What Determines the Weight Limits for Van Racking?

For all van racking, both static and dynamic loads affect the weight the racking can safely hold.

Static Load: This refers to the constant weight the racking system needs to support. This is the weight of the tools & equipment you place on the shelves. For instance, if the racking was in your workshop on a fixed floor, without movement, the racking would only ever experience a static load.

Dynamic Load: This refers to the forces acting on the racking system due to movement. This can include:

Sudden acceleration/deacceleration: When you slam on the brakes or accelerate quickly, the cargo inertia creates a force trying to push things forward.

Sharp turns: When taking corners, the cargo experiences a sideways force that can cause it to shift or topple.

Rough roads: Bumps and potholes create up-and-down forces that can jostle the cargo.

Why it matters:

Dynamic forces can be considerably higher than static forces. For instance in a 30mph head on crash up to 20g’s of force can be experienced. i.e. a 1kg load can exert the equivalent of 20Kg sideways force in a crash.

Van racking systems are designed to handle a specific weight limit, but the stated weight limit should be determined by the dynamic load.  How the racking handles the bumps and bangs whilst driving, and how it copes in a crash is what matters.

The Importance Of Crash Testing

Crash testing is performed to ensure the safety of the occupants of the van during an accident. The racking must substantially stay intact and prevent load from flying forward during a crash. Autorack van racking was tested at the Milbrook and the full test report is available here.

Autorack van racking has a safe working load of 15Kg per shelf, and 60Kg in total,  and this takes into account the dynamic loading and crash characteristics.

Of course Autorack  racking can carry a considerably higher static load, but this may not be safe in an accident.

We do see other brands of racking stating higher load ratings, but this will often be a static loading, not a dynamic load.  Timber racking is rarely crash tested.

Ensuring safety:

Always check the weight capacity of your van racking system, considering both the static weight of your cargo and the dynamic forces it will encounter during travel.

Secure your cargo properly using straps or tie-downs to minimize shifting during movement.

Avoid overloading the racking system, even if the static weight seems manageable. The dynamic forces can easily exceed the racking's capacity in such cases.