If you’ve searched “how much does pallet racking cost,” you already know the internet gives you a wide spread with almost no context. So here are the real numbers: **new pallet racking runs $50–$500 per pallet position** depending on the system type. **Used pallet racking runs $20–$300 per pallet position.** That difference is significant — we’re talking about saving 30–70% on a line item that, at scale, can run into six figures.
This guide breaks down pricing by racking type, new versus used, installation costs, and what you can recover if you’re selling or liquidating. The goal is to give you numbers you can actually use to plan a budget or evaluate a quote.
What Is a Pallet Position?
Before pricing anything, it helps to define the unit. A **pallet position** is a single storage slot for one pallet. If a rack bay holds three pallets wide and four levels high, that’s twelve pallet positions. Cost estimates in this guide are expressed per pallet position, which is the standard way the industry prices racking.
For scale: equipping a facility with 1,000 pallet positions costs **$100,000–$400,000 in new racking** and **$30,000–$150,000 in used racking**. That’s the range you’re working with.
Pallet Racking Cost by Type: New vs. Used
Prices below are FOB (freight on board), meaning you’re responsible for shipping from the seller’s location. Wire decking adds $10–$20 per pallet position on used systems.
| Racking Type | New Cost Per Position | Used Cost Per Position | Savings Potential |
| Selective (Roll-Formed) | $50–$200 | $20–$50 | 50–70% |
| Selective (Structural) | $80–$250 | $30–$75 | 40–60% |
| Double-Deep | $80–$300 | $40–$100 | ~50% |
| Drive-In (2–4 Deep) | $115–$500 | $85–$160 | 30–50% |
| Push-Back (2–5 Deep) | $150–$450 | $100–$250 | 40–60% |
| Pallet Flow | $200–$500 | $120–$300 | 40–50% |
A few things stand out here. Selective roll-formed racking offers the highest savings potential when bought used — up to 70% off new pricing. Drive-in systems have the smallest spread, partly because the structural components don’t degrade as much in value and demand stays high.
Pallet flow systems carry the highest absolute cost new or used, but the used market still delivers 40–50% savings. For high-density operations managing FIFO inventory, that’s still a meaningful number.
Used Pallet Racking: What You Actually Save and What to Watch For
The case for used racking is straightforward. **You save 30–60% on material costs.** Delivery typically runs 2–3 weeks rather than the longer lead times common with new orders. At 1,000 positions, that’s potentially $70,000–$250,000 back in your budget.
The condition of used racking determines what you actually get for that money. **Rust-free racking carries approximately 30% more value** than comparable units showing surface corrosion. Before accepting any used system, inspect or request documentation on:
- Beam and upright condition (no visible bends or cracks)
- Column protector status
- Footplate and anchor bolt integrity
- Load capacity labels — they should still be legible and accurate
Selective roll-formed systems are the most commonly available on the used market and the easiest to inspect. Drive-in and push-back systems require more thorough inspection because structural damage from forklift impact is common and not always visible from a distance.
Conesco carries used selective racking starting at competitive per-position pricing, with inventory available for projects of all sizes.
Installation Costs: What to Expect
Material is only part of the budget. **Installation runs $20–$250 per pallet position**, which typically lands at 15–35% of total material cost. At 1,000 positions using mid-range new racking ($250/position material), installation adds $37,500–$87,500 to the project.
Used racking generally installs cheaper. The components are lighter in some configurations, and pre-owned systems often come from facilities where workers are familiar with the setup. Prep work like cleaning and sorting is also reduced when buying from a reputable source.
A few ways to reduce installation costs:
- Bundle material and installation — many suppliers offer package pricing
- Use your own labor — for selective systems, which are the most straightforward to assemble
- Phase the project — if cash flow is a constraint; install sections as inventory grows
Drive-in, push-back, and pallet flow systems require professional installation. The tolerance requirements are tighter, and improper setup creates real safety and operational risk.
Liquidation: What Your Racking Is Worth When You’re Done with It
Racking liquidation is common in facility consolidations, lease exits, and operational shifts. The general rule: **expect to recover 20–50% of original cost** when selling or liquidating a racking system.
The range is wide because condition, brand, and timing all affect value. A rust-free, well-maintained selective system from a recognized manufacturer in a market with active demand can return close to 50%. Older, mixed, or damaged inventory recovers less.
One significant advantage of working with a liquidation service: **you avoid dismantling costs**. Buyers like Conesco typically handle teardown as part of the transaction, offsetting the cost through the payout rather than charging you separately. Dismantling typically runs 10–20% of the racking’s value — so factoring that into your recovery math is important before you decide to sell versus scrap.
For facilities holding 1,000 positions of racking originally purchased for $150,000, that means potential recovery of $30,000–$75,000 — with no dismantling bill.
What Affects Used Racking Value
If you’re buying or selling, three factors drive the number more than anything else:
- Condition. Rust-free, undamaged racking is worth meaningfully more. A 30% premium for clean units versus corroded ones is a real market difference, not a negotiating point.
- Brand. Racking from well-known manufacturers holds value better in the secondary market. Components are more likely to be compatible with other systems, which expands the buyer pool.
- Local demand. Racking is heavy and freight costs are real. If there’s active demand in your region, you recover more. If your facility is remote or the local market is saturated, expect the lower end of the recovery range.
FAQs: Pallet Racking Costs
What does used pallet rack cost?
Used pallet racking costs $20–$300 per pallet position depending on the system type. Selective roll-formed is at the lower end ($20–$50), while pallet flow systems run $120–$300 per position.
What type of pallet racking saves the most money when bought used?
Selective roll-formed racking offers the highest savings potential at 50–70% off new pricing. It’s also the most available type on the secondary market, which keeps prices competitive.
Is used pallet racking safe?
Yes, if properly inspected before installation. Look for straight uprights, undamaged beams, legible load capacity labels, and intact footplates. Avoid units with visible bending, cracks, or significant corrosion.
What does FOB pricing mean for racking?
FOB (freight on board) means the price quoted is at the seller’s location. You pay shipping costs from that point. Always factor freight into your per-position cost comparison between suppliers.
Can I mix new and used pallet racking?
In some cases, yes. Roll-formed selective systems from compatible manufacturers often allow mixing. Structural racking is less forgiving of mixed components. Verify compatibility before ordering.
How much does pallet racking installation cost?
Installation typically runs $20–$250 per pallet position and accounts for 15–35% of total material cost. Used racking often installs at the lower end of that range due to lighter prep requirements.
How long does pallet racking installation take?
Lead times vary by system size and complexity. Used racking is typically available for delivery in 2–3 weeks. Installation timelines depend on crew size and system type.
Do I need wire decking with used pallet racking?
Wire decking is optional but common. It adds $10–$20 per pallet position on used systems and improves safety by preventing pallets and debris from falling through the rack.
What is the liquidation value of pallet racking?
Expect to recover 20–50% of original cost. Condition, brand, and regional demand are the main factors. Working with a liquidation buyer who handles dismantling removes a cost that typically runs 10–20% of the racking’s value.
How much does it cost to equip a facility with 1,000 pallet positions?
New racking for 1,000 positions runs $100,000–$400,000 depending on system type. Used racking for the same number of positions runs $30,000–$150,000. Installation adds 15–35% on top of material costs.
Key Takeaways
- New pallet racking costs $50–$500 per pallet position; used runs $20–$300
- Used selective roll-formed racking offers the best value at 50–70% savings
- A 1,000-position facility can save $70,000–$250,000 by choosing used over new
- Installation adds $20–$250 per position — budget 15–35% on top of material costs
- Rust-free used racking carries a roughly 30% value premium over corroded units
- Liquidation returns 20–50% of original cost; buyers who handle dismantling eliminate a 10–20% expense
- FOB pricing is standard — always include freight in your total cost comparison
Ready to get a quote on used racking or find out what your current system is worth? Contact Conesco for pricing and availability.
Ted Hodges - CEO & Founder
Ted Hodges is the Founder and CEO of Conesco Storage Systems, a company he started in 1986 to provide turnkey warehousing products and services, including the repurposing of quality, used material handling equipment. With over 40 employees across the country, Ted and his team serve customers of all sizes throughout the different stages of the warehousing lifecycle.
