Commercial Dunnage Racks: A Buying Guide
Dunnage racks keep bulk food storage off the floor, meeting health code requirements while protecting stored goods from moisture, pests, and contamination. Choosing the right size and material depends on what you’re storing and how much floor clearance your storage area requires.
Why Dunnage Racks Are Required
Most health codes require food storage to be kept a minimum distance off the floor to prevent contamination from moisture, pests, and cleaning activities.
Weight Capacity Planning
Dunnage racks need sufficient weight capacity for the heaviest bulk items typically stored, whether that’s bagged goods, canned cases, or large containers.
- Confirm minimum floor clearance required by local code
- Match weight capacity to heaviest typical stored items
- Choose material based on storage environment humidity
Material Considerations
Plastic dunnage racks resist corrosion in humid environments, while metal racks often offer higher weight capacity — the right choice depends on the storage area’s conditions.
Stackable vs Fixed-Height Designs
Stackable dunnage racks allow flexible storage configurations, while fixed-height designs offer simpler, sturdier setups for consistent storage needs.
Placement in Dry and Cold Storage
Dunnage racks are used in both dry storage and walk-in cooler or freezer environments, with material choice sometimes varying by application.
Dunnage Rack Selection Guide
| Storage Environment | Recommended Material |
|---|---|
| Dry storage | Plastic or metal |
| Walk-in cooler | Plastic, corrosion-resistant |
| Heavy bulk storage | Metal, higher weight capacity |
Frequently Asked Questions
How far off the floor does stored food need to be?
Minimum clearance requirements vary by jurisdiction, so checking local health code is the best way to confirm the exact requirement.
Are plastic or metal dunnage racks better for walk-in coolers?
Plastic is often preferred in humid, cold environments due to its corrosion resistance compared to metal.
How much weight can a typical dunnage rack hold?
Weight capacity varies significantly by model and material, so checking manufacturer specifications against your typical storage load is important.
Can dunnage racks be used outdoors or in loading areas?
Some models are rated for outdoor or semi-exposed use, but it’s worth confirming weather resistance before that application.