The Short Answer
Used racking does the same job as new. Sound steel that was not overloaded, hit or rusted can last a long time. Right size, good condition and checked: a sound buy, usually for a good deal less.
New wins for exact sizes, a large matching quantity, a special capacity, or the maker's paperwork for a permit.
When Used Racking Makes Sense
- Standard sizes. 96” beams and common frame depths are always in the used market.
- You need it now. Used rack ships in days. New ships from stock in common sizes; other sizes are made to order.
- Fixed budget. More positions for the same money.
- Adding to used rack. Used parts often match what you have.
When New Racking Makes Sense
- Odd sizes. Hard to find used in quantity.
- Heavy or unusual loads. New rack comes with exact capacity numbers.
- Large, uniform jobs. One color, one make.
- Strict permit or insurance rules. Some reviewers want the maker's load tables. Used rack can be engineered, with an extra step.
What to Check on Used Rack
- UprightsBottom two feet: no bends, kinks, tears or twists. Baseplates flat and welded.
- BeamsStraight. Connectors not cracked or bent. Safety clips included.
- StyleTeardrop fits teardrop, but not every style fits every other.
- CapacityAsk what beam and frame are rated for.
- RustSurface rust is cosmetic. Flaking or pitted steel is not.
- QuantityEnough of the same part to finish your run.
Mixing New and Used
A common plan: used uprights and beams for the bulk, new where the size or load is special. Done properly, it passes inspection.
The Bottom Line
Buy the rack that fits the load, the building and your date.
See what is in the yard or ask for a layout priced both ways.
