New vs. Used Pallet Shelving: Which is Right for Me?

Pallet storage plays a key role in storage and operational efficiency. The right pallet racks can maximize the available space, improve organization, enhance safety, and increase productivity. As you consider what storage system is right for your business, you may have wondered whether you should opt for new or used pallet shelving.

At BL Pallet Racking, we have extensive experience selling both new and used pallet shelving systems, giving us insight into the pros and cons of each. In this blog post, we’ll help you with this all-important decision by presenting you with the benefits of both types and some key considerations to keep in mind. 

Benefits of Buying New Pallet Shelving

Let’s first focus on the benefits of investing in new pallet shelving, which include:

Customization Options

One of the biggest advantages of new shelving is that it’s tailored to your warehouse layout and product specifications. When you start from scratch with a custom storage system, it’s easier to integrate everything with your existing systems. 

Manufacturer Warranty and Support

New pallet racks typically come with a manufacturer warranty, technical support, and maintenance guides. This provides you with valuable peace of mind that if anything goes wrong, you’ll be taken care of. 

Greater Safety Assurance

When you go with newly manufactured pallet racking, you can trust that it meets current safety standards and regulations. You know that it doesn’t have hidden wear, rust, or structural issues that may create issues later on. 

Long-Term Durability

New pallet shelving is made from the latest materials and engineering specs. From the time you install your pallet racks to the time they can no longer be used, they have a greater lifespan than used systems. 

Benefits of Buying Used Pallet Shelving

Now, let’s discuss the benefits of buying used pallet shelving, which include:

Cost Savings

For many people, the main draw of used pallet shelving is the monetary value. They almost always come with a substantially lower upfront cost, making them ideal for small businesses on a budget, temporary setups, and startups who may not have the funds for a more significant investment.

Faster Availability

Used pallet shelving has already been built, which means you can avoid long lead times associated with some custom systems. Many distributors keep them in stock and ready to ship, so you can get them set up in your warehouse quicker. 

Environmental Advantages

Giving new life to used pallet shelving keeps it out of the landfill, supporting circular economy practices. Because of this, buying used is a much more sustainable, eco-friendly option than buying new.

Key Considerations to Keep in Mind

Now that you know the advantages of each option, let’s go over some things to consider as you navigate this decision. 

The first thing to keep in mind is your budget. How much can you spend up front, and how does that compare to the total cost of ownership? New shelving may have a higher initial cost, but its ROI is potentially better over time. 

Another thing to consider is your timeframe. If you need to get things up and running quickly, used pallet shelving may be more practical. If you have time to wait for custom shelving, new might be better. 

If you’re considering used pallet shelving, it’s essential to thoroughly inspect it before purchase. Look for signs of rust, bent or warped components, or poor welds. Make sure you verify its capacity and certifications, as used systems may not be rated for current product loads or building codes. 

When to Choose Each

So, when should you choose new pallet shelving? It’s ideal when: 

• You need precise specifications.
• You’re outfitting a new or high-traffic warehouse.
• Safety and code compliance are top concerns.

Consider used pallet shelving when:

• You are expanding temporarily or on a tight budget.
• You’ve found a trusted supplier that guarantees inspected, quality equipment.
• You’re storing lightweight or non-critical inventory.

New and Used Pallet Shelving from BL Pallet Racking

Whether you’re looking for new or used pallet shelving, turn to BL Pallet Racking. Our experts will help you find the perfect solution for your business, ensuring your complete satisfaction. We pride ourselves on providing high-quality new and used products to businesses around the country. Browse our products online today or contact us for expert advice.