Increase operation productivity in your workplace
In a lot of warehouse and logistic operations, having sufficient transportation vehicles is paramount. Among all vehicles used in such operations, one such would be a reach truck. Including a fleet of reach trucks for your operations is a good idea and can help you with improving your workplace productivity.
What is a reach truck?
A reach truck is a kind of forklift used in narrow aisle applications. They are mostly used in warehouses. Reach trucks are designed to have 2 outer legs. Those 2 outer legs help distribute the load and have a set of wheels in its back. Those wheels are located below the operator which helps create a tighter turn radius.
As it is small in size and designed to access tight spaces, a lot of warehouse companies use reach trucks to improve their operations. As it is small in size, they are more commonly and popularly used to grab and transport items to and from tight or tall places in a warehouse.
How do you improve reach trucks’ productivity in your workplace?
Here are some ways you can help improve reach truck operations and productivity in your workplace.
1. Analyse warehouse floor plans and entry points
The warehouse floorplan is another factor for managers and bosses to consider. The floor type you have will determine the types of machines you can use and work with. If your floor type is rough, then you will be limited to machines that have larger tires. Those kinds of tires will wear quickly with use. It can easily slow operations down and has the possibility of causing stock and equipment damages.
2. Warehouse traffic management
People don’t often think about warehouse traffic management when it comes to operation productivity. However, this is an important aspect for warehouses if you plan on maximizing your warehouse productivity.
Having a drive-through racking is a great idea as it can provide shorter routes for your equipment. It can cut down on time too. Having a solid plan in place and teaching your employees on the operation flows will improve warehouse operations. Allow your employees to exercise efficient movement of goods that can reduce the likelihood of accidents. It can ensure the safety of everyone involved as well as improve your warehouse operations.
3. Regular maintenance is key
Reach trucks break down and it’s a normal thing to do. Having said that, maintaining your reach trucks regularly will keep it running for longer. When a reach truck breaks down, you will lose productivity at the workplace. It can lead to loss of profits.
You will need a maintenance plan in place to make sure that all equipment has regular servicing done. That way you can prevent future breakdowns.
4. Having efficient batteries is a good idea
Having the right and efficient battery for your reach trucks is a good idea too. When you have the right batteries, efficiency in your reach trucks will go to new heights. In some cases, some companies don’t do break charges as it may not be that efficient.
Instead, these companies run the entire battery’s life all shift before doing a charging round. Some companies believe that this is more efficient and saves cost and time. If it works, then it works.
Key Takeaway
Having a fleet of reach trucks around your warehouse is a good idea as it can increase productivity. There is no one forklift that is good for all jobs. Different forklifts have their own uses. A reach truck is one such example.
If you need any forklift services, do reach out to us for any assistance. We would be willing to help.