What a Cross Beam Does
A front and a back beam make one level. End-plate pins drop into the upright's holes, so levels set in 2" steps. Sold by length (clear span), face height and capacity per pair.
14 to 16 gauge welded tube. Capacity comes from the maker's load chart for that exact beam, not from length and face height alone. See beam types and the style guide.
Types of Cross Beam
Used cross beams in stock: inspected, tagged, connector-checked.
Sizes and Capacities
| Length | Face height | What it usually holds |
|---|---|---|
| 96" | 3" to 4" | Two 48 x 40 pallets, 40" side facing the aisle |
| 96" | 4.5" to 5" | Two heavy pallets, drums, totes |
| 108" | 4" to 5" | Two 48 x 48 pallets or three narrow pallets |
| 120" | 4.5" to 6" | Two oversize loads |
| 144" | 5" to 6.5" | Three 40" pallet faces, long product on decks |
Ratings are per pair, load spread evenly, from the maker's chart. Level spacing changes the upright's rating, not the beam's. Check both at your real elevations.
How to Pick the Right Beam
- Pallet first: two 48 x 40s, 40" side facing the aisle, take 80". A 96" beam leaves 16" for the gaps at each end and between.
- Heaviest pallet times pallets per level.
- Match the connector: teardrop, slotted, keystone or bolt-on. Mixing makers needs an engineer's approval.
- Keep two spare pairs.
Where It Goes Wrong
Bent beams, cracked welds, missing safety clips. We clip every beam we install.
Need Beams?
Stocked sizes ship from stock; other new beams are made to order. See used cross beams.
Common questions
What is the difference between a step beam and a box beam?
A step beam has a ledge so decks and supports sit flush. A box beam is a closed tube and needs clips or support bars for decking.
How much weight can a pallet rack beam hold?
It depends on the maker, gauge, connector and length, not size alone. Use the maker's load chart for that beam, per pair, load spread evenly.
Can I put new beams on used uprights?
Only if the connector matches and an engineer approves the mixed set. A fit alone does not prove the rating.
Why does the beam need a safety clip?
So a forklift cannot lift the beam out from below. ANSI MH16.1 and most insurers require them.
