Archive storage solutions play a vital role with offices, libraries, universities/education, museums and more, where practical, efficient systems are essential for protecting documents, books and precious artefacts.
Well-designed archive storage solutions keep collections safe and secure while supporting day-to-day functionality and processes. By tailoring storage to the materials being stored, and to the size and layout of the building, it is possible to maximise floorspace, adjust capacity as collections grow and ensure everything remains organised, efficient and easy to access.
Effective archive storage solutions also improve the efficiency of audits and helps organisations meet key legal requirements relating to data protection, data loss prevention and security.
With experience dating back to 1984, Rackline delivers high-quality storage solutions, including static and mobile shelving systems, all designed to meet the current standards and regulations of the British Trade Association of the Storage Equipment Industry (SEMA), giving customers confidence in the performance and safety of their archive storage. All our systems, are designed and manufactured in the UK.
Archive Storage Solutions
At Rackline we have been supporting organisations in the creation of perfect archive storage areas since 1984. Below are just some of the archive storage solutions installed on these sites:
Roller Racking (Mobile Shelving)
Rackline’s Roller racking systems are mobile storage systems that are mounted on mobile bases. These mobile shelving units are designed to move effortlessly on tracks and remove the aisle space you would need with conventional static shelving solutions. Roller racking systems can save up to 70% of the space associated with regular static archive shelving systems.
Static Archive Shelving Solutions
These shelving systems are, as the name suggests, shelving units designed to stay in place. Static shelving systems take many forms, with structures and weight bearing abilities to meet the needs of the items you wish to store. Rackline static shelving systems consist of double-sided gondolas, single-sided static shelving units and wall units. These units in turn feature fixed or adjustable shelves to adapt to your changing needs.
Plan Chests
Rackline’s plan chest units provide archives with superior preservation for oversized documents like blueprints and maps. They allow for flat, horizontal storage that prevents folding, bending, or rolling damage over time.
Their shallow, broad drawers enhance accessibility, enabling quick retrieval and inspection with minimal handling to reduce wear on fragile materials. Further, locks are available in configurations to meet your unique needs, ensuring items are kept secure.
Archive Storage Gallery
Below are just a small selection of past projects that have required uniquely tailored archive storage solutions. The storage installed includes the above systems (Roller Racking, Static Archive Shelving and Plan Chests) , together with rotary units for heavy duty filing and secure cabinets for exceptional protection for confidential documents.
Archive Storage FAQs
What is the difference between archive storage and regular office shelving?
Archive storage uses heavy-duty, adjustable archive shelving engineered for long-term document preservation, high-density box storage, and compliance requirements. Unlike standard office shelving, it supports heavier loads (up to 175kg per level), offers deeper shelves (400–600mm), and uses corrosion-resistant finishes suitable for controlled environments.
What types of archive shelving does Rackline offer?
We provide static archive shelving (See the systems here), mobile archive shelving (Monotrak, Multitrak for huge density gains), and bespoke combinations. Static suits open-access archives; mobile maximises floorspace in records centres, libraries, museums, and NHS facilities.
How much weight can archive shelving safely hold?
Rackline archive shelving typically supports 125–700kg per shelf level (UDL), depending on shelving model, bay height and configuration. We provide exact load data and recommend even weight distribution with heaviest items on lower shelves.
Is archive shelving suitable for museums and libraries?
Yes, our archive storage solutions protect delicate artefacts, books, and records with adjustable shelves, dust-resistant finishes, and configurations for A4 boxes up to oversized plan chests. We regularly supply museum-grade archive shelving with compliance for environmental controls.
How do I choose between static and mobile archive storage?
Choose static archive shelving for frequent access and budget constraints. Select mobile archive shelving for high-density needs (maximum capacity by eliminating fixed aisles). We’ll survey your space and recommend based on retrieval frequency and growth plans.
Can archive shelving be installed in basements or mezzanines?
Absolutely. Rackline archive storage systems are engineered for level floors with galvanised or powder-coated finishes to resist damp conditions. Mezzanine installations include reinforced fixings and load assessments to meet building regulations.
How quickly can archive shelving be delivered and installed?
Standard archive shelving bays ship within 5–10 working days (contact us for stock availability). Manufacture of bespoke or mobile archive storage systems vary depend upon specifiaction and current workload. Installation by our teams again is dependent on current workload, and the number of bays being installed. Talk to our team to look at timescales for your project.
Does archive storage meet fire safety and compliance standards?
Yes, Rackline archive shelving complies with UK loading standards (BS EN 15635), fire-resistant powder-coating options, and adjustable layouts supporting 80% fill rules for safe access. We provide certification and can advise on specific records management regulations.
Find out more about our Archive Storage Solutions, download the brochure below.
If you are looking to enhance your current archive or you are looking to create a new one, then feel free to contact us on 01782 770 144. or email: info@rackline.co.uk. Alternatively fill in the form below to both download a brochure and to send us a message. One of our team will come back to you with more details.