Preparing Your Facility for Pallet Rack Installation
A successful warehouse buildout starts with preparation. Before our crew arrives to install your pallet racking system, here’s a checklist to make sure your facility is ready for a smooth, efficient, and safe installation.
1. Clear and Clean the Floors
- Remove all debris, pallets, and materials from the installation area.
- Sweep, scrub, or power wash floors so they’re free of dust and oil.
- Ensure there are no nails, bolts, or broken concrete pieces that could interfere with layout.
2. Verify Floor and Building Conditions
- Check for cracks, uneven surfaces, or weak concrete spots.
- Confirm slab thickness and PSI rating are sufficient for pallet rack anchors.
- Ensure walls, doors, fire exits, and sprinklers are unobstructed.
3. Access and Utilities
- Provide clear access for delivery trucks and installation crews.
- Verify loading docks and roll-up doors are working properly.
- Ensure adequate lighting and ventilation in the work area.
- Provide electrical access for tools if required.
4. Layout Preparation
- Review the approved CAD/layout drawings before installation day.
- Mark all building obstructions on the layout (columns, drains, vents, etc.).
- Verify aisle widths, forklift turning radius, and safety clearances meet operational needs.
5. Zone Marking (Pre-Paint Stage)
- Use chalk or tape to mark zones for:
- Rack Rows
- Aisles
- Dock Staging Areas
- Pedestrian Walkways
- Safety/Emergency Access
- Marking before painting or striping allows adjustments without extra cost.
6. Safety and Compliance
- Confirm fire code and sprinkler clearances with local regulations.
- Identify emergency exit routes and keep them clear.
- Arrange for any necessary permits or inspections before installation.
7. Coordination and Scheduling
- Designate a site contact or project manager for installation day.
- Confirm delivery date of rack materials matches the installation schedule.
- Notify other contractors (electricians, painters, sprinkler crews) to avoid overlap.
8. Final Pre-Install Walkthrough
- Double-check measurements and chalk lines against the layout plan.
- Remove or relocate any remaining obstacles.
- Secure all forklifts, pallet jacks, and other equipment out of the install zone.
✅ When this checklist is complete, your warehouse is officially “Install Ready.”
This preparation minimizes downtime, prevents costly rework, and ensures a fast, safe installation.
