If you run a fabrication workshop or metal processing plant, you know the drill — your pipes, bars, and profiles need to be stored somewhere that’s safe, space-efficient, and easy to work with.
For too many shops, that “somewhere” ends up being piles of stock on the floor, leaning against a wall, or scattered across different corners of the building. That might seem fine when you’re in a hurry, but it leads to:
- Lost floor space
- Time wasted digging for the right piece
- Risk of injury (especially when moving heavy bundles)
That’s why more shops are switching to roll out cantilever racks. They keep your long materials organized, save floor space, and make it easier to load and unload safely. But here’s the thing — you have two main options: the manual roll out cantilever rack and the motorized roll out cantilever rack.
If you’re wondering which one makes the most sense for your shop, let’s break it down.
What’s a Manual Roll Out Cantilever Rack?
The manual roll out cantilever rack is the workhorse version. Instead of pulling materials from a static shelf, you crank out the arms so the stock rolls toward you.
Think about it like opening a drawer in your kitchen — except this “drawer” holds 3 tons of steel pipe.
Why workshop owners like it:
- Space Saver: Frees up to 50% of your floor space compared to stacking material on the ground.
- Better Access: Arms extend fully, so you can hook up to a hoist or overhead crane without moving other stock out of the way.
- Adjustable Layout: The drawer arms can be adjusted for different lengths and diameters of stock.
- Ergonomic: Less bending, reaching, and awkward lifting compared to fixed cantilever racks.
If you’re not pulling materials all day long, this is a solid, budget-friendly solution.
What’s a Motorized Roll Out Cantilever Rack?
The motorized roll out cantilever rack is the high-efficiency upgrade. It’s built on the same basic design, but instead of cranking by hand, you press a button and the arm levels glide out on their own.
Why workshop owners go for it:
- No Sweat: No cranking, no pulling — just press and go.
- Heavy Load Champion: Handles 5+ tons per side, per level.
- Speed Boost: Great for shops where materials are accessed constantly throughout the day.
- Safety Built-In: Many models have a locking system so only one level can be rolled out at a time.
This is the option for shops where speed and efficiency are as important as storage space.
How to Decide — Manual or Motorized?
The decision really comes down to two big questions: How often will you use it? and How heavy is your stock?
- Frequency of Use
If you’re only grabbing material a handful of times a day (let’s say 5 times or less), the manual roll out cantilever rack will do the job without slowing you down.
If you’re constantly pulling and loading — especially in busy production runs — the motorized roll out cantilever rack will save hours over a month.
Example:
- Manual: A shop doing custom fabrication jobs might only need to pull a few pieces per shift — manual works fine.
- Motorized: A structural steel fabricator moving dozens of heavy beams every day will benefit from faster retrieval.
- Weight Capacity
Manual racks are built for 2–5 tons per side per level. That’s more than enough for most small to medium bundles of pipes or bars.
Motorized racks start at 5 tons per side per level. and can go much higher, which makes them ideal for bulk storage or extremely heavy profiles.
Manual vs Motorized — Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Manual Roll Out Cantilever Rack | Motorized Roll Out Cantilever Rack |
| How It Works | Crank handle extends arms | Push-button motorized extension |
| Floor Space Saved | Up to 50% | Up to 50% |
| Typical Load Capacity | 2–5 tons/side for each level | 5+ tons/side for each level |
| Best Use | Low-frequency jobs, light-mid duty jobs | High-frequency, heavy-duty jobs |
| Effort Needed | Manual cranking | Minimal effort |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
The Real-World Pros and Cons
Manual Roll Out Cantilever Rack
Pros:
- Lower purchase price
- Simple design, easy to fix if something wears out
- No electricity needed — works anywhere
Cons:
- Takes more time to operate
- Not ideal for high-volume material movement
Motorized Roll Out Cantilever Rack
Pros:
- Faster and easier — no manual effort
- Handles heavier loads
- Keeps production flowing in busy shops
Cons:
- Higher purchase and maintenance costs
- Needs stable electricity supply
Cost Considerations for Shop Owners
When choosing between manual and motorized, it’s smart to think about more than just the upfront price.
Manual Racks:
- Lower purchase cost (sometimes 30–40% less than motorized)
- Less maintenance cost over the years
- Possible productivity trade-off if used often
Motorized Racks:
- Higher purchase cost
- Electricity and possible service costs
- Labor savings can pay it off quickly in busy environments
Maintenance Tips for Both Types
Manual Roll Out Cantilever Rack:
- Keep crank mechanisms clean and lubricated
- Inspect arm rails for wear or debris buildup
- Check load labels regularly
Motorized Roll Out Cantilever Rack:
- Follow manufacturer’s service schedule for motors and controls
- Keep electrical components dry and clean
- Test the safety lock function regularly
Shop Owner Advice — Things to Ask Before You Buy
- What’s my actual daily usage? Don’t buy more than you need — but don’t underestimate either.
- Do I have stable power? If your shop has power interruptions, manual might be better.
- How will it affect workflow? Picture the rack in place — will it shorten material travel time?
- Can I expand later? Some rack systems can be added onto — worth asking if you expect growth.
Bottom Line
If your crew only pulls material now and then, the manual roll out cantilever rack is the smart, no-frills choice. It’s tough, reliable, and saves space without breaking the bank.
If you’re running a busy floor with constant heavy lifting, the motorized roll out cantilever rack will make life easier, speed up production, and protect your crew from unnecessary strain.
Either way, both options are a massive upgrade over digging through piles on the floor.
FAQ
Q: Can I switch from manual to motorized later?
A: Sometimes — it depends on the rack design and the manufacturer’s options.
Q: Do these racks work with cranes or hoists?
A: Yes. Both types are designed for safe overhead lifting.
Q: How much space do I really save?
A: On average, up to 50% compared to ground stacking.
Q: Are motorized racks safe?
A: Yes — most have locks to prevent multiple arms from extending at once.
Q: Which is better for outdoor storage?
A: Manual racks — they’re simpler and less affected by weather or moisture.