Frequently asked questions

We’re here to answer any questions, to help here are 
some FAQs to start.

Need to ask a follow up questions or there is anything not covered, 
please feel free to contact on of the team on 0161 905 2233.

General Palletower FAQs

  • What is shuttle racking used for

    Shuttle racking is used to store large volumes of pallets in deep lanes quickly and safely. It reduces forklift travel and boosts throughput, making it ideal for distribution centres, cold stores and bulk pallet operations.

  • Can shuttle racking operate in cold stores

    Yes. Shuttles perform exceptionally well in chilled or frozen environments where consistent speed and limited forklift movement offer real energy and space savings.

  • How much space can shuttle racking save

    By reducing aisles and using deep lanes, shuttle racking can increase storage density by a significant margin compared to standard adjustable pallet racking.

  • Can shuttle racking manage different pallet types

    Yes, provided the system is designed for the pallet size, weight and load characteristics. Many sites use standard slave pallets to ensure smooth handling when stock varies.

  • Is shuttle racking fully automated

    It is semi automated. Forklifts place pallets at the aisle face, while the shuttle moves pallets internally. This keeps installation costs lower than full ASRS while still delivering major efficiency gains.

  • Can equipment be tailored to specific food or wholesale handling requirements?

    Yes. We offer flexible designs including different load capacities, shelf configurations, mobile bases and specialist accessories. Our team can help you create a solution that fits your workflow, stock profile and available space

  • Can your equipment handle large or irregular automotive items?

    Yes. Our systems can store oversized items such as bumpers, body panels, exhausts and engine components. Cantilever, long span shelving and purpose built stillages provide safe support and easy reach for awkward or heavy parts.

  • Do you supply equipment suitable for workshops and service bays?

    Absolutely. We offer mobile units, workbenches, tool storage, tyre racks and small parts shelving for day to day workshop use. These solutions help keep tools and components organised, accessible and protected in busy service environments.

  • Can your storage solutions support automotive manufacturing or assembly lines?

    Yes. We design systems for high volume production, including flow racking, component stillages, conveyors and pick faces that speed up assembly processes. Our equipment supports consistent supply of parts and reduces handling time.

  • Can mezzanine floors be extended or reconfigured later?

    Yes. Mezzanine floors are modular and can be expanded, relocated or adapted as your operation grows. This makes them a long term, cost effective investment for warehouses needing flexibility and future proof space planning.

  • How long does installation usually take?

    Installation times vary depending on size and complexity, but most warehouse mezzanines can be delivered and installed within a few weeks. With strong project planning and UK based supply, we minimise disruption and keep your operation running smoothly.

  • Does a mezzanine floor require building approval?

    Most warehouse mezzanine installations require building regulation approval, especially where people operate on the structure. We guide you through the full process, ensuring compliance with fire safety, access, load capacity and structural standards.

  • Can I start with semi automated racking and upgrade later

    In many cases yes. For example, pallet shuttle systems and mobile racking can deliver higher density and less travel for forklifts today, with the option to add conveyors, automated guided vehicles or cranes later. The key is to design the racking layout with a clear roadmap so that future automation can be added without major rework.

  • How long does it take to install and commission an automated pallet warehouse

    Lead time depends on building size, complexity, technology choice and integration with existing systems. A typical project will include design, manufacture, installation, software integration, testing and training phases. Early engagement on data, process and automation scope helps keep programmes on track and reduce risk during commissioning.

  • Can automated racking work with mixed pallet types and product ranges

    Yes, but the system must be designed for your pallet formats, weights and load stability. Automated pallet warehouses can handle a wide variety of pallets and load types, provided the racking, load handling devices and software rules are configured correctly from the start. In some cases, buffer zones or standard slave pallets are used to create a uniform handling interface.

  • When does automated pallet racking give a good return on investment

    Automated racking usually pays back best where; Land or building space is expensive, Labour is tight or operates many shifts, You have regular, predictable pallet flows and Service levels and accuracy are critical. In these environments, the combination of extra capacity, reduced labour per pallet and fewer errors can deliver a strong return over the life of the system.

  • What is the difference between automated racking and a standard pallet rack

    Standard pallet racking relies almost entirely on forklifts for storage and retrieval. Automated pallet racking uses machines such as stacker cranes or shuttles, guided by warehouse software, to move pallets in and out of the racking automatically. This brings higher storage density, faster cycle times and better accuracy, at the cost of higher initial investment and more detailed design.

  • Do you provide installation and inspection services?

    All systems are installed by SEMA accredited engineers and supplied with full safety certification. We also offer scheduled inspections, maintenance, and repairs to ensure your racking remains compliant and performing safely.

  • Can the racking be adjusted or expanded later?

    Yes. Palletower systems are fully modular, allowing you to adjust beam levels, add bays, or reconfigure layouts as your storage needs change. Our design team can also plan future expansion to maximise long-term value.

  • What is Standard Warehouse Racking best suited for?

    Standard Warehouse Racking, also known as wide aisle pallet racking, is ideal for operations that require direct access to every pallet. It offers excellent flexibility for mixed product ranges, frequent stock movement, and fast order turnaround.

  • Are these pallets resistant to chemicals and moisture?

    Yes, crafted from high-density polyethene, our pallets offer excellent resistance to chemicals, moisture, and other elements, ensuring a long service life.

  • Is this pallet suitable for outdoor use?

    Absolutely. Our Solid Plastic Box Pallets are built to withstand various environmental conditions, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.

  • What is the load capacity of this solid plastic pallet?

    Our Solid Plastic Box Pallets have a capacity of up to 660 litres, making them ideal for a wide range of products and materials.

  • How long are you able to rent products for?

    Our products can be rented from as little as 2 weeks and kept for as long as you need them. You also have the option to buy the units at any time if it is decided they are permanently needed. As demands change, you can extend your fleet by renting additional units later or even reducing the rental slight.

  • Can roll pallets and cages be customised?

    Yes, we can customise most of our roll pallets and cages. Please just ask a team member in advance—we’ll be happy to help.

  • How fast will you deliver rental products?

    Palletower has the largest rental fleet of roll pallets, stillages and plastic boxes in Europe. Our rental products are always available ex stock and ready for immediate despatch.

  • Where can I rent roll pallets and cages?

    Palletower has a substantial fleet of roll pallets for lease, so we are ready to respond to new customers or the changing needs of existing clients without delay. Give us a call today for a customised quote or to lease pallets for immediate despatch.

  • Do we buy used roll pallets and used stillages?

    Yes – we are constantly looking to expand our used fleet and would be interested in all different kinds of used logistics equipment. Contact one of our reps on 0161 905 2233 to learn more.

  • Why choose used?

    Our used roll cage fleet offers an excellent, cost-effective alternative to buying new, without compromising on quality. We only supply second-hand products that have been thoroughly checked when returned to us. Items will be repaired and refurbished to ensure they meet our high standards.

  • What is the minimum order quantity?

    Whilst we have no minimum order quantity on any of our Ex-work’s products, we do have hauliers that specialise in 1 or 2 units. Other hauliers specialise purely in wholesale quantities, which means we provide you with the quantity needed based on your product needs.

  • Which product is best suited for my industry?

    We have a wide range of products to suit all industries. For more bespoke solutions or recommendations for what’s already being used in your industry, speak to our team or get in touch on our contact page.

  • What is your product returns policy?

    If a product is in an unused/ new condition and in the same condition as when it is delivered, we can accept a return when notified within 7 working days. We can collect them, or they can be delivered to our warehouse.

  • What is the usual turnaround time for delivery?

    Palletower have a range of delivery options. To drastically improve lead time for urgent orders we offer an over-night delivery service. We aim to despatch our large, stocked products within 5-7 working days. Large bespoke orders can be tailored from manufacture to delivery, with lead times being variable to suit your needs.

Cargopak Ltd are now part of Palletower, Europe's largest providers of storage and logistic equipment.