Selecting the right retail shelving is crucial for optimizing your store's layout, enhancing product visibility, and improving the overall shopping experience. Whether you're setting up a supermarket, convenience store, or specialty shop, understanding standard dimensions and factors like height, width, and load capacity can make all the difference.
In this guide, we'll break down how to choose the perfect gondola shelving system, drawing from industry standards and best practices.
How to Choose Dimensions for Retail Shelving
The dimensions of your retail shelving directly impact space utilization, customer accessibility, and merchandising efficiency. Key considerations include height, width, depth, and the number of layers. Standard gondola shelving is modular, allowing for customization, but starting with common sizes ensures compatibility and cost-effectiveness.
How tall should a retail shelf be
The height of retail shelving should balance maximizing display space with maintaining visibility and ease of access for customers.
Standard heights typically range from 48 inches (4 feet) to 96 inches (8 feet), with the most common being 48 to 72 inches for optimal sightlines and security in smaller stores.
For larger supermarkets, taller units around 72 to 84 inches (or 1.8m to 2.1m) are popular to display more goods vertically without overwhelming the space. In convenience stores, aim for 54 to 60 inches to keep products within easy reach and enhance security.
Consider your store's ceiling height, aisle width, and product types—taller shelves work well for lightweight items on upper levels, but ensure lower shelves (around eye level, 48-60 inches) hold high-turnover products.
Customizable options from manufacturers like Heda Shelves allow heights from 1200mm to 2400mm (47-94 inches) to fit specific needs.
How wide should I choose for retail shelf
Width selection depends on your store's floor space, product variety, and traffic flow. Standard retail shelving units are commonly 36 inches or 48 inches wide, providing a good balance between display area and aisle accessibility. Wider units (up to 48 inches) are ideal for bulkier items or high-volume displays in supermarkets, while narrower 36-inch options suit compact spaces like convenience stores.
The depth of retail shelves typically range from 10 to 20 inches deep, with 12-16 inches being standard for most retail applications. For aisles, maintain 1.2-1.5 meters (about 4-5 feet) of space to allow easy trolley movement. Heda Shelves offers widths from 900mm to 1200mm (35-47 inches), customizable to your layout.
Load Capacity of Retail Shelving
Load capacity ensures your shelves can safely support your inventory without risking collapse or damage. Typical capacities for gondola shelves range from 50-80kg (110-176 lbs) per shelf for standard setups, but can go up to 500-600 lbs for heavier-duty models, depending on size and configuration. Base shelves often have higher ratings (up to 350 lbs) compared to upper ones.
Factor in the weight of your products—heavy items like appliances require reinforced shelves, while lighter goods allow for standard capacities. Always check certifications like CE or ISO for safety. Heda's gondola shelving supports 50-150kg per layer, making it versatile for various retail needs.
Step by step to choose retail shelving system
Choosing the right shelving system involves a systematic approach to match your store's unique requirements. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Step 1 : Assess Your Store's Needs: Evaluate the types of products you'll display, their sizes, weights, and turnover rates. Consider your store's overall layout, customer demographics, and traffic patterns.
Step 2: Measure Your Space: Take accurate measurements of floor space, ceiling height, and aisle widths. Ensure shelves fit without obstructing movement—recommend 1.2-1.5m aisles for accessibility.
Step 3: Determine Dimensions and Capacity: Based on standards, select heights (48-96 inches), widths (36-48 inches), and depths (10-20 inches). Match load capacity to your inventory, opting for customizable options if needed.
Step 4: Choose Material and Features: Opt for durable materials like cold-rolled steel with powder coating for longevity. Look for modular designs with accessories like hooks or dividers for versatility.
Step 5: Consider Aesthetics and Branding: Select colors and styles that align with your store's theme to enhance the shopping experience.
Step 6: Budget and Supplier Selection: Compare costs, including installation and shipping. Choose reputable manufacturers like Heda Shelves for quality, customization, and support.
Step 7: Test and Install: Request samples or CAD designs, then install with professional help if required.
Conclusion
Choosing the right retail shelving size and system is about more than just fitting products—it's about creating an efficient, appealing store that drives sales. By focusing on standard dimensions, load capacities, and a thoughtful selection process, you can transform your space. For high-quality, customizable gondola shelving, consider Heda Shelves, with over 20 years of expertise in delivering tailored solutions.
FAQ
Q: What is the most common height for retail gondola shelving? A: The standard ranges from 48 to 72 inches, but it can go up to 96 inches depending on the store type.
Q: How do I determine the right width for my shelves? A: Common widths are 36 or 48 inches; choose based on your products and space, ensuring ample aisle room.
Q: What load capacity should I look for in retail shelves? A: Aim for 50-150kg per layer for standard use, or higher for heavy items, Send your design to HEDA Shelves Sale Team.
Q: How much space should I leave between aisles? A: 1.2-1.5 meters is recommended for easy navigation and trolley access.