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 would have to store products and goods. Thus, specialized machine has been designed for operating in really narrow aisles so that efficiency and space could be maximized.
Reach Trucks
The specialized reach lift truck has a mast that 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
Reach trucks are designed so the operator could stand while in operation of the machinery. This is a contrast to the standard lift truck where the operator is normally sitting. The standing operation area lessens the amount of room required for the driver compartment, enabling the machinery to accomplish an even smaller profile overall.
Space Saving
Aisle-ways can be made as narrow as 7 feet with a reach truck. Most standard forklifts need a minimum aisle space of around 11 feet; thus, utilizing a reach truck provides roughly a savings of 5 feet per aisle. When renting a warehouse on a square foot basis, this is a significant amount of space.
Unique Controls
A reach truck is usually steered using a rotating lever which is located on a platform beside the driver. There is a different lever utilized to control forward and reverse, the mast as well as for extending the mast. These controls are somewhat different than regular forklift controls.
Load Capacity
Normally, the load capacity for a reach truck is less than that of a regular forklift, depending on the model. This is largely due to the narrow design of the machinery, that can cause a really high center of gravity. When the load is raised and the mast is fully extended, this is actually true.