What are picture racking systems?
Picture racking systems are specialist high-density storage solutions for framed artwork, canvases, panels and three-dimensional objects. Each artwork is hung or slotted individually so it can be inspected, removed and returned without disturbing surrounding pieces. Picture racking systems are specified across UK museums, galleries, auction houses and fine-art storage facilities as the standard solution for reserve collection storage.
The three main types
Static picture racking systems
Fixed vertical dividers or wall-mounted mesh panels creating individual slots for framed artwork. Cost-effective for smaller stores and viewing rooms where access frequency is moderate.
Mobile (roller) picture racking systems
Picture racking bays mounted on wheeled carriages that travel along recessed or surface floor tracks. Eliminating fixed aisles typically doubles storage capacity in the same footprint — the preferred specification for large museum reserve collections.
Sliding panel racking systems
Mesh screens suspended from overhead tracks that slide laterally for access. Ideal for galleries and conservation stores where artworks must remain hanging vertically and accessible for inspection.
Key features
- Fully adjustable dividers and hanging hooks
- Conservation-grade, inert, non-off-gassing materials
- Climate-compatible — suitable for controlled environments
- Steel construction with museum-grade powder-coat finish
- Modular and expandable as collections grow
- Load-rated for heavy canvases, frames and panels
Who specifies picture racking systems?
Picture racking systems are specified by museum professionals, gallery collection managers, registrars, conservators, art storage operators, auction house warehouse managers and corporate collection curators. Specifications typically include load-bearing requirements, sliding mechanism specification, conservation-grade materials and integration with existing storage furniture.
Compliance: PAS 197 and BS 4971
Rackstor picture racking systems are designed to support compliance with PAS 197 (Code of practice for cultural collections management) and BS 4971 (Conservation and care of archive and library collections). Materials are inert and non-off-gassing, finishes are conservation-safe, and load testing is carried out to BS EN standards.
Rackstor's experience
Rackstor UK Ltd has more than 25 years of experience designing and installing picture racking systems for national and regional museums, galleries, university libraries, auction houses and private collections across the United Kingdom, Europe, the Middle East and the United States. Every system is engineered in-house and installed by our certified team.
Free site survey & fixed-price quotation
Speak to a picture racking specialist. We'll visit your site, assess your collection and provide a fixed-price quotation with no obligation.
Picture racking systems FAQs
What is a picture racking system?
A picture racking system is a specialist storage solution for framed artwork, canvases and panels — using vertical dividers or hanging screens to store each piece individually accessible in a compact footprint.
Do you supply picture racking for museums?
Yes. Rackstor UK Ltd has supplied and installed picture racking for museums, galleries and heritage organisations across the UK. Call 0800 654 6955 for a free survey.
What sizes of picture racking do you supply?
We supply picture racking for all sizes of artwork from small prints to large canvases and heavy panels. All systems are designed to your collection's specific size and weight requirements.