Reach Forklifts
Space is normally at a premium in most distribution centers or warehouse settings. The less space needed for aisles in which to use machines, the more space overall you will have for the storage of goods and products. Thus, specialized equipment has been intended to be utilized in very narrow aisles so as to maximize efficiency and space.
Reach Trucks
A reach forklift is a specific type of machinery that has a mast which extends away from the body of the forklift. It often is attached with a scissor mechanism. When the scissor is compacted or drawn in, the forklift becomes a lot narrower that the typical forklift.
Operator Position
Reach trucks are designed so the driver can stand while in operation of the machinery. This is a contrast to the typical forklift where the driver is normally sitting. The standing operation area reduces the amount of room required for the compartment of the operator, enabling the machine to accomplish an even smaller profile overall.
Space Saving
With a reach truck, aisles can be made as narrow as 7 feet. Nearly all standard lift trucks need a minimum aisle space of about 11 feet; hence, using a reach truck provides around a savings of 5 feet on each aisle. When the warehouse is leased by the square foot basis, this is a significant amount of space.
Unique Controls
A reach truck is normally steered using a rotating lever which is situated on a platform beside the driver. There is one more lever used to control the mast and for extending the mast and also to control forward and reverse. These controls are somewhat different than standard forklift controls.
Load Capacity
The reach truck would normally have a load capacity less than standard forklifts. This is largely because of the equipment's narrow design, 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.