Narrow aisle forklifts
Narrow aisle forklifts are generally used within warehousing applications. These forklifts are important equipments within the industry because their small size and excellent maneuverability allow warehouses to maximize storing space. They could easily negotiate aisles as narrow as 1.8 meters wide, while standard lift trucks require 3.4 meters of aisle width, at least.
This type of forklift is sub-categorized as "narrow aisle forklifts" and "very narrow aisle forklifts". The first need 2.4 meters - 3 meters in aisle width, while the latter can function in a 1.8 meters wide space.
The design of a narrow aisle forklift includes forks positioned at right angles to the truck body. The trucks do not need to face the shelves, but instead drive straight down the aisle picking up loads to the side. This particular design feature is the key to their suitability for limited spaces.
To make sure that the forklift is moving in a straight line down the aisle, some very narrow aisle forklifts consist of optical or wire systems. That way, the operator could concentrate more on the picking and the placement of loads.
The cushion tires that come with these types of lifts are made of solid rubber. The hard tires perform well on concrete floors and paved, smooth surfaces. Narrow aisle forklifts have electric motors that is best utilized within indoor places. Propane-powered models are available as well.