Engineer at desk

At Pipp Mobile, we know that storage systems have their own unique needs. Whether you’re managing a high-capacity warehouse, a retail stockroom, or a healthcare facility, it’s normal to have questions about how our mobile systems work, how they integrate with existing shelving, and what storage requirements your space might need.

To help clear up some of the most common questions we hear, we sat down with one of our engineers. Below, you’ll find real answers to the most frequent FAQs that come across our desks.

1. What type of shelving do I have?

This might sound like a simple question, but identifying shelving and storage systems can sometimes be tricky, especially when the system has been in place for years or if you inherited it with a facility.

Pipp works with the majority of shelving types on the market and can help identify yours quickly. To do this, we’ll need clear, in-focus pictures that show:

  • At least one photo of the complete unit
  • At least one close-up of the upright post/assembly
  • At least one close-up of the shelf supports or shelf itself

Blurry or incomplete photos make it difficult to identify storage systems. Providing the right images upfront helps us respond faster and ensures we can recommend the correct solutions. Here are some pictures you can use as a reference for views and angles we are looking for.

2. Can I get replacement parts for my shelving system?

In many cases, yes. If you can provide the shelving type (for example, Tennsco Z-Line), we can often source replacement parts. However, some shelving lines have been discontinued by the manufacturer.

When that happens, we can typically direct you to the right contact or provide recommendations for alternative solutions. Our goal is to keep your system working for you, whether that means supplying parts ourselves or connecting you with the right resource.

3. Can I make my existing stationary shelving mobile?

Absolutely. One of the biggest advantages of working with Pipp is that our carriages can be custom-built to fit nearly any shelving system you already have installed.

Here’s what we’ll need from you:

  • Accurate measurements of your shelving system
  • Basic pictures of the storage units

From there, we can engineer carriages that allow your shelving to move, dramatically increasing your storage efficiency. Our installation teams can also assist with the process to make sure everything transitions smoothly.

4. What is the capacity of a mobile system?

Capacity depends on the type of carriage you choose:

  • Manual Storage Systems

     

    • Maximum capacity: 3,000 lbs per carriage
    • Capacity is limited more by ergonomics than engineering. After all, it needs to be easy for the average person to move.

       

  • Mechanical Assist Carriages

     

    • Capacity: 1,000 lbs per linear foot of carriage
    • Example: A 12’ long mechanical assist carriage can support up to 12,000 lbs total.

No matter what you’re storing, we have a system designed to handle it.

5. How long can the carriages be?

  • Manual Carriages → Maximum length: 12 feet
  • Mechanical Assist Carriages → Maximum length: 32 feet

That said, longer systems can sometimes be approved after an engineering evaluation. So if your project requires more length, it’s always worth asking our team.

Industrial Storage Solutions

6. What if our floors aren’t concrete?

Not every facility has the same flooring, and that’s okay. Pipp systems, both static and mobile, can be installed on a wide variety of surfaces, including:

  • Wooden floors
  • Mezzanine decking
  • Vinyl flooring
  • Upper-level floors
  • Cold storage rooms
  • Ceramic tiles

We’ll just need some additional details about your floors, ideally architectural schematics or construction notes about materials, thickness, and truss locations. With that information, we can make sure your installation is safe and effective.

7. Can we install the storage system ourselves?

Yes, it’s an option. While Pipp has a robust network of professional installation teams across the U.S. and internationally, some customers prefer to install systems themselves to reduce upfront costs.

In those cases, we strongly recommend hiring one of our installers for the first day of installation. That way, your team gets hands-on guidance and support from an expert, ensuring the project starts off smoothly.

It’s also worth noting that Pipp-provided installation services come with a 1-year labor warranty, in addition to our standard parts warranty, an added layer of protection you won’t get with self-installation.

8. What are the floor requirements for mobile storage?

Since our tracks are surface-mounted, the ideal floor conditions are:

  • Flat and level
  • Free of major cracks, seams, or missing chunks

Our specification is: no more than 1/4″ of vertical deviation over 8 feet in any direction.

If your floor has more deviation than that, don’t worry, our installers can shim the tracks to level them. Our teams are experienced in this process, so even imperfect floors aren’t a dealbreaker.

9. Does Pipp help with seismic requirements?

Yes. We’ve successfully installed countless systems in high-seismic areas and are familiar with the added precautions required.

Our team can provide general guidance on navigating seismic requirements. For projects that need stamped engineering documentation, we’re happy to work with a licensed Professional Engineer to complete seismic calculations and provide site-specific drawings.

Final Thoughts

At Pipp Mobile, we understand that investing in a storage solution isn’t just about buying equipment, it’s about ensuring the storage system you choose works seamlessly with your space, your needs, and your long-term goals.

From identifying your shelving type to planning seismic-ready installations, our engineering team is here to answer your questions and guide you every step of the way.

Have a question we didn’t cover here? Our experts are just a message away.

👉 Contact us today to connect with our team and start optimizing your space.

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