Can I move or modify my industrial shelving?

In a warehouse or storage area, needs often change: new goods, optimisation of space, or a change in logistics flow. So it’s natural to ask: “Can I move or modify my industrial shelving?”

The answer is yes, but with strict precautions. Moving or modifying a rack without following the rules can compromise safety, reduce the rack’s lifespan and render the installation non-compliant with standards. In this article, we explain how to do this safely, and how Mecalux solutions make these adjustments easier.

1. Why relocation or modification may be necessary

There are a number of reasons why a move or change may be necessary:

• Optimise space: reduce corridors or increase storage density.
• Adapting the rack to new loads: changing the type of goods or pallets.
• Reorganise logistics: change the direction of the bays or the FIFO/LIFO flow.
• Repair or replace a component: a damaged upright or crossbar sometimes requires the rack to be partially dismantled.

2. Precautions before moving a rack

✅ Check initial compliance

Before any trip, it is crucial to :

• Refer to the original plan supplied by the manufacturer.
• Identify the maximum load per level and the total load of the rack.
• Check thecondition of the uprights, crosspieces and anchors.

✅ Move with caution

• Empty the rack completely: no weight should remain during dismantling.
• Follow the disassembly instructions: each component is designed for specific assembly/disassembly.
• Avoid modifying components without technical approval: cutting or bending a strut can compromise strength.

3. Modifying the configuration: what can be changed?

Some adjustments can be made without compromising safety, while others require the intervention of an expert:

Possible modifications :

• Move a bay or a complete rack to another location.
• Add or remove levels (shelves) if the rack and load plan allow.
• Change the position of the crosspieces to adjust the height of the levels.

Modifications requiring a technical calculation :

• Changing the width or depth of a bay.
• Add very high or heavy racks without recalculating the load.
• Move the rack to a different floor without checking its flatness and strength.

Mecalux always provides detailed technical guides for the reconfiguration of its racks, guaranteeing safety and compliance.

4. Standards and safety

Moving or modifying a pallet rack must comply with European standards:

• EN 15620: permissible deformation limit.
• EN 15629: assembly guide and modification.
• EN 15635: safety and periodic inspection.

Any dismantling or reconfiguration must be followed by a full inspection before being put back into service. An incorrectly repositioned rack can cause serious accidents.

5. Best practice for moving or modifying a rack

1. Call in a professional: for heavy or very high racks, a specialist team ensures safety and compliance.
2. Respect load plans: never exceed rated capacity after modification.
3. Check the floor: make sure the new position is flat and firm.
4. Re-attach the rack correctly: each upright must be fixed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
5. Train staff: inform operators of configuration changes and new safety instructions.

6. Advantages of Mecalux modular solutions

Mecalux racks are designed to facilitate modifications:

• Modularity: easy-to-adjust levels, rails and uprights.
• Clear technical guides for reconfiguration or extension.
• Certified security: any modification can be made without compromising stability.
• Simplified maintenance: standardised parts available quickly.

Thanks to this modularity, you can upgrade your warehouse over time, without having to invest in a completely new installation.

Conclusion

Yes, you can move or modify your industrial racking, but only if you follow the safety rules and the manufacturer’s instructions. Emptying the rack, checking that the floor is level, respecting the load plans and correctly re-anchoring each upright are essential steps.

Mecalux solutions offer a high degree of modularity and security, making it easy to adapt your racks to your changing logistics needs, while remaining compliant with European standards.