USED VS NEW PALLET RACKING — WHICH SHOULD YOU BUY?
Published 10 March 2026 · 7 min read
Choosing between used and new pallet racking is one of the most important decisions when fitting out a warehouse. Both options have clear advantages — and the right choice depends on your budget, timeline, and specific requirements.
At UM Storage Systems, we supply both new and used pallet racking across the UK. We've helped hundreds of businesses make this decision, and in this guide we share the honest pros and cons of each option.
THE CASE FOR USED PALLET RACKING
Used pallet racking is the most popular choice among cost-conscious warehouse operators in the UK. Here's why:
- 30–50% cheaper than new — significant savings on larger projects
- Immediately available — no manufacturing lead times, often delivered within days
- Proven durability — brands like Dexion and Link 51 are built to last decades
- Environmentally friendly — reusing steel reduces carbon footprint
- Fully inspectable — you can assess quality before purchase
When Used Racking May Not Be Ideal
- You need non-standard dimensions that aren't commonly available second-hand
- Your application requires specific colour coding or branding
- You need a manufacturer's warranty for insurance or compliance purposes
THE CASE FOR NEW PALLET RACKING
New pallet racking is the right choice when precision and customisation matter most:
- Manufactured to your exact specifications — height, depth, beam length, and load capacity
- Full manufacturer's warranty — typically 5–10 years on structural components
- Latest engineering standards — designed to current EN 15512 and SEMA codes
- Consistent finish — uniform powder coating and colour across your entire installation
- Custom accessories — integrated solutions with mesh decking, dividers, and safety barriers
HEAD-TO-HEAD COMPARISON
| Factor | Used Racking | New Racking |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per bay | £80 – £300 | £150 – £600 |
| Lead time | 1–5 days | 2–6 weeks |
| Customisation | Limited to available stock | Fully bespoke |
| Warranty | Structural guarantee | Full manufacturer warranty |
| Lifespan | 15–25+ years remaining | 25–30+ years |
| Sustainability | Excellent — reused steel | Good — recyclable |
| Safety compliance | If properly inspected | Meets latest standards |
OUR RECOMMENDATION
For most UK businesses, used pallet racking offers the best value. The savings are substantial, delivery is faster, and quality used systems from established manufacturers are engineered to last decades.
We recommend new racking when you need bespoke dimensions, specific load engineering, or when your insurance provider requires a manufacturer's warranty. Many of our clients use a mix of both — used racking for general storage and new for specialist or high-load areas.
Whatever you choose, UM Storage Systems supplies, delivers, and professionally installs both options to the same exacting standards.
HOW UM STORAGE SYSTEMS ENSURES USED RACKING QUALITY
- Every component is visually inspected for damage, corrosion, and deformation
- Load capacities are verified against manufacturer specifications
- Damaged or sub-standard components are rejected — we never sell compromised racking
- All systems are cleaned and prepared before delivery
- Professional installation by our experienced fitting teams ensures full compliance
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is used pallet racking safe?
Yes, provided it is sourced from a reputable supplier. At UM Storage Systems, all used racking is inspected to SEMA standards, cleaned, and load-tested before resale. We only sell used racking that meets current safety requirements.
How long does used pallet racking last?
Quality used pallet racking from brands like Dexion, Link 51, and Redirack can last 20–30+ years with proper maintenance and regular inspections. Steel racking is incredibly durable when looked after correctly.
Can you mix new and used racking in the same warehouse?
Yes, this is common. Many businesses use new racking for high-demand areas and used racking elsewhere. UM Storage Systems can design mixed systems that are fully compatible and compliant.
What brands of used racking do you stock?
We regularly stock Dexion Speedlock, Link 51, Redirack, Apex, Planned Storage, and Stow systems. Contact us for current availability.
Do you offer a warranty on used racking?
Yes, all our used pallet racking comes with a structural integrity guarantee. We stand behind every system we supply and install.
NEED HELP DECIDING? WE'LL ADVISE YOU
Our team will assess your requirements and recommend the most cost-effective solution — no hard sell, just honest advice.