What Is a Pallet Stage?
A pallet stage is a mezzanine-type rack system, designed as a temporary mezzanine to utilize the often underused space above warehouse areas. Unique for their installation process, these systems do not require anchoring to the building, allowing for quick assembly and disassembly.
Similar structures include stacking racks, stacking shelves, mezzanine-type stacking racks, mezzanine racks, three-dimensional racks, and plain racks. The pallet stage, in particular, employs a simple installation method by using reverse nestainers (reverse nesting racks) as supports and is installed without the need for anchors.
Uses of Pallet Stages
Pallet stages are primarily designed to maximize the use of dead space above warehouses. By creating a double-layered flat surface, they effectively double the workspace and storage capacity.
These stages are advantageous because they do not require bolts for installation. They can be easily set up with a forklift, moved, or modified as needed. When not in use, they can be disassembled and stored compactly. The design also allows for aesthetic enhancement of the space.
Rental services for pallet stages, including installation, are also available from some providers.
Features of Pallet Stages
Pallet stages can be assembled and disassembled more quickly and easily compared to other mezzanine structures, like laminated and mezzanine types, due to their no-weld, no-anchor design. They offer flexibility in expansion or contraction to match inventory needs and are space-efficient when stored.
Recently, mezzanine racks, including pallet stages, have been reclassified from simple “racks” to a category of buildings, especially in the context of earthquake resistance. This shift means that their design and construction may need to adhere to fire safety regulations and earthquake resistance standards. Moreover, additional lighting may be required under these structures to compensate for reduced illumination.
It’s important to note that the upper floors of pallet stages are not designed for occupancy. They cannot be used as office spaces but are intended solely for loading and storing cargo.