In a modernized warehousing and logistics system, industrial shelving serves as the core carrier for storing goods, and its stability directly impacts both warehouse operational efficiency and the safety of stored items. Yet, many people tend to overlook a crucial prerequisite—high-quality ground infrastructure. Just as towering skyscrapers rely on solid foundations, the long-term reliability of heavy-duty shelving systems equally depends on scientifically sound ground load-bearing designs and precise control over surface flatness. This article will explore, from real-world application perspectives, the key ground requirements for industrial shelving as well as essential implementation guidelines.

1. Why is ground quality important? — Load-bearing capacity determines system lifespan
Each set of high-level cantilever racks can store several tons—or even dozens of tons—of materials. If the ground isn’t capable of effectively distributing the pressure, it can easily lead to localized sinking, cracking, and other issues. Such hidden risks may trigger the following chain reactions:
✅ Shelf tilting and deformation: Uneven stress on the uprights causes the shelves to shift out of alignment, compromising forklift access accuracy.
✅ Increased safety risks: In earthquake or vibration-prone environments, shelves in vulnerable areas are prone to collapse.
✅ Repair costs double: Repeatedly adjusting shelf levels not only consumes time and effort but may also damage pallets and goods.

Therefore, from the project planning stage onward, the ground should be regarded as the "foundation" of the entire warehousing system, rather than merely a hardened floor surface.

II. Core Elements of Load-Bearing Foundation Treatment
1️⃣ Geological survey takes precedence
Before construction begins, it is essential to inspect the underground soil type (such as clay, gravel, or fill material) and the groundwater level using specialized equipment. Based on the varying geological conditions, tailored solutions should be developed:
➤ In areas with loose soil, pile foundations should be used for reinforcement, or the soil should be replaced with graded sand and gravel.
➤ Waterproof layers should be added in damp areas to prevent moisture from compromising the foundation's strength.

2️⃣ Concrete Mix Proportioning and Pouring Techniques
▶︎ Strength Grade: C30 or higher grade concrete is recommended (for special heavy-duty shelving, C35 is required); adding fiber mesh can enhance crack resistance.
▶︎ Layered compaction: Each layer should be laid with a thickness not exceeding 20 cm, and thoroughly vibrated using a vibrator to eliminate air bubbles.
▶︎ Curing Period: Maintain at least 28 days at room temperature; during winter construction, extend this to 45 days to prevent premature loading.

3️⃣ Precise positioning of embedded components
If using foundation bolts to secure the shelf uprights, pre-mark the positions with lines, ensuring the error is kept within ±5mm. The anchoring depth of expansion screws should be ≥10 times the diameter, and a pull-out test must be conducted to verify the load-bearing capacity.

Industrial shelving floor requirements: Load-bearing foundation treatment and flatness standards

III. Scientific Definition of Flatness Standards
The internationally recognized VNA (Very Narrow Aisle) narrow-aisle racking system imposes strict requirements on floor flatness. The following are the main domestic standards for reference:
| Project | Conventional Shelving Area | Automated Vertical Storage System/AGV Lane |
| Overall Levelness | ≤ ±10 mm/m | ≤ ±3 mm/m |
| Joint Height Difference | <2mm | <1mm |
| Surface Finish | No Sharp Protrusions | Ra ≤ 0.8 μm (Polished) |

Combined application of detection tools: First, use a laser level to measure the overall surface level, then employ a straightedge combined with feeler gauges to check for local height differences. If necessary, pair this with a 3D scanner to generate a topographic map.

IV. Common Misconceptions to Watch Out For
❌ One-sided pursuit of low costs: Excessive use of low-priced cement admixtures can lead to pulverization and sanding in the later stages.
❌ Ignoring dynamic load effects: Designed solely based on static weight, without accounting for the impact torque generated when forklifts are in motion;
❌ Neglect of seasonal factors: Construction in the southern region failed to drain water promptly during the plum rain season, while northern areas lacked adequate frost heave protection during winter.

V. Recommendations for Full Lifecycle Management
1. Annual Re-inspection System: Focus on observing whether gaps at the bottom of shelves, where they contact the floor, have widened;
2. Timing for Repairs: Immediately inject epoxy resin upon discovering even minor cracks to prevent further expansion.
3. Vehicle Adaptation Principle: The width of hydraulic pallet truck tires should match the spacing between the main and secondary shelves, minimizing edge compression damage.

     An excellent industrial racking system is like a precision instrument, while a high-quality floor serves as the invisible cornerstone that ensures its flawless operation. Guangdong Xiada Racking Company has discovered through years of practical experience that customers who invest adequately in professional floor treatments early on typically see their racking systems last an additional 35 years, with overall operational and maintenance costs reduced by more than 40%. When planning to build a new warehouse or renovate an existing factory, be sure to integrate floor engineering into your comprehensive design plan—it’s the most worthwhile investment you can make for safe and efficient production.