Reach Forklifts
In nearly all distribution centers or warehouse settings, overall space is typically limited. If you can get a machine to use in smaller spaces and aisles, the more storage space a company would be able manage. Thus, specialized equipment has been intended for operating in extremely narrow aisles so that efficiency and space can be maximized.
Reach Trucks
The specific reach lift truck has a mast which extends away from the body of the forklift. It often is attached with a scissor apparatus. When the scissor is drawn in or compacted, the forklift becomes a lot narrower compared to the regular forklift.
Operator Position
The majority of reach trucks are designed so that the operator is standing while utilizing the unit. This is a contrast to the regular lift truck where the operator is normally sitting. The standing operation area reduces the amount of room required for the driver compartment, enabling the equipment to accomplish an even smaller profile overall.
Space Saving
With a reach truck, aisles could be made as narrow as 7 feet. Nearly all regular forklifts need a minimum aisle space of roughly 11 feet; thus, utilizing a reach truck provides approximately a savings of 5 feet per aisle. When the warehouse is leased by the square foot basis, this is a large amount of space.
Unique Controls
Normally, a reach truck is steered utilizing a rotating lever situated 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 compared to standard forklift controls.
Load Capacity
Usually, 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, which could result in a very high center of gravity. When the mast is fully extended and the load is raised, this is particularly true.