Metal shelf systems are an essential element in organising storage for professional kitchens, warehouses or shop backrooms. Unlike wooden shelves, metal shelves are resistant to moisture, do not absorb odours and allow intensive cleaning with disinfectants. The modular design allows adjusting shelf height according to the size of the stored products or containers. BHS offers shelf systems to businesses across Europe.
Types of shelf systems
Stainless steel shelves (AISI 304) — the most hygienic solution for food storage in professional kitchens, warehouses or food production facilities. AISI 304 stainless steel withstands intensive chemical cleaning and direct exposure to moisture. Galvanised metal shelves — an economical and durable solution for warehouses, garages and industrial spaces. The galvanised coating provides good corrosion resistance but is not suitable for direct food contact. Powder-coated metal shelves — a wide range of colours, suitable for shop backrooms, office spaces and more presentable storage solutions. Wire shelves — shelves with a wire surface that ensures air circulation, ideal for fruits, vegetables and products requiring ventilation. BHS helps choose the right shelf type.
Modular system and configuration
The advantage of modular shelf systems is flexible configuration — combinations of height, width and depth allow adapting the system to any space. The standard shelf depth is 30–60 cm, width 60–120 cm per section, height adjustable from 30 to 60 cm between shelves. Multi-section systems connect with shared uprights, saving on the total amount of material. GN type shelf systems for professional kitchens are adapted to standard GN container sizes (530×325 mm or 650×530 mm). BHS helps calculate the required number of shelves and configuration based on the room layout.
HACCP and food storage shelves
In professional kitchens and food warehouses, shelves must meet HACCP hygiene requirements — they must not absorb odours or moisture, must be easy to clean and free of gaps where food residues could accumulate. Stainless steel shelves with AISI 304 are the standard required by sanitary inspections in food processing businesses. Shelves must be at least 15 cm above the floor to allow cleaning underneath. Organising products on shelves according to the FIFO principle and by weight (heavier items lower) is an element of HACCP best practice. BHS offers HACCP compliant shelf systems.
HoReCa and business use scenarios
In a hotel housekeeping storage room, galvanised metal shelves provide stable storage for cleaning supplies and household items in humid conditions. In a factory or plant, heavy-duty metal shelf systems (up to 400–500 kg per shelf) ensure safe storage of raw materials and finished products.
Frequently asked questions
How much weight can a standard metal shelf support? It depends on the structural design and material thickness. Light shelves (wire and thin metal) — 50–100 kg per shelf. Medium-load shelves — 100–200 kg. Heavy-duty shelves — 300–500 kg per shelf with additional support. BHS helps choose the right shelf load class based on the stored weight.
Can I install the shelf system myself? Standard modular shelf system installation is simple and usually done without professional help. Only standard hand tools are required.
Why choose BHS?
BHS – Baltic HoReCa Solutions supplies professional equipment for restaurants, cafés, hotels and canteens: more than 20,000 products from many manufacturers. Our specialists help you choose the right equipment and spare parts for your kitchen or bar.
Delivery
We deliver across the European Union. Delivery time and cost depend on the order volume and destination — contact the BHS team for an exact price and lead time.
