ᐅ How much weight can the compartments in a Kallax unit actually hold?

Created on: 24 Jul 2018 13:27

Hello everyone,

I am currently looking into the question of how much weight each individual compartment of the Ikea Kallax shelving unit can actually hold.

I’m specifically referring to the dimensions of a standard compartment, roughly 33 x 33 cm (13 x 13 inches), assuming the shelf is used correctly and no additional heavy loads are applied unevenly or sideways. Unfortunately, there are very different figures online, often vague or lacking reliable data from official sources. So, what are your experiences, or does anyone know trustworthy numbers for the realistic and safe load per compartment?

I am interested both in the static load capacity (i.e., long-term) as well as possible short-term loads of around 20-30 kg (44-66 lbs) per compartment.

Thanks in advance for your insights!

leguson24 Jul 2018 17:15

In my experience, the compartments regularly hold about 12 to 15 kilograms (26 to 33 pounds) of books without any issues. I wouldn’t recommend exceeding that, as it could compromise stability.

Wall mounting is essential; otherwise, the shelving unit becomes too unstable.

KESIRI24 Jul 2018 17:48

I confirm that 13-15 kg (29-33 lbs) is a realistic load per compartment. Beyond that, the shelves may bend. For heavy items, it is better to use multiple compartments or optimize weight distribution.

Gino3825 Jul 2018 09:05

pihalit0 schrieb:
What are your experiences or does anyone know reliable figures for what load per compartment is realistic and safe?

As a carpenter, I can confirm that Kallax is not designed as a heavy-duty industrial or workshop solution. The 13 kg (29 lbs) per compartment is a realistic manufacturer’s specification for continuous load.

I strongly recommend properly attaching the back panel and, when placing heavy items, distributing the weight across several compartments with lower loads rather than overloading a single compartment. Otherwise, there is a risk of deformation, especially with older shelves.

Kabau25 Jul 2018 10:16

#10

Summary:
- Continuous load on Kallax compartment: approximately 13 kg (29 lbs)
- Short-term load: up to about 20 kg (44 lbs) possible
- Even weight distribution is essential
- Screw in the back panel and secure the shelf to the wall
- For heavier loads, it is better to choose alternative shelving units

This can be recommended.

ᐅ How much weight can the compartments in a Kallax unit actually hold?

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