You can often save 30% to 60% by buying used pallet racking instead of new, which is a significant saving for those looking to grow or optimise their storage space while working on a budget. The exact savings will depend on factors such as the racking type, brand, condition, matching components and much more.
In this article, we examine how used racking prices compare to investing in new equipment, what affects the final costs and most importantly, how to calculate realistic savings for your warehouse project.
Why Used Pallet Racking Can Save You Money
Used or second-hand pallet racking is often removed from warehouses during layout changes, upgrades, relocations and site closures. Many of these systems still have years of usable life left and are likely still in good condition.
Because the steel has already been produced and the components already exist, used racking systems avoid the manufacturing and material cost built into new racking.
Key reasons used pallet racking is cheaper include:
- No manufacturing or steel costs – The most expensive part of new racking is already paid for.
- Immediate availability – No production lead times, which reduces overheads for suppliers.
- Standard components in circulation – Common beams and frames are easier to source and therefore cost less.
- Large volumes released during warehouse changes – Surplus stock drives down prices when multiple sites consolidate or relocate.
These factors allow suppliers to sell used racking at a lower price while still supplying safe, well-maintained equipment.
Typical Cost Comparisons – Used vs New Pallet Racking
Savings vary, but the ranges below reflect common price differences across the UK market.
| Component | Typical savings when bought used | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Upright frames | 30%–50% | Largest savings when frames are standard sizes |
| Beams | 40%–60% | High availability reduces cost further |
| Decking (mesh or timber) | 20%–40% | Condition affects price significantly |
| Accessories (guards, barriers) | 25%–50% | Often reused but may need replacement |
| Full racking runs | 35%–55% | The more standard the layout, the greater the saving |
It’s important to note that savings are highest when you purchase a complete matching system rather than individual parts.
What Affects the Price of Used Pallet Racking?
Used racking prices vary depending on several practical factors. Understanding these helps you judge whether a quote offers genuine value.
1. Brand and Compatibility
Some brands, such as Dexion, Apex and Link 51, are widely used across UK warehouses. Because these systems are common, suppliers often hold large stocks of matching frames, beams and even accessories. High availability usually leads to lower prices.
Less common brands can cost more because matching components are harder to source, and you may need to buy new parts to complete the layout.
2. Component Condition
Condition has a direct effect on price. Components in excellent condition usually cost more, while items with cosmetic wear are cheaper.
Most resellers grade used racking by inspecting for corrosion, dents, coating damage and general structural integrity. Light wear rarely affects performance, but visible defects often reduce the price and may require replacement parts.
3. Frame and Beam Sizes
Standard sizes, such as 900 mm deep frames and 2700 mm beams, are cheaper because suppliers have more stock and can match components easily.
Non-standard heights, depths or beam lengths may cost more because they are harder to find and may require new or bespoke parts to complete the system.
4. Accessory Requirements
Used racking that includes accessories, such as column guards, decking or load notices, offers better value because you avoid buying these items separately.
If accessories are missing or damaged, purchasing them new increases the overall cost. However, even with new accessories, a used system can still be cheaper than buying a complete new installation.
5. Quantity and Availability
Buying larger quantities often reduces the cost per bay, especially when the supplier holds significant stock of the same configuration.
If you need only a small number of bays, prices may be slightly higher because the supplier must break larger runs or match mixed stock to meet your layout.
How to Estimate Your Savings
The easiest way to understand how much you will save is to compare the cost of a new racking bay with the cost of a used bay of the same size and specification.
This approach gives you a realistic, like-for-like comparison and helps you calculate the overall saving for your full layout, whether you need a single run or a complete warehouse fit-out.
Example comparison
- New pallet racking bay: £280 – £400
- Used pallet racking bay: £150 – £220
- Estimated saving per bay: £100 – £180
For a 20-bay project, this represents a saving of £2,000 – £3,600 on racking alone, when opting for second-hand racking over new.
You might be able to save even more if:
- You purchase directly from a supplier with large used stock
- Your layout uses standard beam lengths and frame sizes
- You take advantage of bulk-buy pricing
Additional Savings Beyond the Purchase Price
Used pallet racking can reduce more than just the initial investment. Several practical benefits help lower the total cost of your project over time.
Installation
Standard used systems are familiar to most installation teams. Components fit together easily, and the layout is predictable, which reduces labour time and installation costs.
Lead times
Used racking is available immediately, with no manufacturing delays. Faster delivery helps prevent project downtime and keeps warehouse operations running on schedule.
Replacement parts
Common brands make it easier to source matching beams, frames or accessories if you need replacements later. Readily available spares are often cheaper and reduce future maintenance costs.
Warehouse flexibility
Buying used racking at a lower price means you can reconfigure your storage layout or add extra bays later without committing to a large new investment. This flexibility is especially useful in growing or fast-changing operations.
When Buying New Might Be the Better Option
Used racking offers strong savings, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t consider buying new racking. In fact, in certain situations, new racking might represent the smarter investment.
In these cases, buying new ensures you get the exact specification and performance your setup requires.
You might need new racking if:
- You require bespoke heights or beam lengths – Custom sizes are unlikely to be available on the used market and are easier to order new.
- Your layout relies on specialised accessories – Items such as carton flow beds, pallet live systems or heavy-duty barriers are not always available used.
- You operate in harsh environments – Cold stores, corrosive areas or outdoor sites may require enhanced coatings or galvanised finishes that are easier to source new.
- You cannot source matching components in the quantities required – Large projects sometimes need full matching runs that are only achievable with new stock.
Conclusion
Buying used pallet racking, on average, will save you 30% to 60% compared to opting for brand new systems. Actual savings will vary depending on a range of factors such as brand, condition, component availability and the scale of your project.
With careful pre-purchase specification checks and a reliable supplier, buying second-hand pallet racking offers a safe and cost-effective way to expand or refit your warehouse while keeping budgets under control. For more information on buying used pallet racking or selling your own used racking, be sure to reach out to our team at Pallet Racking Systems.