Archive Storage Racks
Archive Storage Rack Systems
Purpose-built storage for boxed records and files. Catwalk and order picker configurations maximize density while keeping every box accessible.
2× Capacity
Double the records in the same footprint
Rail-Guided
Push-button aisle access
Fire Code Ready
Compliant with NFPA/IFC requirements
Archive storage racking refers to high-density shelving and racking systems designed for organized, accessible storage of boxed records, files, and documents. Common configurations include catwalk shelving systems and order-picker accessible racks, often installed in compliance with fire code requirements for high-pile storage.
The Right Application
When Your Record Room Has Run Out of Room
Regulatory Record Retention Requirements
Medical, pharmaceutical, legal, and financial operations face mandatory record retention timelines. A record room that's full stops accepting . Without a plan, retention compliance becomes a real problem.
Space-Constrained Record Rooms
Standard fixed shelving uses 40–50% of a record room's floor area for aisles. Mobile shelving systems on carriages consolidate that wasted space , significantly more records in the same room.
Active File Access and Audit Retrieval
In regulated industries, auditors request records on short notice. A well-organized, labeled archive storage system means retrieval in minutes, not hours of searching through overcrowded fixed shelving.
Technical Specifications
Key Specs & Configuration
| Box Capacity | Configured to standard records box dimensions (1.2 cubic foot boxes typical) |
| Configuration | Catwalk system with elevated walkways for hand-picking, or order picker configuration for lift equipment |
| Heights | Catwalk systems up to 30'+ with multiple pick levels |
| Access | Every box accessible by reference number, no blocked positions |
| Best For | Records management, legal archives, healthcare records, government document storage |
| Structural Load | Engineered for uniform box loads with catwalk live loads of 100+ PSF |
| Commodity Classification | Paper = high-hazard Group A, specific sprinkler densities and water supply calcs required |
| Code Notes | Multi-level catwalk requires fire code review, egress compliance, structural engineering, and sprinkler engineering for high-hazard commodity |
How It Works
Navigating the Unique Permitting Challenges of Archive Storage
Archive racking involves unique : paper is classified as a high-hazard Group A commodity, requiring specific sprinkler densities and water supply calculations that exceed standard warehouse requirements. Catwalk structures trigger egress and structural requirements similar to mezzanines.
Archive storage covers a : file boxes, binder storage, small parts, medical records, evidence rooms, and library collections each have different shelf depth, height, and retrieval frequency requirements. We configure systems around your specific record type and access pattern.
We navigate these requirements and design systems optimized for , maximizing box capacity while meeting fire code requirements for paper storage.
What You Get
Built In, Not Bolted On
Adjustable Shelf Configurations
Shelf heights and depths configured for your : binders, boxes, files, or specialized formats. Adjustable standards allow reconfiguration as record types change.
Mobile Carriage Systems
Powered or manual carriages on floor rails open a single working aisle , all other space is storage. 50–100% more records in the same footprint.
Labeled and Documented
Position labeling, range markers, and layout documentation that supports fast retrieval and accurate filing, a complete system, not just shelving.
Installation Detail
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Best Suited For
Common Applications and Industries
Medical & Pharma
Regulatory record retention in space-constrained facilities with audit retrieval requirements.
Commercial Real Estate
Tenant records, building documentation, and permit file management.
Warehouse Distribution
Operational records, BOLs, and compliance documentation in organized, accessible storage.
Archive & Records Storage
Purpose-built records management facilities with fire code compliance for Group A paper commodities.
Related Services
We Handle Design, Installation & Permitting
We love working with Hammerhead, Ivan does an excellent job at getting the work done and making sure things go smoothly.
Renee McDonough
Google Review
Other Systems to Consider
Related Storage Systems
Selective Pallet Racks
Larger-format storage for product and materials alongside archive record systems.
Learn More →
Mezzanines
Elevated record room space that doesn't consume warehouse or office floor area.
Learn More →
Mobile Pallet Racking
The same carriage-on-rail density principle applied to pallet storage.
Learn More →FAQ
Common Questions
Why does fire code matter so much for archive storage?
Paper is classified as a high-hazard Group A commodity under fire code, which means archive facilities require higher sprinkler density and greater water supply than standard warehouse storage. Many archive operators discover this during inspection after installation. We design fire code requirements into the project from the start, coordinating with your fire marshal before a single shelf goes in.
What's the difference between a catwalk system and an order picker configuration?
Catwalk systems use permanent elevated walkways at multiple levels, allowing workers to hand-pick boxes by walking the catwalks. Order picker configurations use lift equipment (electric order pickers) that travel the aisles and elevate the operator to the required level. Catwalk systems typically go higher and handle more positions; order picker systems require less structural engineering but need equipment clearances and appropriate equipment for the height.
Can archive racking systems be relocated?
The shelving and structural components can be disassembled and relocated. In-rack sprinkler systems generally cannot be relocated without significant replumbing. Catwalk systems require disassembly and re-installation engineering, plus re-permitting in the new location. We design for potential future relocation when clients anticipate a facility change.
Building or Expanding a Records Storage Facility?
We design archive systems that maximize box capacity while meeting fire code requirements for paper storage. Free site assessment, no obligation.
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