Frequently asked questions
Buying, sizing, shipping and installing factory-direct racking in the UK.
About SteelAisle
Who we are and how buying direct from our factory works.
Are you a manufacturer?
Yes. SteelAisle is the export brand of our racking factory. We manufacture the racking and shelving we sell and ship it direct to customers in the UK and Ireland.
Where is the factory?
Our factory is in China. Sales are handled by AETHER INT'L ENTERPRISE CO., LIMITED in Hong Kong, in English, by email and WhatsApp.
Who do you sell to?
Warehouse and 3PL operators, manufacturers, retailers and e-commerce businesses, builders merchants, racking installers and distributors.
How do we pay?
Usually a deposit when you approve the drawing and the balance before shipment, by bank transfer. Terms are stated on your quote.
Sizing and design
What we need to design your racking.
What information do you need for a quote?
A floor plan or sketch with dimensions, the clear height, pallet size and maximum weight, forklift type and the number of pallet positions or shelf levels you need.
Which frame depth suits UK pallets?
For a 1,200 x 1,000 mm pallet loaded on the 1,000 side, 1,100 mm deep frames are standard. For the same pallet presented on the 1,200 side, 900 mm frames are used.
How much weight can a beam level take?
Our beam pairs are rated from 1,000 to 3,000 kg per level depending on length and section. The rating is shown on the load tables and must appear on the load notice.
How wide should my aisles be?
It depends on the truck: counterbalance trucks often need around 3.5 to 4 m, reach trucks around 2.8 to 3.1 m, and very narrow aisle trucks around 1.6 to 1.9 m. Check your truck manufacturer's figures.
Shipping and delivery
From our factory to your loading bay.
How long does delivery take?
Typically 8 to 12 weeks from order: 3 to 5 weeks of production plus 5 to 7 weeks of sea freight, then customs and delivery.
Is there a minimum order?
No fixed minimum. Full containers give the lowest cost per bay, and you can mix products in one load.
Who pays import VAT and duty?
On FOB or CIF terms you pay import VAT and any duty through your customs broker. On delivered terms we include clearance where available.
Can we have a sample first?
Yes, sample sections can be sent so you can check the profile and finish. Sample cost and courier are quoted by our sales team.
Installation and safety
What happens once the racking arrives.
Do you install the racking?
We supply the racking and can introduce UK installers. You can also use your own SEIRS-carded installation team.
Who provides load notices?
We provide load tables; your installer fixes load notices to each run of racking.
How often should racking be inspected?
Under EN 15635 and SEMA guidance, by a technically competent person at least every 12 months, with regular in-house visual checks in between.
Do mezzanines need approval?
Yes. Mezzanine floors in the UK need Building Regulations approval and may need fire protection.
Question not answered here?
Email or WhatsApp us with your question and a photo or drawing if you have one.