Reach Forklifts
In the majority of distribution centers or warehouse environments, overall space is normally limited. If you can get a machine to utilize in smaller spaces and aisles, the more storage space a company will be able manage. Thus, particular machine has been intended for operating in extremely narrow aisles so that efficiency and space could be maximized.
Reach Trucks
A reach forklift is a specialized type of machine that has a mast which extends away from the body of the forklift. Normally, it is attached with a scissor mechanism. When the scissor is drawn in or compacted, the forklift becomes a lot narrower compared to the standard forklift.
Operator Position
The majority of reach trucks are designed so that the operator is standing while operating the unit. This is a contrast to the standard forklift where the operator is usually sitting. The standing operation area lessens the amount of room required for the compartment of the driver, allowing the machine to achieve an even smaller profile overall.
Space Saving
With a reach truck, aisles can be made as narrow as 7 feet. Nearly all standard forklifts require a minimum aisle space of approximately 11 feet; hence, utilizing a reach truck gives roughly a savings of 5 feet on each aisle. When renting a warehouse on a square foot basis, this is a significant amount of space.
Unique Controls
Normally, a reach truck is steered utilizing a rotating lever located beside the driver on a platform. There is a different lever used to control the mast as well as 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 regular forklifts. This is mainly due to the machine's narrow design, which can cause a very high center of gravity. When the load is raised and the mast is fully extended, this is particularly true.