearance. Contact us to discuss terms.
Installation & After-Sales
Do you provide installation services?
Yes. Every order includes detailed assembly drawings and step-by-step installation manuals. We also offer on-site installation supervision, where our technicians visit your site to oversee assembly — this is the most commonly adopted option and is cost-effective. For large-scale projects, complete installation teams can be arranged. Installation quality directly affects safety and load capacity, so we recommend professional supervision for all but the simplest layouts. Learn about our services.
What warranty do you provide?
ApexBeam provides a standard warranty covering manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship. The warranty period varies by product type and configuration. Steel components carry mill test certificate traceability for the life of the installation. Contact our sales team for specific warranty terms applicable to your project and operating conditions. Contact us for warranty details.
Can racking systems be reconfigured or expanded later?
Yes. Selective and VNA rack beams reposition on the upright pitch without dismantling the frame, so level heights adapt as your SKU mix changes. Additional bays can be added to existing runs using matching upright profiles and beam connectors. Keep load notices updated whenever you reconfigure — we supply revised notices with any layout change. For major expansions, our engineering team can verify the modified configuration. Request a reconfiguration assessment.
What happens if I need spare parts or repairs?
Replacement components (beams, upright sections, braces, connectors, safety accessories) are available for all ApexBeam-supplied systems. Provide your original order reference or project name and we identify the exact parts from our engineering records. Because all components are traceable to their production batch, replacements match the original specifications. Third-party inspection of repaired sections can be arranged. Contact our after-sales team.
Still have questions? Email sales@njapexbeam.com or call +86 185 1251 6598. We respond within 24 hours.
Request an Engineered Layout & Quote
Send your floor plan, pallet dimensions and weights, clear height and SKU profile. Our structural team returns a free layout drawing with a load calculation within 24 hours.