Reach Truck
A reach truck is used to stock up pallets of goods, supplies, and to keep storage areas orderly. The reach truck comes in quite a few types: the stand-up reach, double-deep reach and straddle reach.
The stand-up is the simplest. The forks of the truck slide underneath the pallet and move it to the right storage location. The forks slide the pallet into position. This particular kind of reach truck is suitable when shelving units are one pallet in depth.
Best for workplaces where the shelving units are deep enough to accommodate two pallets of goods, the double-deep reach truck, that is similar to the stand-up, is commonly used. This model consists of telescopic forks intended to position the pallet at the back of the shelving unit. This eliminates the need to push the pallet back when another pallet needs to go into the same shelving section.
The added advantage of straddle reaches is that they can both slide underneath the pallet and grasp the sides as well. These are recommended for workplaces where shelving units could be accessed in many directions. This particular model is ideal in situations where goods would not be damaged if the sides of the pallet are grabbed.
Normally more than one kind of reach truck is needed in warehouses. Manufacturing facilities and textile firms use different kinds of reach trucks in their supply areas. The reach truck is not difficult to use and could make the most of available storage space while increasing production.