Reach Forklifts
In nearly all distribution centers or warehouse settings, overall space is usually limited. If you can get a machine to use in smaller spaces and aisles, the more storage space a company will be able manage. Hence, specialized equipment has been designed to be used in really narrow aisles to be able to maximize efficiency and space.
Reach Trucks
A reach forklift is a specific type of equipment which 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 much narrower compared to the typical forklift.
Operator Position
Most reach trucks are designed so that the driver is standing while operating the unit. This is a contrast to the standard forklift where the operator is normally sitting. The standing operation area lessens the amount of room needed for the compartment of the operator, enabling the machine to achieve an even smaller profile overall.
Space Saving
Aisle-ways can be made as narrow as 7 feet with a reach truck. The majority of typical forklifts need a minimum aisle space of about 11 feet; therefore, utilizing a reach truck gives around a savings of 5 feet per aisle. When the warehouse is leased by the square foot basis, this is a considerable amount of space.
Unique Controls
Usually, a reach truck is steered utilizing a rotating lever located beside the operator on a platform. There is another 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 compared to regular forklift controls.
Load Capacity
The reach truck will normally have a load capacity less than regular forklifts. This is largely due to the equipment's narrow design, that could cause a very high center of gravity. When the mast is fully extended and the load is raised, this is particularly true.