Narrow aisle forklifts
Narrow aisle forklifts are normally used within warehousing applications. These forklifts are vital equipments within the industry since their excellent maneuverability and small size allow warehouses to maximize storing space. They could easily negotiate aisles as narrow as 1.8 meters wide, whereas typical lift trucks require at least 3.4 meters of aisle width.
This particular type of forklift is sub-categorized as "narrow aisle forklifts" and "very narrow aisle forklifts". The former require 2.4 meters - 3 meters in aisle width, whereas the latter can function in a 1.8 meters wide space.
The design of a narrow aisle forklift includes forks positioned at right angles to the body of the truck. The trucks do not need to face the shelves, but instead drive straight down the aisle picking up loads to the side. This particular design feature is the key to their suitability for limited spaces.
To be able to make certain that the forklift is moving in a straight line down the aisle, some very narrow aisle forklifts comprise optical or wire systems. That way, the operator could focus more on the picking and the placement of loads.
These kinds of lifts are equipped with cushion tires made from solid rubber. The hard tires perform well on paved, smooth surfaces and concrete floors. Narrow aisle forklifts have electric motors suited for use in indoor places. Propane-powered models are available too.