Boltless Shelving Glossary of Terms and Definitions

by Andy Walker July 10, 2023

Boltless shelving is a fantastic tool for businesses and warehouses however when purchasing it, you can run into some complicated terms that you may not be familiar with. As such, here are some boltless shelving terms and their definitions.

Uprights: Uprights, also known as posts or vertical frames, are the vertical components of boltless shelving systems that provide the main support structure. These vertical columns typically have evenly spaced slots or holes to accommodate the beams and shelves.
Beams: Beams are horizontal components that connect the uprights and provide support for the shelves. They come in various lengths and are inserted into the slots or holes on the uprights, creating the framework for the shelving system.
Rivets: Rivets are fasteners used in boltless shelving systems to secure the beams to the uprights. They are inserted into the corresponding holes or slots on the uprights and beams, creating a secure and stable connection.
Particleboard Shelves: Particleboard shelves are flat surfaces that rest on the beams and provide the actual storage space for items. They are typically made of wood particleboard, which is durable and capable of supporting significant loads.
Shelf Clips: Shelf clips are small metal or plastic pieces that secure the particleboard shelves to the beams. These clips fit into the keyhole slots on the underside of the particleboard shelves and latch onto the beams, preventing the shelves from shifting or coming loose.
Keyhole Slots: Keyhole slots are the slots found on the underside of particleboard shelves. These slots are shaped like keyholes, with a circular opening at the top and a narrower rectangular opening below. The keyhole slots allow for easy adjustment and repositioning of the shelves along the beams.
Load Capacity: Load capacity refers to the maximum weight that a boltless shelving unit or its individual components can safely support without compromising its structural integrity. It is an important consideration when determining the suitability of a shelving system for storing specific items or materials.
Modular Design: Modular design refers to the ability of boltless shelving systems to be easily customized and reconfigured. The modular nature allows for quick and convenient assembly, disassembly, and adjustment of the shelving components, enabling users to adapt the storage system to their specific needs.
Vertical Space Utilization: Vertical space utilization refers to maximizing the use of the available vertical space in a storage area. Boltless shelving systems are designed to accommodate adjustable shelves at various heights, allowing for efficient utilization of vertical space and optimizing storage capacity.
Assembly: Assembly refers to the process of putting together the components of a boltless shelving system. As compared to traditional bolted shelving, boltless shelving requires minimal tools and has a straightforward assembly process, often involving interlocking the components without the need for nuts, bolts, or complicated procedures.

These definitions should provide a basic understanding of the key terms related to boltless shelving parts. If you'd like to learn how to assemble boltless shelving, click here.