An anchor bolt (expansion bolt) is a bolt used to fix the base of rack uprights to a concrete floor. When tightened, its expanding sleeve grips the drilled hole firmly, keeping the racking stable and preventing sway and collapse in the event of forklift impacts or earthquakes. Every pallet racking system must be anchored with expansion bolts according to safety standards – a small detail that determines the safety of the entire warehouse.
Why does every rack need anchor bolts?
- Prevents overturning: keeps the rack feet in place when hit by a forklift or loaded unevenly.
- Reduces vibration and resonance: especially important for high-bay racking and warehouses with constant forklift traffic.
- Meets safety standards: a mandatory requirement when commissioning industrial racking systems.
Selecting and installing anchor bolts correctly
Common anchor bolt sizes for pallet racking are M10, M12with a drilling depth of 70–100 mm depending on the load. The concrete floor must meet a minimum grade and thickness (usually ≥100 mm) for the bolts to hold firmly. Each upright base is usually fixed with 2–4 bolts. Choosing the wrong bolts or anchoring into a weak floor is the leading cause of leaning and collapsing racks.
Frequently asked questions
How many anchor bolts does each rack foot need?
Usually 2–4 bolts per foot depending on the load and rack height. The taller the rack and the heavier the load, the more anchor points are needed.
Can anchor bolts be used on a weak floor?
A weak or thin floor needs strengthening or wider base plates. Long Quyen will survey your floor and recommend a suitable anchoring solution.
Related articles
- Warehouse floor load capacity: technical requirements
- Upright protectors for safe racking
- Periodic inspection of storage racking
Get advice on safe racking installation from Long Quyen
Long Quyen surveys your floor, selects the right bolts and installs to safety standards: 0903.422.179 (Mr. Dat) – 0903.412.296 (Mr. Hien) – 0903.434.374 (Mr. Cam).
