If you're running out of rack capacity but don’t want to invest in a complete new racking system, there’s a simple, often overlooked solution: front-to-back beam ties. These modest components can significantly increase the weight your pallet racking can safely hold—if used correctly.

Let me walk you through what they are, how they work, and why they might be your next best warehouse upgrade—but with one important caution you need to keep in mind.

What Are Front-to-Back Beam Ties?

Front-to-back beam ties—sometimes called pallet supports or cross ties—are metal channels that span from the front beam to the back beam of your racking. They sit perpendicular to the beams, creating extra support beneath your pallets.

These ties are designed to:

• Reduce beam deflection (bending or sagging under heavy loads),

• Evenly distribute weight, especially when pallets aren't perfectly aligned,

• Support non-standard or damaged pallets that don’t span the full beam,

• And yes—increase beam capacity in many rack systems.

They're easy to retrofit, relatively inexpensive, and can make a big difference in performance and safety.

Performance Comparison: The 8' Beam Example

Let’s compare the capacity of a common 8-foot (96") beam setup:

Adding just two ties can boost your beam pair’s capacity by as much as 1,500 lbs. That’s a major improvement—but only if your entire rack system is engineered to handle the added load.

Caution: Don’t Overlook the Uprights

Here’s where many warehouse managers go wrong.

While beam ties can increase the capacity of the beams themselves, they do not increase the capacity of your uprights (also known as frames or columns). In fact, by putting more weight on your beams, you're also increasing the stress on your uprights.

If your uprights aren’t rated to handle the added load, you’re risking a structural failure—even if your beams look like they’re holding up fine.

Before adding front-to-back ties to increase beam capacity, always double-check:

• Your upright/frame capacity ratings,

• Your floor anchor integrity.

• Your beam spacing and configuration,

• And your overall rack load distribution.

When in doubt, consult with a rack engineer or your rack supplier (like us at Warehouse Buyers Club) before making any modifications.

Pre-Punched Beams Make It Easy

Modern racking systems often feature pre-punched beams—these come with factory-drilled holes specifically for installing beam ties. This makes installation quicker and cleaner, and ensures the ties are positioned exactly where the manufacturer intended.

If you're investing in new racking, I always recommend opting for pre-punched beams. They give you flexibility for future upgrades and often come with higher certified capacity ratings when used with compatible beam ties.

Key Takeaways

If you're looking to safely increase your pallet racking capacity without replacing your whole system, front-to-back beam ties are a fantastic option. But remember:

• They boost beam strength and stability
• They improve safety for partial or irregular pallets.
  
• They’re easy and affordable to install.

But they do not increase the strength of your uprights. You must confirm your frames can handle the new load.

At Warehouse Buyers Club, we help operators strike the right balance between performance and safety. We can help you source the right beam ties and ensure your rack system is up to the task.

Keep optimizing—and keep safety front and center.

– Jeff Hillen
CEO, Warehouse Buyers Club