Lift trucks were first introduced in the start of the 20th Century. They have grown exponentially since the first models. Their original purpose was to transport supplies in an efficient manner. This is still the main 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 equipment are normally used to move pallet trucks over extreme distances, sometimes between storage areas or different departments. There is one more version called the walkie version. This particular model lacks the higher speeds and the operator platform. Low cost and hi maneuverability make these vehicles a great option for operations where frequent load movement is necessary. Some of the common alternatives consist of double pallet length forks which allow you to move 2 pallets in one trip.
Electric Counterbalanced Lift Truck
The Electric Counterbalanced Lift Truck is capable of stacking and racking loads, utilized to move pallet loads, as well as load trailers all over a facility. This type has a huge array of attachments available and should have a wide aisle for turning.
Internal Combustion Counterbalanced Lift Truck
Electric trucks have functionality similar to an IC counterbalanced lift truck. Propane models could be used outdoors or indoors as long as there is adequate ventilation.
Order Selector
There are man-up types of vehicles that are particularly made for hand loading less than pallet load amounts out of and into selective rack. The VNA or also known as very narrow aisle vehicles works in aisles less than six feet wide. These Order Selectors are also called Order Pickers.
Reach Truck
Narrow aisle trucks that are 8 to 11 feet are made particularly for racked pallet storage. Double-deep versions load pallets 2-deep in special double-deep racking systems. These reach trucks are efficient and can make racked pallet storage a more streamlined process.