Help Center

Our process

Architects & designers

For nearly 50 years, Rakks has collaborated with the best architects around the world to create beautiful, strong, adaptable shelving systems that are works of art in themselves.

We offer free custom design and technical support to architects and designers. How we work:

  1. Start an inquiry that includes a sketch or photos of your vision/space, with dimensions.
  2. We’ll recommend a custom system for your project.
  3. After you approve the design, we’ll send a shop drawing by our engineers, and a quote.
  4. We will work within your project schedule to ensure timely delivery.

You can initiate this process with
a brief project inquiry here:

Contractors

Order Rakks stock and custom EH support hardware (including counter and vanity brackets and bench supports) in our online store or call us directly at 800-826-6006.

If you’re looking to order shelving systems, we offer free custom design services. If you’re planning a custom shelving project, here’s how we work:

  1. Start an inquiry that includes a sketch or photos of your vision/space, with dimensions.
  2. We’ll recommend a custom system for your project.
  3. After you approve the design, we’ll send a shop drawing by our engineers, and a quote.
  4. We will work within your project schedule to ensure timely delivery.

You can initiate this process with
a brief project inquiry here:

Home owners

You can order our bespoke shelving systems by starting an inquiry here. They are not sold directly on our website; instead, we offer free custom design services to ensure that your shelving system suits the practical, aesthetic and technical needs of your space. (If you’re looking to order EH support hardware, you can find it here in our online store.)

Here’s how we collaborate on a custom shelving project:

  1. Start an inquiry that includes a sketch or photos of your vision/space, with dimensions.
  2. We’ll recommend a custom system for your project.
  3. After you approve the design, we’ll send a shop drawing by our engineers, and a quote.
  4. We will work within your project schedule to ensure timely delivery.

You can initiate this process with
a brief project inquiry here:

Design resources

Design Resources / Downloadable Files

Floating Shelves

Download files related to Floating Shelves. To learn more about this Rakks shelving system, visit the product page.

Wall-mounted Shelving

Download files related to Wall-Mounted Shelving. To learn more about this Rakks shelving system, visit the product page.

BR Pole Shelving

Download files related to BR Pole Shelving. To learn more about this Rakks shelving system, visit the product page.

BL Pole Shelving

Download files related to BL Pole Shelving. To learn more about this Rakks shelving system, visit the product page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

About Us

Who is Rakks’ designer? 

Keivan Towfigh was Rakks’ founder, inventor and designer. You can read more about him and about our company here.

Rakks Products

What is a modular shelving system?

Modular shelving systems are configurable, with the flexibility to fit any space and purpose. Your Rakks Shelving System is adaptable, adjustable and can expand and evolve over time. You can take it from one space and move it to another. Rakks Shelving is designed and crafted to last and get passed down through the generations.

How is the Rakks Bracket different?

Rakks brackets are ingenious, patented shelf supports that provide infinite adjustability, elegance, and a low profile. Designed more than 50 years ago by mechanical engineer and artist, Keivan Towfigh, Rakks brackets provide a sleek, clean look, without predetermined dimensions and positioning. Rakks supports a wide range of applications, from light objets d’art to heavy-duty loads. A myriad of custom finishes are available. Rakks is manufactured in an energy-efficient, lean facility in Westborough, Massachusetts, USA.

What is the difference between "Surface Mount" and "Flush Mount" bracket/standard?

“Surface Mount” means a support bracket or wall standard is mounted to the finished surface of the wall. It has a low profile but is still visible and protrudes past the surface of the wall. A “Flush Mount” bracket or standard, also called “In-Wall”, is a support bracket or wall standard that is installed before the drywall is installed and completed. Flush Mount support brackets or standards are mounted flush to the side of the wall studs or blocking.

Can I hide a counter bracket inside a wall?

In-Wall Brackets, also called “Flush Mount” Brackets, are installed prior to drywall to provide nearly invisible support for counters up to 30″ deep. Optional faceplates save time by covering imperfections in the drywall.

For architects/designers specifying Rakks products

I’m an architect/designer. How do I specify Rakks products in my projects?

You can find design resources, such as CAD files for specifying Shelving Systems and Support Hardware, here.

We offer complimentary design consultation services to specify the Rakks Shelving and Custom Support Hardware applications best suited to your vision. To start the process:

  • Submit an inquiry form and attach a sketch or photo of your vision/space, with dimensions.
  • One of our consultants will review the project with you and provide a drawing for your approval.
  • Once approved, you’ll receive a final drawing with a bill of materials and a budgetary quote that you can include in your plans/specifications.

What do you need to know about the space in which my Shelving System will go?

As we work with you to design your system, it’s really helpful to know the features, measurements and use of the space, taking in to account any obstructions (such as windows, door frames, exposed pipes, ducts, electrical sockets). We’d like to know the wall-to-wall dimension, as well as the exact floor-to-ceiling height. Also, what are your walls, ceilings and floors made of?

Let us know your desired system’s length, width and height. Desired shelf depth is really important; knowing how you plan to use the space and what you plan to put on the shelves—heavy books? Artworks? LPs?—will help determine dimensions and loads. If you can add a few photos from several angles and a diagram marked with the measurements, all the better.

Materials and Manufacturing

Are your materials locally sourced?

All of our materials are sourced near our facility, in the Northeastern United States.

Are your products manufactured in the US?

Yes, in Westborough, Massachusetts, US.

Can you send samples so that I can see what the material and finish looks like?

Yes, we can provide samples of our aluminum shelving and available finishes (clear, black, white). We can custom powder-coat or anodize your Shelving System in just about any color you imagine.

Do you supply shelving made of wood, glass, laminate?

We currently supply our own aluminum Rakks Shelving in many styles. Our clients who wish to use wood, glass, laminate or other materials for their shelves generally source these materials themselves, locally. You will be provided with dimensions to take to your local cabinetry shop, carpenter, or glass shelving supplier. We can also arrange dropshipping. We’d love to hear from you if you’d like us to start offering wood shelving.

Ordering Rakks products

How do I place an order for Support Hardware?

A full range of in-stock Rakks support hardware (ADA vanity brackets, counter and desk supports, bench brackets, accessories and more) is available for order in our Support Hardware webstore. For custom support hardware orders (custom dimensions, finishes and applications), please open an inquiry or give us a call.

How do I order a Rakks Shelving System for my home or apartment?

A little background: For more than 50 years, Rakks has proudly outfitted homes and apartments with our beautiful, adjustable, customizable shelving. Our customers have a long history of bringing their Rakks Shelving Systems with them when they move from place to place. Rakks Shelving Systems are not sold in our web store—the reason for this is that each space’s dimensions, uses and quirks is unique. We offer complimentary design consultation services so that each system is made to order. We will work with you to ensure that your Rakks Shelving System fulfills the practical, aesthetic and technical needs of your space, be it a home office, library, kitchen, closet or beyond. To design your system:

  • Submit an inquiry form and attach a sketch, photo or description of your vision/space, with dimensions.
  • One of our consultants will review the project with you and provide a drawing for your approval.
  • We’ll provide a final drawing with a detailed quote (including shipping) for you to approve and sign. You can then securely enter credit card information.

Can I buy your shelving systems from a retail store?

Currently, Shelf Shop Guy in New York City and The Door Store in Cambridge, MA are the retail outfits that carry our Rakks Shelving Systems. They can install Rakks Shelving Systems for you within their designated regions. Beyond that, you can design and order a system directly with us.

I’m an architect/designer/contractor. How do I place an order for Shelving Systems?

We offer complimentary design consultation services to specify the Rakks Shelving applications best suited to your vision. To start the process:

  • Submit an inquiry form with a sketch or photo of your vision/space with dimensions.
  • One of our consultants will review the project with you and provide a drawing for your approval.
  • We’ll provide a final drawing with a detailed quote (including shipping) for you to approve and sign. You can then securely enter credit card information. Payment terms are available for commercial accounts.

What do you need to know about the space in which my Shelving System will go?

As we work with you to design your system, it’s really helpful to know the features, measurements and use of the space, taking in to account any obstructions (such as windows, door frames, exposed pipes, ducts, electrical sockets). We’d like to know the wall-to-wall dimension, as well as the exact floor-to-ceiling height. Also, what are your walls, ceilings and floors made of?

Let us know your desired system’s length, width and height. Desired shelf depth is really important; knowing how you plan to use the space and what you plan to put on the shelves—heavy books? Artworks? LPs?—will help determine dimensions and loads. If you can add a few photos from several angles and a diagram marked with the measurements, all the better.

How long will it take to ship my order?

  • Most orders for Rakks Support Hardware ship the next business day. Lead times for large or custom orders are generally 2–3 weeks and will be quoted by your sales rep. We can usually provide partial shipments to keep your project moving.
  • Most Rakks Shelving orders ship within 3–10 business days. Lead times for large commercial orders are generally 4–6 weeks. The expected lead time for your project will be provided by your sales rep along with a detailed quote.
  • Lead times may vary due to the impact of COVID-19. However, because we source and manufacture all our products locally, we have seen only a minimal impact on lead times thus far.

Do you offer trade and/or quantity discounts?

We do offer discounts to trade professionals. Our team works on providing the most competitive pricing for your project. Contact us.

How do I inquire about trade discounts?

Speak with our sales team to discuss our trade discount program.

Secure Payments

What payment methods are available to me?

We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, Diner’s Club International, JCB, and company checks (for customers with terms).

Will the payment be secure?

Rakks payments are processed via Authorize.Net, which uses high-level SSL encryption technology.

What is the payment process?

We take payment from your card when you have entered your payment details and clicked the ‘Place order’ button on checkout. We start custom orders and stock shipments once we have received your payment. For commercial accounts wishing to apply for open credit terms, please contact us.

What currencies do you accept?

Payment for deliveries to the United States and Canada will be in US dollars (USD).

Cancellation and Returns

Returns are a hassle. What can I do to avoid errors in my order?

Before placing your order, please double- and triple-check to be sure you are ordering the components, dimensions, color, finish and quantity that you would like, and that you’ve given us the correct shipping address.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes, we do accept cancelations if we have not started production as yet. To cancel an order, please contact Service@Rakks.com or call 781-455-8700 Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm.

What if I need to return items?

The first step is to inspect your shipment immediately upon receipt to be sure the components, dimensions, color, finish, quantity and condition are correct. We cannot accept returns without proper authorization and documentation, so if you need to return products, please contact Service@Rakks.com or 781-455-8700, Option 1. Our team will work closely with you to authorize the return and arrange for shipping back to us.

Orders are eligible for return: if initiated within 60 days of delivery and if a return authorization has been issued by Rakks.

  • A 20% restocking fee will be deducted from the refund amount.
  • Return shipping charges will be deducted from the refund.
  • Any product not in new condition (damaged by shipping or otherwise) will be deducted from the refund amount.

Orders are not eligible for return: if the order was received by us more than 60 days after it was delivered to you; if the products in the order are cut-to-length or custom items; and/or if the returned products are not in new condition due to damage from shipping, installation or mishandling while in your possession.

What should I do if an item or items arrive damaged?

We package all items carefully to ensure that they arrive safely, but items do get damaged from time to time.

Please inspect your order immediately upon delivery.

Look for damage to the boxes and palletized items. If a box or package arrives visibly damaged, please take photos before you open it so that a damage claim may be made with the carrier. Then, open each box and/or pallet and look at the products inside. Take photos of any items that are bent, dented, or have a damaged finish. We need to hear from you as soon as possible if items are damaged in shipping.

Some shipping services only accept claims for damages within 72 hours of delivery, so prompt reporting is really important. To report shipping damage, please contact Service@Rakks.com or 781-455-8700, Option 1.

Shipping and Delivery

Where do you ship from?

Westborough, MA, USA.

How do you ship?

Most orders ship via UPS or UPS Freight. Options are available for special delivery requirements such as residential and inside deliveries. Please inform our team if you have any special shipping requirements.

What are shipping costs based on?

Shipping costs are fluctuating quite a bit these days, but are based on the dimensions and weight of the box, as well as where it is being shipped to. We strive to pack your order in the most efficient and waste-free manner that also protects the material. We utilize a range of shipping methods, depending on the size of the shipment and the nature of the destination (construction sites, apartments, retail stores in malls all might require different shipping methods).

Can I schedule a delivery time?

We can time your shipment to go out on a particular date. We have white glove services available with which you can schedule a specific delivery time. UPS Ground will give you an estimated delivery window.

Can I buy your products if I am located outside the US?

Yes, we are happy to ship our Shelving Systems and Support Hardware internationally. Talk to a rep to discuss logistics.

Do you have representatives in Europe?

We are more than happy to design and ship our Shelving Systems and Support Hardware internationally. Although we do not currently have representation in Europe, over the decades, Rakks has created many beautiful custom Shelving Systems in the UK/Europe. Talk to a rep to discuss.

How do I order from Canada?

We regularly ship from the US to Canada. You can order Support Hardware through our online store or, if you’d like a custom system, please start an inquiry. Note that additional cross-border duties and fees may apply.

What should I do if an item or items arrive damaged?

We package all items carefully to ensure that they arrive safely, but items do get damaged from time to time.

Please inspect your order immediately upon delivery.

Look for damage to the boxes and palletized items. If a box or package arrives visibly damaged, please take photos before you open it so that a damage claim may be made with the carrier. Then, open each box and/or pallet and look at the products inside. Take photos of any items that are bent, dented, or have a damaged finish. We need to hear from you as soon as possible if items are damaged in shipping.

Some shipping services only accept claims for damages within 72 hours of delivery, so prompt reporting is really important. To report shipping damage, please contact Service@Rakks.com or 781-455-8700, Option 1.

What should I do if I receive incorrect items, or something is missing from my order?

To minimize shipping costs, we often bundle items together, so please be sure to inspect each box thoroughly when your order arrives. If you find that incorrect product was sent or if something is missing, let us know right away at Service@Rakks.com or 781-455-8700, Option 1. Our team will work diligently with you to replace any incorrect or missing items.

What if I need to return items?

The first step is to inspect your shipment immediately upon receipt to be sure the components, dimensions, color, finish, quantity and condition are correct. We cannot accept returns without proper authorization and documentation, so if you need to return products, please contact Service@Rakks.com or 781-455-8700, Option 1. Our team will work closely with you to authorize the return and arrange for shipping back to us.

Orders are eligible for return: if initiated within 60 days of delivery and if a return authorization has been issued by Rakks.

  • A 20% restocking fee will be deducted from the refund amount.
  • Return shipping charges will be deducted from the refund.
  • Any product not in new condition (damaged by shipping or otherwise) will be deducted from the refund amount.

Orders are not eligible for return: if the order was received by us more than 60 days after it was delivered to you; if the products in the order are cut-to-length or custom items; and/or if the returned products are not in new condition due to damage from shipping, installation or mishandling while in your possession.

Sustainability and Accessibility

Do your products support Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification on my project?

Yes, Rakks products are in support of LEED certification. We have a LEED statement available for download here. As part of the ethos of our company, we are striving on an ongoing basis to uphold principles of energy efficiency and lean manufacturing wherever possible. This applies to energy-efficient choices we’ve made for our 1965-era renovated facility in Westborough, MA, local sourcing wherever possible, packaging, reuse, recycling, and other measures.

Are your products configured for seismic events?

Rakks can specially configure our systems to help reduce the effects of seismic events and meet local requirements. Contact a sales representative here to recommend the best options, including shelf lips, extra tie brackets, hold-down clips and bridge clips.

Privacy

What is your privacy policy?

Our privacy statement is here.

Contact Rakks

What are your business hours?

Hours of operation are Monday through Friday 9AM–5PM EST.

How do I contact customer service?

Rakks customer service: 781-455-8700, Ext #1 | Questions about a return? Service@Rakks.com

How do I contact sales?

Rakks sales: 781-455-8700, Ext #2 | Sales@Rakks.com

How do I contact accounting?

Rakks accounting: 781-455-8700, Ext #3 | Accounting@Rakks.com