Narrow Aisle Operations

Selecting a lift truck is a complicated and intensive process. With an overwhelming number of models and optional features, it is important to carefully consider what unit is best suited to your needs and material handling application. This process can be particularly difficult in warehousing and logistics, where lift trucks must not only perform all the necessary tasks, but also conform to the aisle widths and racking configuration as well. 

While standard warehouse operations generally accommodate most 3,000 – 5,000 lb. counterbalance forklifts, it is a mistake to assume that these models are suited for all warehousing applications. One of the primary concerns here is the turning radius of the forklift in relation to the width of the facilities aisles.  The minimum width required for most sit down counterbalanced forklift models, for example, is eleven (11) feet (although the exact width required for each model depend on its overall dimensions, turning radius and load sizes). 

In narrow aisle operations, where aisles typically range from six (6) to ten (10) feet in width, counterbalanced forklifts are often replaced with specialized vehicles like walkie and rider reach trucks. By replacing the large counterbalance weight found in standard forklifts with compact outriggers, which reduces the size of the unit and increases its maneuverability, reach trucks are uniquely suited to narrow aisle operations.

Since reach trucks must compensate for the added distance between the racking system and the truck caused by the stabilizing outriggers, reach trucks utilize a telescoping arm that extends to reach the storage racking. Depending on the depth of the storage system, reach trucks are available in either a standard single reach model, or as a double reach model to accommodate two pallet deep storage options.

At Stärke, our LiftMaxx line of reach trucks is available with a wide variety of options and features designed to meet a range of applications. For low volume applications, Stärke offers a line of 3,000 lb. walkie reach trucks in single or double reach model with maximum lift heights of up to 217”. For high volume operations, Stärke also offers a rider reach truck from 3,000 to 4,000 lbs. in capacity. Available with either a 2-stage or a 3-stage mast, Stärke’s rider reach truck is capable of lift heights from 118” to 255”.

For more information on narrow aisle operations or our series of reach trucks, please check out our product video on YouTube or visit us online at www.starkecanada.com or www.starkeusa.com. Alternatively, you may contact us via email at info@starkeforklift.com or on our toll free line at 1-877-435-4352. Stärke Material Handling Group... Stärke is Strength.

www.starkecanada.com | www.starkeusa.com   

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

Application Details When Choosing Your Materials Handling Equipment

It's not always enough to recommend a piece of materials handling equipment to a client based on sales experience alone. Often the client will want a detailed explanation as to why they would require one product over another. Why would they need a forklift when a stacker truck might suffice? Perhaps the reason is repetition, or weight restrictions. Maybe it's ergonomics to assist in lowering the company's injury claims. It could be that the batteries are meant for a short run time whereas others are meant for a full shift(s) between charges. Tire types also come into play i.e. pneumatic VS rubber VS poly. It might just come down to dollars and cents.

Regardless the specifics in your application, there are many factors that will be weighed when choosing the correct piece of equipment for the job.

Stärkehas recently included detailed dialogue to assist in making a more educateddecision on what truck makes the most sense in a specific application. These details are to be discussed with your sales person, but will offer a deeper understanding of when one machine should be utilized over another.

For example: you wouldn't prefer a manual pump truck to unload a full trailer several times a day and cart the skids through a large warehouse just because it is the most economical option. That would cost you time, employee moral, undue wear on a unit not built to sustain that kind of abuse, and potentially claims with WSIB. 

There are many factors to consider, and each industry and individual warehouse or factory has their own combination. To get started, look at what Stärke has put together and don't make any decisions until you've spoken to an authorized Stärke sales person. Because it makes sense to expect peace of mind at a fair price.