If you work in a warehouse or industrial setting, you are likely familiar with forklifts. These machines are essential for moving heavy loads and materials around the workspace. However, not all forklifts are created equal. High reach forklifts are a specific type of forklift designed for accessing high shelves and racking systems. In this article, Liftwise will explore the topic of high reach forklifts, including their technical specifications, operational considerations, and how to choose the right one for your needs.
High reach forklifts are designed to safely and efficiently lift and retrieve loads from extreme heights that traditional counterbalance forklifts or order pickers are unable to access. They are commonly used in warehouses, distribution centers, and other industrial settings where space is at a premium, and vertical storage is required. High reach forklifts can reach heights of up to 12 meters, making them an ideal solution for businesses with high ceilings or tall storage racks.
When operating a high reach forklift, there are several operational considerations to keep in mind. These machines require specialized training and certification to operate safely. Operators must be aware of the forklift’s weight capacity, lift height, and stability. Additionally, high reach forklifts operate differently than traditional forklifts, and operators must be trained on their specific functions and features.
Key Takeaways
- High reach forklifts are designed for accessing high shelves and racking systems.
- These machines can reach heights of up to 12 meters, making them ideal for businesses with high ceilings or tall storage racks.
- High reach forklifts require specialized training and certification to operate safely.
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Get A Quote NowUnderstanding High Reach Forklifts
If you are looking for a forklift that can lift and retrieve loads from extreme heights, a high reach forklift is the perfect solution for you. High reach forklifts are designed to safely and efficiently lift and retrieve loads from heights that traditional forklifts or order pickers are unable to access.
Types of High Reach Forklifts
High reach forklifts come in two configurations: sit-on moving mast reach trucks and stand-up pantograph reach trucks. Sit-on moving mast reach trucks are ideal for narrow aisles ranging from 2800mm to 3400mm wide. They are equipped with a mast that reaches out, with lift heights of up to 13 metres. Stand-up pantograph reach trucks are designed for even narrower aisles and have pantograph arms that extend to reach high shelves.
Key Features and Benefits
High reach forklifts offer several key features and benefits that make them ideal for warehouses and distribution centres. These include:
Performance: High reach forklifts are designed to lift and retrieve loads from extreme heights with ease. They are also capable of operating in narrow aisles, making them ideal for warehouses and distribution centres.
Capacity: High reach forklifts can lift heavy loads with ease, making them ideal for large warehouses and distribution centres.
Safety: High reach forklifts are equipped with advanced safety features, such as load sensors, to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of operators and other workers.
Ergonomic design: High reach forklifts are designed with ergonomic features to ensure the comfort and safety of operators. These features include adjustable seats, easy-to-use controls, and ergonomic handles.
Advanced technology: High reach forklifts are equipped with advanced technology, such as GPS tracking and remote diagnostics, to ensure maximum efficiency and productivity.
Operational Considerations
When it comes to operating high reach forklifts, there are several considerations you need to keep in mind. These considerations include space optimisation, safety, and training requirements in Australia.
Space Optimisation
One of the main benefits of high reach forklifts is that they allow for space optimisation in the warehouse. With the ability to lift loads to greater heights, high reach forklifts can help maximise storage space in your warehouse. This is particularly useful in settings where there is a need to reduce aisle width between racking to store and retrieve goods from high elevations up to 13 metres high.
Safety and Training Requirements in Australia
It is important to note that high reach forklifts can be dangerous if not operated correctly. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that all operators are trained and certified to operate high reach forklifts safely. In Australia, the law requires that all operators of high reach forklifts hold a valid High Risk Work (HRW) license.
In addition to certification, it is important to follow safety guidelines when operating high reach forklifts. This includes ensuring that the forklift is in good working condition, properly maintained, and inspected regularly. It is also important to make sure that the warehouse is equipped with proper racking and shelving systems that can support the weight of the loads being lifted by the forklift.
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Get A Quote NowTechnical Specifications
When it comes to high reach forklifts, there are a few technical specifications to keep in mind. In this section, we will discuss the lift capacity and height, as well as the power and performance of these machines.
Lift Capacity and Height
High reach forklifts are designed to lift loads to higher elevations in narrow aisles, typically in warehouse settings. The lift height of these machines can range from 8 metres to 13 metres, depending on the model. The lift capacity of high reach forklifts can vary as well, with some models able to lift up to 2.5 tonnes of weight.
When considering the lift capacity and height of a high reach forklift, it is important to keep in mind the specific needs of your business. If you need to lift heavy loads to high elevations, you may need a machine with a higher lift capacity and height.
Power and Performance
High reach forklifts are powered by either electricity or diesel. Electric high reach forklifts are ideal for indoor use, as they produce zero emissions and are quieter than diesel models. Diesel high reach forklifts, on the other hand, are better suited for outdoor use and can handle rough terrain.
In terms of performance, high reach forklifts can be equipped with various features to improve efficiency and safety. Some models have regenerative braking, which helps to conserve energy and reduce wear and tear on the brakes. Others have pantograph or moving mast designs, which allow for greater flexibility and reach in tight spaces.
Choosing the Right High Reach Forklift
When it comes to choosing the right high reach forklift for your business, there are several factors to consider. In this section, we will discuss the selection criteria and the productivity and business impact of high reach forklifts.
Selection Criteria
The selection of a high reach forklift is critical to ensure that you get the right equipment for your business needs. Here are some factors to consider when making your selection:
Capacity: The capacity of the forklift should be based on the weight of the loads you need to lift.
Footprint: The footprint of the forklift should be small enough to navigate your warehouse aisles, but large enough to provide stability when lifting heavy loads.
Very Narrow Aisle: If you have a very narrow aisle warehouse, you may need a specialized high reach forklift that can navigate the tight spaces.
Premium: If you are looking for a premium high reach forklift, you should consider the features that are important to your business, such as mast-mounted CCTV cameras, cold store cabs, additional hydraulic circuits for attachments, and heated seats.
Productivity and Business Impact
High reach forklifts can have a significant impact on your business productivity. Here are some ways that a high reach forklift can improve your business results:
Increased efficiency: High reach forklifts can navigate narrow aisles and lift heavy loads, which can increase the efficiency of your warehouse operations.
Reduced labor costs: High reach forklifts can reduce the need for manual labor, which can lower your labor costs.
Improved safety: High reach forklifts are designed with safety features that can reduce the risk of accidents and injuries in the workplace.
Increased storage capacity: High reach forklifts can lift loads to higher elevations, which can increase your warehouse storage capacity.
In conclusion, choosing the right high reach forklift is critical to ensure that you get the equipment you need to improve your business productivity. By considering the selection criteria and the productivity and business impact of high reach forklifts, you can make an informed decision that will benefit your business.
Frequently Asked Questions
A high reach forklift is designed to lift and retrieve loads from extreme heights that traditional counterbalance forklifts or order pickers are unable to access. It is a narrow aisle type of forklift that works in narrower aisles ranging from 2800mm to 3400mm wide and is equipped with a mast that reaches out, with lift heights of up to 13 metres. High reach forklifts are ideal for warehouse operations that require the storage of goods in high-density racking.
A high reach forklift has a higher lifting capacity than standard models, making it ideal for lifting and moving heavy loads in narrow aisles. Depending on your needs, various forklifts can lift between 3m and 10m. The heavier the load being lifted, the lower the lift. The largest forklift that is currently available has a 25-tonne lifting capacity.
A reach truck and a high reach forklift are both narrow aisle forklifts, but they have some key differences. A reach truck is designed for use in narrow aisles and has a sliding mast that allows the forks to extend forward and reach into the racking. A high reach forklift, on the other hand, has a mast that extends forward and upward, allowing it to lift and retrieve loads from extreme heights that traditional counterbalance forklifts or order pickers are unable to access.
When operating a high reach forklift, it is essential to follow all safety guidelines and procedures. This includes wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, such as a hard hat and safety shoes. It is also important to ensure that the forklift is properly maintained and inspected regularly. Additionally, operators should receive proper training and certification before operating a high reach forklift.
