The Forklift – A Productive History in Innovation

Unbeknownst to many, the powered lift truck has a history dating back over 100 years to the early 1900’s and the railway industry.  Despite differences in technology, the impetus behind this development still drives innovation today as manufacturers continuously develop faster, safer and more efficient means of handling materials.  While changes have occurred on the margins over the last 80 years or so, the defining characteristics of the modern forklift were originally developed during the first 30 years of the 20^th century, with few fundamental changes occurring after the 1930’s.  To better illustrate this point, let’s consider a brief timeline in the history of the forklift:

1906 – The Development of the First Powered Platform Truck

It was in 1906 that the modern materials handling industry truly began to take shape.  Fittingly, the roots of the industry began in supply chain logistics with an adapted platform truck at a rail yard in Pennsylvania.  In order to efficiently handle baggage and loads, a railroad official decided to add a battery to a 4-wheel baggage cart, thus creating the first powered platform truck (which, as forklift123’s blog points out, makes the forklift older than sliced bread!).  What followed was the birth of an industry as rapid innovation lead to more complicated and efficient machines. 

1915 – The First Modern Lift Truck

Less than 10 years later, increased demand for efficiency during WWI resulted in the combination of the horizontal capabilities of the powered baggage cart with the vertical lifting power of the portable elevator.  When a power source was added two years later in 1915, the modern lift truck was born.  Similar in operation to a modern pallet truck, these lift trucks used an extended platform, which could be driven beneath a load, to lift and transport loads.  

1919 – The Introduction of the Cantilever and Forks

Shortly after the end of WWI, the modern forklift truly began taking shape with the introduction of the cantilevered forklift and front mounted forks.  With the addition of the cantilever, forklifts were capable of approaching a load directly from the front without requiring additional clearance for protruding front wheels.  Meanwhile, the introduction of forks and rams expanded the types of loads that could be handled. 

1920’s – The Final Touches

From 1920 through 1929, the fundamental form of the modern forklift was more or less completed.  Here, the final form forklift truly took shape with the shortening of the wheelbase through the rearrangement of the counterweight and operator’s cabin to the center of the forklift.  This innovation improved the stability of the forklift by moving the heaviest component of the forklift to the rear of the vehicle and at a maximum distance from the fulcrum and paved the way for the introduction of the independently tilting mast.  

By the end of the 1920’s, the basic form of the modern forklift was set.  After this point, few changes occurred to this basic form.  Instead, changes occurred at the margins to expand the versatility of the forklift.  At Stärke, we’re proud to take up the mantle of innovation, always introducing products with an eye towards efficiency.  And, with a full line of material handling products from Class II through Class VI, we take advantage of the full history of the forklift, truly a history of productive innovation.

What's next for the forklift?  Where do you think the industry is headed?  Leave a comment below and join the conversation!

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www.starkeforklift.com

Local: (905)-227-7554  |  Toll free: 1-877-435-4352

Easy to Implement Warehouse Optimization Tips

Generally speaking, it's not easy to achieve a high level of productivity in a warehouse.  One way to approach such a goal, however, is to implement measures that encourage a consistent level of focus and organization throughout your operation.  By doing so, your operation will be more productive, less costly, and provide a better working environment for employees and management alike.

Reduce Error Rates

An operation that suffers from high error rates is bound to suffer from lower productivity levels and excessive labor costs.  To help eliminate these issues, accurately track frequent errors, inform employees about which mistakes are made most frequently, and provide the training necessary to avoid those mistake in the future.  To encourage commitment and accountability, you can offer an incentive by posting a monthly commendation for employees who commit the fewest errors each month.

Promote a Clean and Tidy Workspace

Having a dirty and disorganized warehouse is not only bothersome, but it also reduces productivity and presents a safety hazard.  The first step to maintaining a clean warehouse is ensure all the necessary tools and equipment are easily available to all employees.  Be sure to take a quick stock of your cleaning supplies and make sure these are readily available when needed.  Potential cleaning supplies include mops, sweepers/brooms, cleaning supplies, squeegees, oil cleanup kits, and trash bins. 

Next, make sure each employee is aware of their individual responsibilities and encourage them to take ownership and accountability for their area of responsibility.  You can take this a step further by posting a monthly list of cleanliness awards, given out to those employees that demonstrate an exceptional commitment to their cleaning duties.  Finally, be sure to review the overall importance of maintaining a clean working environment with all employees so that they understand the benefits and dangers associated with their responsibilities.

Facilitate Organization

Without the proper organization, a warehouse operation are likely to become chaotic and counterproductive, so it’s important that all employees know where and when they should be at all times.  Begin this process by posting proper signage throughout your warehouse to help pedestrian and equipment operators navigate the warehouse in a safe and efficient manner.  Clearly labeling and assigning designated paths for pedestrians and equipment helps to streamline the flow of products and people, thereby eliminating potential safety hazards and increasing productivity. 

Thank you for reading my blog. Please remember to +1, like, share, comment and follow if you enjoyed this post!

www.starkeforklift.com

Local: (905)-227-7554  |  Toll free: 1-877-435-4352