Reach Forklifts
Space is generally at a premium in most distribution centers or warehouse environments. The less space required for aisles in which to use equipment, the more space overall you will have for the storage of products and goods. Hence, specialized equipment has been intended for operating in very narrow aisles so that efficiency and space could be maximized.
Reach Trucks
A reach forklift is a specific type of equipment which has a mast which extends away from the forklift's body. It usually is attached with a scissor apparatus. When the scissor is compacted or drawn in, the forklift becomes a lot narrower compared to the regular forklift.
Operator Position
Most reach trucks are designed so that the operator is standing while operating the unit. This is a contrast to the standard forklift where the driver is usually sitting. The standing operation area lessens the amount of room needed for the operator compartment, enabling the machinery to achieve an even smaller profile overall.
Space Saving
With a reach truck, aisles can be made as narrow as 7 feet. Most standard forklifts require a minimum aisle space of approximately 11 feet; thus, utilizing a reach truck provides about a savings of 5 feet on each aisle. When the warehouse is leased by the square foot basis, this is a considerable amount of space.
Unique Controls
A reach truck is usually steered using a rotating lever which is situated on a platform beside the operator. There is a different lever used to control the mast as well as for extending the mast and also to control forward and reverse. These controls are quite different than regular forklift controls.
Load Capacity
Normally, the load capacity for a reach truck is less than that of a regular forklift, depending on the kind. This is mainly because of the equipment's narrow design, which can result in a very high center of gravity. When the load is lifted and the mast is extended fully, this is particularly true.