Looking for pallet racking for your business? We at RediRack understand that understanding the difference between SD (Standard Duty), HD (Heavy Duty), and SHD (Super Heavy Duty) is essential. These classifications refer to the load-bearing strength and structural durability of racking components—helping you choose the right solution based on your operation’s storage needs, weight capacity, and safety requirements.
Pallet Racking Duty Classifications
Standard Duty Racking
Standard Duty pallet racking is built for general warehouse use, offering reliable storage for everyday goods that do not require reinforced support.
- Dimension:
- 84mm Wide | 65mm Deep
- Variation:
- Designed in 3 Sections – 1.8mm, 2mm, 2.5mm.
Heavy Duty Racking
Heavy Duty racking is engineered to support much heavier pallet loads than standard-duty systems. These systems feature four section variations.
- Dimension:
- 100mm Wide | 65mm Deep
- Variation:
- Designed in 4 Sections – 1.8mm, 2mm, 2.5mm and 3mm
Super Heavy Duty Racking
Super Heavy Duty racking is the strongest racking type available. It is designed to store extremely heavy, industrial-grade materials with maximum safety.
- Dimension:
- 125mm Wide | 65mm Deep
- Variation:
- Designed only in 1 Section due to its purpose – 3mm
One Beam Locking Pin Fits ALL
No more guesswork. Our RediRack beam locking pin are designed to fit all of our models within our range. Whether you are using standard or heavy-duty setups, this one pin does the job.
Standard Duty (SD) Racking
SD racks are ideal for all businesses, retail environments, and storerooms where loads are not excessively heavy. They offer a cost-effective, space-efficient solution for standard palletised products.
Heavy Duty (HD) Racking
HD racking is a reliable choice for manufacturers, logistics hubs, and operations managing high-weight or high-traffic storage environments. It combines durability with performance and is designed for demanding daily use.
Super Heavy Duty (SHD) Racking
SHD racks are best suited to large-scale warehouses, engineering facilities, and industries that handle oversized or ultra-heavy items. If your operation depends on uncompromising strength and safety, SHD is the go-to option.
SD vs HD vs SHD: Quick Comparison
| Feature | SD (Standard Duty) | HD (Heavy Duty) | SHD (Super Heavy Duty) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions (W x D) | 84mm x 65mm | 100mm x 65mm | 125mm x 65mm |
| Build | Bolted or welded – this is dependent on the load. | Bolted or welded – this is dependent on the load. | Always Welded. |
| Ideal For | Light-medium goods | Heavy/large inventory | Industrial-grade heavy loads |
| Common Uses | General warehousing | Manufacturing, logistics | Drive-In Pallet Racking, heavy industry |
Full Members of SEMA
RediRack are full members of SEMA (Storage Equipment Manufacturers Association), with our installation and inspection teams fully SARI (SEMA Approved Rack Inspector), and SEIRS (Storage Equipment Installers Registration Scheme) registered.
Choosing the Right Racking Strength for Your Business
The right pallet racking system depends on the weight of your heaviest pallet, your daily operations, and safety standards.:
- Choose SD if you are storing standard items with moderate weight, such as packaged goods and retail stock.
- Go with HD if your operation deals with bulkier, heavier goods or needs racking that withstands frequent loading and unloading.
- Select SHD if you are handling oversized, industrial, or ultra-heavy items where maximum strength is non-negotiable.
Need Help Choosing the Right Racking System?
Unsure which duty level suits your business best? Whether you are expanding your warehouse or upgrading an existing setup, RediRack can help.
Contact us today for expert advice on pallet racking duty classifications and a free quote tailored to your storage needs.
FAQs - Pallet Racking Duty Classifications
What is the difference between SD and HD pallet racking?
SD is for lighter, everyday goods, while HD supports heavier loads and is built with reinforced materials for durability.
Is SHD racking necessary for my business?
SHD is ideal if you are storing industrial equipment, metal parts, or anything exceeding 20 tonnes. If unsure, we can assess your needs.
What is the difference between a Welded and Bolted Frame
Bolted frames are generally suitable as replacements for most welded systems, however, bolted and welded frames are very different with respect to stiffness so not all systems can accept integration such as mobile and drive-in.
For systems 6000mm and above factors such as the beam pitch, load per level, floor fixing type and type of racking system are taken into consideration to determine whether or not a bolted replacement is suitable.
What should i do if a welded frame brace is damanged?
A bracing repair should not be attempted if:
- The welds are broken or cracked
- The bracing is deformed by more than 30mm
- The upright is damaged
In some situations you might need to use your judgement e.g. if the bracing damage is very close to the weld or is very localised and severe, it might not be possible to repair. If in doubt, please ask.
