What are pallet rack load capacity labels and load plaques?

Load capacity labels and load plaques show a rack system’s safe maximum load, so forklift operators don’t overload a bay. Both communicate approved rack capacities, but they may present different levels of detail and are used differently.

Need to know how much your racks can hold? That’s a different question. See our pallet rack load capacity guide. This page covers how to display and label that capacity once it’s known.

Load plaques — signs posted at one or both ends of a rack system or aisle, for racks with one uniform capacity throughout. They should identify the maximum permissible unit load and/or maximum uniformly distributed load per level, the average unit load when applicable, the total average load per bay, and the maximum total load per bay. Manufacturer information and the project date may also be included for reference.

Load capacity labels — adhesive labels on the first beam at eye level in each bay, for racks whose capacity varies from bay to bay. This variation can occur when beam types, beam elevations or spacing, or upright frame types differ from one bay to another. Each label states the approved capacity for that location.

Here is an example of a load capacity label: 

​​Do you have to display load capacities?

In practice, yes. ANSI MH16.1-2023, the current rack-design standard published by the Rack Manufacturers Institute (RMI) and referenced by the International Building Code, calls for rack systems to show their rated load on one or more plaques displayed on or near the system. It doesn’t mandate a single display method, and while it’s a voluntary consensus standard, OSHA can enforce safe-loading practices under its General Duty Clause.

Does Damotech put a label on every beam level?

No, usually one label per bay is enough when the same approved capacity and loading conditions apply to every beam level in that bay. Multiple labels may be needed when capacities vary between levels—for example, when different beam types are used. In that case, each label should clearly identify the beam level or levels to which the stated capacity applies.

After assessing your racks, our engineers recommend the simplest and clearest way to display the approved capacities. Labels are placed on the eye-level beam or the upright, whichever is easiest for operators to read.

When load capacity labels and plaques must be updated

A load capacity label or plaque reflects how the rack was configured when rated. If the system is later modified in a way that changes capacity — moving beam levels is a common example — the existing capacity information may no longer be valid. New labels and/or plaques are needed after a fresh load capacity study. See how rack modifications affect load capacity.

Don’t know your capacities?

Damotech’s engineers take the necessary on-site measurements, calculate the safe maximum loads for your specific rack configuration, and help you display them correctly.

Request a load capacity calculation →

References: ANSI MH16.1-2023, published by the Rack Manufacturers Institute (RMI).​