Abstract The paper describes a finite element analysis of a boltless semi-rigid beam-end connector used in the storage rack industry. An elastic three-dimensional linear analysis of the connector was made and the results compared with experiments. The effects of different boundary conditions were investigated. Sub-models of the part of the upright in contact with the connection were made to determine the influence of upright behaviour on the moment–curvature relation. Comparisons with experimental results are made to validate the model. The paper also points out the variation in connection stiffness found by using different measurement positions.