Narrow aisle forklifts
Commonly utilized in warehouse applications is the Narrow Aisle Forklift. These forklifts are essential tools within the industry because their small size and extreme maneuverability enable warehouses to utilize space to maximum storing capacity. They could easily pass aisles that are 1.8 meters wide, whereas standard lift trucks require at least 3.4 meters of aisle width.
This particular kind of forklift is sub-categorized as "narrow aisle forklifts" and "very narrow aisle forklifts". The former require 2.4 meters - 3 meters in aisle width, whereas the latter could function in a 1.8 meters wide space.
The design of the narrow aisle forklift features forks that are positioned at right angles to the truck body. The trucks do not have to face the shelves, but instead drive straight down the aisle picking up loads to the side. This 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, several very narrow aisle forklifts comprise optical or wire systems. That way, the operator could concentrate more on the placement and the picking of loads.
The cushion tires that come with these kinds 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 suited for use in indoor environments. Propane-powered versions are available too.