Running a warehouse efficiently requires the use of a reach truck. These specialized forklifts are designed to operate in narrow aisles and are essential for stacking and retrieving pallets at different heights. Currently, there are a plethora of brands offering reach truck models, each with its own set of features. Selecting the ideal one that suits your specific operational needs and usage requirements can be a daunting task.
This article offers detailed guidance on factors to consider when choosing the best reach truck. It aims to help you make an informed decision and improve warehouse efficiency.
What Is a Reach Truck?
A reach truck is a type of forklift commonly used in narrow aisle applications like warehouses. It features two outer legs that help distribute the load weight and a single set of wheels in the back positioned directly beneath the driver to create a tighter turn radius. This design facilitates maneuvering in smaller spaces while providing excellent flexibility in storing and retrieving pallets at elevated heights.
The reach truck is extensively used for material handling in storage warehouses and cold storage units with multiple racking systems. It comes in various configurations to suit different warehouse setups and applications.
What Are the Features to Look for in a Reach Truck?
Reach trucks are considered a valuable and sound investment outfitted with essential features including:
- Load Capacity: This indicates the maximum weight the truck can safely lift and carry. When selecting a reach truck, ensure that the loading capacity is equal to or greater than the heaviest pallets you intend to transport. Undersizing could lead to equipment damage or accidents, whereas oversizing can incur unnecessary costs.
- Lift Height: This refers to the peak vertical distance to which the reach truck's forks can reach. It is crucial to choose a truck with a lift height that matches the tallest racks in your warehouse.
- Fuel Type: Reach trucks typically run on electricity, but some models may use different types of batteries or fuel cells. The choice of fuel type can affect the truck's performance, environmental footprint, and operational costs.
- Noise and Emissions: In line with fuel type, noise, and emissions are important features to consider, especially for indoor operations. Electric reach trucks offer the advantage of being quieter and cleaner. This contributes to a better working environment and complies with strict environmental regulations.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Reach Truck
When looking for a reach truck for a warehouse project, ensure that the lift you choose is capable of meeting your requirements. Here are some considerations to keep in mind during your search:
- Aisle Width: Ensure that the reach truck model you select can operate effectively within the confines of your narrow aisles. This includes the ability to maneuver and safely handle loads without the risk of damage to the storage racks or the truck itself.
- Rack Height: You need a reach truck that can comfortably reach the top racks without strain. Additionally, ensure there’s ample clearance above the topmost rack to maneuver loads safely without hitting the ceiling or any overhead obstructions.
- Maximum Load Weight: When selecting a reach truck, consider the maximum load weight that each racking level can bear. This ensures that the truck's lifting capacity aligns with the demands of the storage setup, providing safe and efficient handling.
Our Reach Truck Models at Yaletrak
Yaletrak is a recognized name in the material handling industry, known for producing robust and reliable reach trucks suited for a variety of warehouse conditions. Check out some of our models and their features.
Model: (RT) NDR
The Yaletrak NDR series is designed and manufactured to be among the most dependable trucks in the industry today. Boasting a load capacity of 1,350kg to 2,000kg, this line caters to operations that require heavy-duty performance in demanding environments.
Yaletrak’s NDR Reach Trucks have the following features:
- Heavy Duty Frame: The NDR series features thick steel plating for durability. It also has a fixed drive unit with a spring-loaded caster assembly for a smooth ride over uneven surfaces.
- O-ring Face Seals: These are featured on all high-pressure hydraulic connections to help minimize hydraulic leaks.
- Pantograph: This reach truck model undergoes finite element analysis for robustness. It also features a reinforced rear frame and inner arm weldments for longevity.
- Mast Rigidity: The NDR is designed with wear strips and brass wear plugs to reduce wear and downtime.
- More Power AC Drive Motor: The AC drive motor delivers enhanced power, with its motor controller mounted on finned aluminum heat sinks for efficient cooling.
- Power Lowering: This feature helps increase operator productivity, as the motor actively drives the load downward when unloaded to optimize the speed of descent.
- Regenerative Lowering: When lowering with a load, the motor generates power through regenerative braking, putting energy back into the battery and increasing battering shift life.
Model: (RT) MR
The MR series provides top-of-the-line components, higher travel speed for long distances and lower speeds for precise load handling. These trucks have a load capacity ranging from 1,400kg to 2,500kg. They are engineered for performance and operator comfort.
Yaletrak’s MR Reach Trucks have the following features:
- Heavy-duty, High Capacity Mast: The MR series has a sturdy mast design that ensures high residual capacities and stable load handling, enabling quicker put-away and retrieval.
- Energy efficient: MR Reach Trucks have an ECO-eLo mode that reduces engine speed, optimizing fuel efficiency and potentially cutting energy consumption by up to 20%, depending on the application.
- Rapid transport of loads: The MR series offers maximum travel speeds up to 8.7 mph, mast speeds of 143 fpm, and mast lifting heights up to 502 inches, allowing it to move more loads per hour.
- Extendable fork positioning: MR trucks have optional hydraulically-operated, extendable forks that increase storage density by up to 30%. This provides operational flexibility in different warehouse areas.
- Long service intervals: Its service intervals last up to 3,000-hour hydraulic oil and filter changes and 7,500-hour transmission oil changes. It is also designed for easy servicing with a 3-piece build, swing-open door, and fast-release floor plate.
- Ergonomic controls: The MR series features a push-button 360° steering for precise control, with an optional joystick and standard Accutouch mini-lever module for operator convenience.
Final Thoughts
When selecting the ideal lift truck for your business, partnering with the right provider is crucial. Yaletrak stands as a trusted reach truck supplier in the Philippines. We offer a diverse range of forklift models, including the NDR and FBR series, tailored to meet your specific needs.
With robust designs, advanced features, and reliable dealer support, Yaletrak reach trucks are a smart investment for any warehouse. Optimize your material handling processes today! Reach out to us at 0917 706 8220 or via email at info@yaletrakph.com to learn more.