There are a few criteria that you should consider before choosing a forklift that suits your warehouse needs. In this article, we will be diving deeper into the most common forklift used in a warehouse.
We have previously discussed the different types of forklifts that exist in this current day and age. Given the huge variety of forklifts, it is no wonder that people get confused about which forklifts would be most suited for their warehouse.
So without further ado, let’s find out more about the most common forklift used in a warehouse.
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Warehouse Forklift
As its name suggests, the warehouse forklift is made for warehouse use. With the capacity to carry up to 5 tons depending on the model. This forklift model is probably the most common forklift used in a warehouse. With its signature golf cart-like vehicle with two prongs at the bottom, this forklift is probably one of the most commonly seen forklifts as well.
This type of forklift is usually used to move and lift items on a short distance.
Pedestrian Operated Forklift
The pedestrian operated forklift is known for its efficiency as it is a smaller size than that of other forklifts. This model is also one of the most common forklift used in a warehouse. It is efficient to move the items that are placed at a lower level. This type of forklift is good for those who are not looking to carry heavy items.
Electric Reach Truck
The electric reach truck is perfect for warehouses with narrow isles. As its name suggests, the electric reach truck is perfect for reaching tall racks and it could also lift up to 4,500lbs although the maximum weight might vary depending on the models and brands. This model of forklift is specially made to go through narrow isles.
The wheels of the forklifts are placed directly below the operator so that the forklift operator would be able to make sharper turns in smaller spaces. The forks of the forklifts are also made to reach tall shelves and carry quite a load so you would be able to store your materials on high shelves using the electric reach truck.
Order Picker Truck
An order picker forklift is meant to help operators pick up the wanted items from high shelves or items that are placed at an unreachable height. The order picker might look similar to the electric reach truck and both are for reaching places that are at a higher level. However, the two forklifts operate very differently.
The electric reach truck is meant to put things in place, so only the prongs of the forklift could move upwards to reach items. The order picker truck is meant to find and retrieve things. The operator would be lifted up to retrieve the items. This is more suitable for items that are lighter and not as heavy for the operators to be able to retrieve with ease.
Side Loader Forklift
The side loader forklift is a type of forklift that is similar to the warehouse forklifts. This type of forklift is suitable for lifting bigger and bulkier materials such as pipes and timber. Just like most types of common forklifts used in warehouses, the side loader is suitable for moving these bulky materials in narrow isles.
Industrial Forklift
If you have a bigger warehouse that stores heavy and bulky materials, the industrial forklift would be perfect for heavy loading. The industrial forklift is a hybrid of a warehouse forklift and a telehandler. However, it is meant for much heavier work and is able to lift higher off the ground than a regular warehouse forklift.
Despite its seemingly powerful capabilities, the industrial forklift is not as commonly used as other warehouse forklifts because it can only be used on occasions where a bulkier material needs to be shifted. Therefore, the industrial forklift is not as commonly used.
These are the few most common forklift used in a warehouse. As you can see there is a wide variety of models and brands of forklifts. To understand more about the forklift that would suit your needs, head over to Forklift4s where our professional forklift consultants would guide you based on your needs.
If purchasing a forklift is too big of a commitment, you can also rent a forklift. Remember, having a forklift also requires daily checks and maintenance. Hence, it is recommended to always invest in high-quality spare parts and hire trustworthy maintenance.