High-reach forklifts are changing the way we warehouse by maximising vertical storage and productivity. These special machines lift and move heavy loads to high levels, they are a must have in modern distribution centres and warehouses. This article looks at the capabilities, benefits and applications of high-reach forklifts and how they can help optimise warehouse efficiency and safety.
Forklifts
What is a Forklift?
A forklift is a type of truck, commonly used in warehouses and distribution centres to lift and move materials over short distances, especially in tight spaces. These powerful machines are a powered, wheeled industrial truck with a mast and forks to lift loads. The operator controls the forklift to move goods efficiently, it’s an essential tool for handling heavy loads and maximising productivity in the warehouse.
Types of Forklifts
There are many types of forklifts, each for a specific application. The choice of forklift depends on lift capacity, lift height and available storage space. Knowing the different types of forklifts, including those designed to lift to high elevations, will help you choose the right machine for your business.
Forklift Type Typical Application Traditional Counterbalance Forklifts General warehouse tasks High-Reach Forklifts (e.g., Stand-up Pantograph Reach Trucks, Sit-on Moving Mast Reach Trucks) Narrow aisle environments
Forklifts in Warehousing
Forklifts are essential in warehousing for efficiency and safety. They enable efficient lifting and moving of goods, maximise the use of vertical storage space by accessing high shelves. By using the right type of forklift, such as a high-reach forklift for narrow aisles, warehouses can optimise their operations, increase throughput and reduce handling times. Forklifts are designed to improve productivity and streamline processes in distribution centres and warehouses.
High Reach Forklifts
What are High Reach Forklifts?
High reach forklifts lift heavy loads to heights that traditional counterbalance forklifts can’t reach, making them essential in warehouses that maximise vertical storage space. These types of forklifts are used in warehouses with high rack systems, as they can reach high shelves that traditional forklifts can’t. The main purpose of a high reach forklift is to lift and move goods efficiently in narrower aisles.
Benefits of High Reach Forklifts
The benefits of high reach forklifts are many, mainly around warehouse space and productivity, especially in tight spaces. These forklifts lift heavy loads to high shelves, maximise vertical storage. They can operate in narrow aisles so you can store more densely, reducing space. The efficiency gains from using a high reach forklift can reduce handling times and increase productivity even more.
Applications in Warehousing
High reach forklifts are used in warehouses for many applications. They are mainly used in facilities that need to maximise vertical space by lifting pallets onto high rack systems. They are also designed to operate in tight spaces, making them ideal for warehouses where space is tight. The operator can quickly and safely lift and move goods to high elevations, enhancing overall efficiency and safety.
High Reach Trucks vs Other Forklifts
High Reach Trucks vs Counterbalance Forklifts
High reach forklifts and traditional counterbalance forklifts are very different in design and application. Counterbalance forklifts have weight in the back to offset the load being lifted, they are stable but not suitable for narrow aisles. High reach forklifts are designed to operate in narrow aisles and reach high levels. The type of forklift is chosen based on the warehouse layout and the ability to operate in tight spaces to maximise vertical storage.
High Reach vs Reach Trucks
Both high reach forklifts and reach trucks operate in narrow aisles but there are key differences. High reach forklifts are better in environments where high shelves need to be reached. Stand-up pantograph reach trucks and sit-on moving mast reach trucks are types of high reach forklifts that further enhance manoeuvrability.
Feature Reach Trucks Lifting Height High reach forklifts can lift loads to higher heights.
Choose the Right Forklift for Your Business
Selecting the right type of forklift for your business requires careful consideration of many factors. Evaluate the lift capacity and lift height needed for your operations. Consider the aisle width in your warehouse and whether you need a forklift that can operate in narrow aisles. Safety features, operator comfort, and maintenance requirements are also important when deciding the best forklifts are ideal for your business.
Priority Forklift Type Vertical Storage High Reach Forklift
Productivity with High Reach Forklifts
Space Saving
High reach forklifts are designed to save space in warehouses, they are a must have in modern distribution centres. They lift heavy loads to high elevations, heights that counterbalance forklifts can’t reach, ensuring efficient storage. By using high reach forklifts you can increase storage capacity without expanding your footprint.
Productivity
The benefits of high reach forklifts go beyond space saving; they also increase operational efficiency. These forklifts are designed to operate in narrow aisles, reducing the aisle width for forklift maneuvering. The operator can lift and move goods faster and more efficiently, overall productivity in the warehouse. High reach forklifts are used to streamline processes and reduce handling times, particularly in warehouse aisles.
Training and Safety
Proper training is essential for safe operation of high reach forklifts. Operators need to be trained on the specific controls and safety features of these forklifts. Make sure operators understand how to safely lift and move heavy loads at high elevations and in narrow warehouse aisles. Follow strict safety protocols to prevent accidents and ensure a safe working environment in the warehouse.
High Reach Forklift Future
Technology
Technology will further improve high reach forklifts designed to lift heavy loads efficiently. Automation and integration with warehouse management systems (WMS) will increase efficiency and accuracy. Expect to see more advanced sensors, navigation systems and ergonomic improvements that will help the operator, making these forklifts even more versatile and essential in the warehouse.
Environment
Environmental considerations are becoming more important in forklift design and operation. The demand for electric high reach forklifts is growing, driven by the need to reduce emissions and be more sustainable. Electric high reach forklifts offer lower operating costs and reduced noise pollution, making them an environmentally friendly option for modern warehouses and distribution centres.
Warehousing and Forklift Technology Future
Warehousing and forklift technology go hand in hand. As warehouses save space and operate in narrow aisles, high reach forklifts will be more important. Battery, automation and safety innovations will make high reach forklifts even more essential in the warehouse.