Single-Sided vs. Double-Sided Cantilever Rack: How to Choose

Use single-sided cantilever rack when the row sits against a wall or fence, and double-sided rack when you can reach both faces from open aisles. Double-sided gives you about twice the storage per column footprint, but both sides are rated per side, and balanced loading matters more.

Both configurations are available in indoor and outdoor versions on NAWL's stock line, so the choice is about your layout, not what is available.

How do the two configurations compare?

When does single-sided make sense?

Choose single-sided when:

1. The row backs onto a wall, a property line, or a fence
2. You only have room for one aisle
3. You want simple, predictable loading
4. You are starting small and plan to extend later

A single-sided run along an exterior wall also makes good use of an otherwise dead edge of a yard. Pair it with a covered overhang if you want weather protection. See planning a covered yard for cantilever rack.

When does double-sided make sense?

Choose double-sided when:

1. You can reach both faces from open aisles
2. You want the most storage on a limited footprint
3. You store a lot of similar long stock, like lumber or pipe
4. You can keep loads reasonably balanced across the two sides

Double-sided rows are a good fit for central areas of a warehouse or a yard, where one row of columns serves two aisles.

How does capacity work on a double-sided column?

NAWL lists stock column ratings per side: 12,980 lbs per side for the 12-foot column and 11,660 lbs per side for the 16-foot column. Confirm how the rating applies when both sides are loaded at once and whether unbalanced loads change anything. Do not load one side of a double-sided column much heavier than the other without checking. The worked example on capacity per side shows how to run the numbers.

What does layout do to your aisle?

Long stock needs room to move. A double-sided row doubles the number of loading aisles you need to maintain, and in a Minnesota yard each aisle also needs to be plowed in winter. See cantilever yard layout, traffic flow and snow removal and sideloader vs. forklift for cantilever yards.

What about bases?

Each column sits on a base. NAWL's bases come in 48-inch and 60-inch sizes, and each base matches the deepest arm. Double-sided columns carry arms in both directions, so the base needs to suit both. Read matching a base to your deepest arm.

Can I start single-sided and add a second side later?

Sometimes. If your column and base are suited to double-sided use, you can add arms to the second side later. If you are not sure you will need it, ask when you request a quote so the base and column you buy support the upgrade.

How do I decide quickly?

Draw your yard or floor with your longest stock as a rectangle. If you can place that rectangle on both sides of a column row with aisle space, double-sided fits. If one side faces a wall, choose single-sided. Then check your forklift or sideloader reach for each aisle.

Frequently asked questions

Is double-sided cheaper? Per storage position, usually yes, because one column serves two faces.

Do both sides need the same arm length? No, but the base must match the deepest arm.

Can I do single-sided outdoors? Yes. Outdoor installs follow the concrete pad and footing guidance for your site. See outdoor cantilever concrete pads and frost depth.

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Planning your cantilever layout?

Send a sketch with your longest stock, aisle widths, and building or yard edges, and we will suggest single- or double-sided runs from stock.

Request a Quote →

Related reading

• Cantilever Racking in Minneapolis
• Shop cantilever rack
• Cantilever Rack Snow Load & Bracing Requirements