Pallet racking clips are some of the smallest components in your warehouse, yet they play one of the biggest roles in keeping your storage system safe. Also known as safety clips or locking pins, these simple pieces of hardware stop beams from accidentally dislodging from uprights. Without them, your racking is at risk of collapse, creating a serious hazard for both your staff and your stock.
At Advanced Handling & Storage Ltd, we often see warehouses using clips that don’t fit their system correctly, which can undermine safety. In this guide, we explain how to identify the right pallet racking clips for your system and why brand compatibility matters.
Every pallet racking beam is held in place by a series of connectors that hook into the upright frame. Although this is a strong connection, it needs an extra level of security to prevent accidental dislodging caused by impact or vibration. That’s where pallet racking clips come in. They lock beams into position, ensuring that your racking remains stable even in busy environments where forklifts and pallet trucks are constantly in use. Using the wrong clips, or worse, no clips at all, increases the chance of accidents and can put you out of compliance with UK warehouse safety guidelines.
One of the most common mistakes warehouse operators make is assuming that racking clips are universal. In reality, each racking brand uses a unique design of beam connector, which means clips must be matched correctly. HiLo, Dexion, Link 51 and Apex are among the most widely used brands in the UK, and each requires a specific style of clip. Using the wrong type can cause poor fit, instability, or failure under load. Identifying your system’s brand is the first step to sourcing the right safety clips and ensuring long-term security.
The simplest way to identify the correct pallet racking clips is to confirm the brand of your racking system. Look for manufacturer stamps or labels on the uprights and beams. If these are missing, the design of the connector holes or beam end plates often provides a clear clue.
For example, Dexion Speedlock beams use a distinctive slot pattern that matches a specific safety lock design, while HiLo and Link 51 systems each have their own clip shape. If in doubt, a specialist supplier like Advanced Handling & Storage Ltd can inspect your racking and identify the exact clip required.
Racking clips may seem minor, but leaving them out or using ill-fitting alternatives puts your warehouse at risk. Without the correct locking pins, beams can dislodge under load, particularly when struck by forklifts or when heavy pallets are placed unevenly. This can lead to partial or full collapse, risking serious injury and costly damage. Beyond the safety risks, a missing or incorrect clip could result in your warehouse failing to meet SEMA and HSE inspection standards.
Are pallet racking clips universal?
No. Each racking manufacturer designs clips to fit their own beam connectors, so you must use clips that match the brand of your system.
How many clips are needed per beam?
Typically, one clip is required for each end of the beam, meaning two clips per beam in total. Always follow manufacturer guidelines.
What happens if clips are missing?
Missing clips allow beams to become dislodged, increasing the risk of collapse, accidents and safety non-compliance.
Can I use bolts instead of racking clips?
No. Bolts or makeshift alternatives are unsafe and should never replace manufacturer-approved safety clips.
Where can I buy replacement pallet racking clips in the UK?
Replacement clips are available through specialist suppliers like Advanced Handling & Storage Ltd, who can provide the correct type for your system.
At Advanced Handling & Storage Ltd, we supply genuine pallet racking clips for leading systems including HiLo, Dexion, Link 51 and Apex. Our team can quickly identify your system, match the correct clips and ensure your racking is compliant and safe. Whether you are replacing missing clips, upgrading your system or buying used racking, we make sure every beam is locked in securely.
Contact us today to order replacement clips or arrange a site visit to check your warehouse safety.
