Expert Guide to Selecting Wire Decks for Reliable Pallet Racking

Wire Decks are a very popular accessory that functions seamlessly with selective pallet racking. They set snugly over the parallel beams creating a robust mesh-shelving that provides extra load support for pallets. In addition, the safety net design of wire decks prevents product from falling in between the beams. The value of utilizing wire decks along with selective pallet racking cannot be emphasized enough.
Let Cherry’s Industrial help you with finding the right wire decking for your particular facility. Explore our selection online or if you need a more custom size wire deck solution please call us at 877-350-2729 and one of our product specialists will be happy to assist you. If you would like to do some research regarding wire decks prior to making your decision then feel free to review the following question and answers.

What size wire decks do I need to purchase for my selective pallet racks?

First, measure the depth of your pallet racks. Using a tape measure determine the distance from the outer edge of one beam to the outer edge of the parallel beam. That distance is the depth. Next measure the length of the beam not including the attaching portion that sets into the upright. With these dimensions you can figure out what size wire decks to purchase. Here are some examples to provide a frame of reference:

• Scenario 1: Depth: 42” | Length of Beam: 96”

96” divided by 2 = 48”
Subtract 2 inches to allow for space between wire decks.
Recommended Purchase: (2) units of the 42” D X 46” W Wire Decks per 42” x 96” area

• Scenario 2: Depth: 44” | Length of Beam: 108”

108” divided by 2 = 54”
Subtract 2 inches to allow for space between wire decks.
Recommended Purchase: (2) units of the 44” D X 52” W Wire Decks per 44” x 108” area

• Scenario 3: Depth: 48” | Length of Beam: 144”

144” divided by 3 = 48”
Subtract 2 inches to allow for space between wire decks.
Recommended Purchase: (3) units of the 42” D X 46” W Wire Decks per 48” x 144” area

What types of finishes are available for your selection of wire decks?

Our selection of wire decks are Powder Coated Gray, however, we do offer galvanized finished wire decks for those who are looking for that type of finish. Please call 877-350-2729 and speak to one of our product specialists for more details.

What is the difference between galvanized and powder coated finishes?

Wire Decks that are galvanized have a coating that is corrosion resistant.
Galvanized wire decks are popular in areas where there is more moisture in the air.
Wire Decks that are powder coated are both cosmetically appealing as well as smoother to the touch. Unfortunately, galvanized wire decks are not guaranteed to be without burrs which could potentially cut into the skin. For this reason, we recommend wearing gloves when installing wire decks to selective pallet racks.

What is the difference between a flared wire deck and a step wire deck?

Wire decks come with channel supports which reinforce the load capacity of the wire mesh platform.
There are 2 common types of channel supports: the flared design and the step design. Here are some photo representations to illustrate the distinction between the 2 designs:

Flared Step

The flare wire decks are also known as “universal wire decks” since they are compatible with both box beams and step beams. The step wire decks as their name suggests are only compatible with step beams.

Box Beam Step Beam

What are some terms that I should know as it pertains to wire decks?

It is always good to have a little knowledge of the terminology used when it comes to wire decks. Here are some words you should know as you research wire decks:

• Channel Support – refers to the long rods (shaped in various ways) that reinforce the load capacity of the wire decks. We discussed the flared and step support channels earlier. Please review the photos there.
• Waterfall – the arching front and back portion of a wire deck that comes over the beams of the pallet racks.



• Wire Mesh – the rectangular spacing of the wire deck platform.


(Example of 2.5” X 4.0” Mesh)

• Gauge – metal thickness. A gauge of 6 (0.19 inches) is the standard thickness for wire decks.
• R-Mark – professional designation that certifies that the product complies with RMI/ANSI engineering standards (RMI – Rack Manufacturing Institute)
• Inverted Channel – a step channel that has been inverted so that it faces downward instead of upward. The purpose for this type of channel is so that debris does not collect within the channel. See below:

Standard Step Channel
Inverted Step Channel