Lift trucks were initially introduced in the start of the twentieth Century. They have grown exponentially ever since the first models. Their initial purpose was to move materials in an effective way. This is still the main goal. There are an array of different types of lift trucks used in the material handling business.
Motorized Pallet Truck Rider Type
The rider type of lift truck is a motorized kind of the pallet jack. This machinery is commonly utilized to move pallet trucks over extreme distances, including movement between departments or storage areas. There is another version called the walkie version. This particular type lacks the operator platform and the higher speeds. Low cost and hi maneuverability make these vehicles a better option for operations where frequent load movement is required. Some of the common choices include double pallet length forks that allow you to move 2 pallets in a single trip.
Electric Counterbalanced Lift Truck
The Electric Counterbalanced Lift Truck is capable of racking and stacking loads, used to move load trailers, as well as pallet loads throughout a facility. This model has various types of attachments available and needs to have a wide aisle for turning.
Internal Combustion Counterbalanced Lift Truck
IC counterbalance lift trucks operate somewhat like the electric lift truck. Propane models can be used both outdoors or indoors as long as there is ample ventilation.
Order Selector
The order selector has been made to move palleted loads out of and into selective racks. The VNA or also referred to as 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 used 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 very effective and could make racked pallet storage a more streamlined procedure.