Materials Handling Equipment Explained – Part 3

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Beside forklifts, the operators can use other material handling machines for completing different warehousing tasks. One alternative to the forklift is the hand pallet truck. The pallet jacks, or pallet trucks, come in different varieties and with different capacities. The walkie pallet jacks, ride on pallet jacks and stackers are the most popular hand pallet truck types. If you are dealing with lighter loads, the electrically powered walkie jack is the ideal solution. Operating a walkie pallet jack is very easy and simple. By walking behind the machine, you can place the forks under a pallet and lift the pallet by pressing the handle at the front. This machine is not capable to travel at high speed nor to lift loads on high locations. However, it offers many advantages in terms of efficiency and better work flow. The walkie pallet jack is widely used in warehouses, manufacturing and distribution facilities.

The hand pallet truck is the one of the oldest and the most commonly used material handling machines. The hand pallet truck is used for picking and transporting loads from one to another location. As a hand operated machine, the hand pallet truck may not have the same abilities as the forklift, but it is the simplest and most efficient solution for loading and unloading pallets in smaller indoor environments. Also, it is a cost-efficient solution for various warehousing tasks. But, you should have in mind that the hand pallet truck can move only on smooth surfaces. If the hand pallet truck seems like the best choice for you, consider all the varieties that can be found on the market.

If you are looking for a material handler that is capable to move through narrow aisles, choose the narrow aisle forklift truck. As a tall and stand-up machine, the narrow aisle forklift truck is specifically designed for warehouse applications. Stand up means that you will need to stand all the time while operating the unit. The main use of the narrow aisle forklift is to place and arrange products on high racks in a warehouse. It is not designed to be used for loading trucks as many other material handling machines. The main advantage of this machine is the ability to operate between racks.

Another similar machine is the narrow aisle reach truck. The narrow aisle reach truck is a type of forklift that is capable to operate in narrow aisles and to reach incredible heights. It is equipped with photograph forks, which can be extended for greater outreach. The narrow aisles reach truck forklift is extensively used for placing loads high on pallet racks.