Forklifts play a crucial role in the logistics operations of nearly every business. These versatile handling machines come in various shapes and sizes, designed to streamline the movement of palletized goods across different areas of the warehouse.
Selecting the Right Forklift: Key Considerations
When choosing a forklift, consider several factors, as each type is suited for specific warehouse or storage systems. One crucial element is the drive type:
- Internal combustion (diesel, gasoline, or natural gas)
- Electric (lead or lithium batteries)
This aspect is particularly important as it impacts the forklift's operational capabilities within the logistics facility. Electric-powered forklifts are generally used indoors to minimize exposure to exhaust gases for both operators and goods.
Additionally, consider the warehouse layout design, including the distribution of storage systems and aisle widths.
The height capabilities of the forklift are determined by the characteristics of the installed racks and the weight of the goods, as different equipment has varying load capacities. Manufacturers specify the maximum weight each forklift can manage.
Forklifts Tailored to Warehouse Types
The selection of a forklift for your facility largely depends on your storage systems, aisle configurations, and loads to be handled. Various forklift types exist based on their structure and function, including reach trucks, counterbalanced, and trilateral forklifts. Here are some common options according to warehouse type:
- Counterbalanced Forklifts for Pallet Rack Storage
- Reach Trucks for Warehouses with Homogeneous Goods
- Trilateral Forklifts for Warehouses with Heterogeneous Products
- Side Loader Forklifts for Long Loads
- AGV Forklifts for Warehouses with Predefined Flows
- Order Pickers for Order Picking and Consolidation Warehouses
Automation: A Forklift-Free Warehouse?
To maximize efficiency and productivity, warehouses can automate product flows throughout all or part of the facility, depending on the products, layout, and logistics planning strategy. This may involve replacing forklifts and manual storage systems with single- or twin-mast stacker cranes for pallets, capable of operating in one or more aisles based on specific warehouse demands. Additionally, conveyors can be installed in automated warehouses to streamline the transport of goods across different areas.
Conclusion: A Forklift for Every Storage System
Forklifts are essential for transferring pallets from transportation vehicles to various locations within the logistics facility. Choosing the right machines for a specific warehouse depends on factors such as the types of goods being handled and the installed storage systems.