In the start of the 20th Century, lift trucks were first introduced. They have come a long way since the very first models. Their original purpose was to transport materials in an effective way. This is still the key objective. There are an array of different types of lift trucks used in the material handling industry.
Motorized Pallet Truck Rider Type
Ride-on lift trucks are motorized versions of pallet jacks. These machines are usually used to move pallet trucks over extreme distances, sometimes between different departments or storage areas. There is one more version known as the walkie version. This model lacks the higher speeds and the operator platform. Low cost and hi maneuverability make these vehicles a great choice for operations where frequent load movement is required. Several of the common choices comprise double pallet length forks that allow you to move 2 pallets in one trip.
Electric Counterbalanced Lift Truck
The Electric Counterbalanced Lift Truck is capable of racking and stacking loads, used to move pallet loads, as well as load trailers throughout a facility. This type has different types of attachments available and must have a wide aisle for turning.
Internal Combustion Counterbalanced Lift Truck
Internal combustion counterbalance lift trucks operate quite like the electric lift truck. Propane models are able to be used indoors or outdoors so long as there is adequate ventilation.
Order Selector
The order selector has been made to move palleted loads into and out of selective racks. The VNA or very narrow aisle vehicles works in aisles less than six feet wide. These Order Selectors are also called Order Pickers.
Reach Truck
The very narrow aisle or narrow aisle lift trucks are utilized mostly for racked pallet storage up to 8 to 11 feet. Double-deep versions load pallets 2-deep in special double-deep racking systems. These reach trucks are really effective and can make racked pallet storage a more streamlined procedure.