Reach Forklifts
Space is generally at a premium in most distribution centers or warehouse environments. The less space needed for aisles in which to utilize equipment, the more space overall you will have to store products and goods. Therefore, particular equipment has been designed to be used in very narrow aisles so that space and efficiency can be maximized.
Reach Trucks
The specialized reach forklift has a mast that extends away from the forklifts body. It often is attached with a scissor mechanism. When the scissor is compacted or drawn in, the forklift becomes a lot narrower compared to the standard forklift.
Operator Position
Reach trucks are designed so the driver could stand while in operation of the machinery. This is a contrast to the typical forklift where the driver is usually sitting. The standing operation area reduces the amount of room required for the compartment of the operator, allowing the machine to achieve an even smaller profile overall.
Space Saving
With a reach truck, aisles could be made as narrow as 7 feet. Most typical forklifts need a minimum aisle space of approximately 11 feet; therefore, using a reach truck provides about a savings of 5 feet per aisle. When the warehouse is leased by the square foot basis, this is a significant amount of space.
Unique Controls
A reach truck is usually steered using a rotating lever that is situated on a platform beside the driver. There is one more lever utilized to control forward and reverse, the mast and for extending the mast. These controls are somewhat different than regular forklift controls.
Load Capacity
Usually, the reach truck's load capacity is less than that of a regular lift truck, depending on the kind. This is largely because of the narrow design of the machinery, which can lead to a really high center of gravity. When the mast is fully extended and the load is lifted, this is particularly true.