Very Narrow Aisle and Narrow Aisle Trucks: Certain forklifts have NA features or VNA features. In order to function efficiently and safely, most counterbalanced trucks need at least 11 feet of aisle width. Na or Narrow Aisle trucks however, could function in narrow aisles which measure 8 to 10 feet wide. In addition, very narrow aisle or VNA trucks can function in aisles as narrow as 6 feet wide.
The benefit of using a VNA and NA truck over a traditional lift is that it makes it possible for warehouses to be constructed with narrower aisles. The wider aisles within the warehouses allow for more storage of products in a particular area, which improves cube use. The loads moved utilizing VNA and NA trucks usually are limited to around 3000 and 5000 pounds. Reach trucks can function in narrow aisle. Rotating mast trucks, order selectors and turret trucks could work within very narrow or narrow aisles, depending on the particular unit.
Reach Trucks: Particularly made for storage and retrieval, reach trucks are made with outriggers and telescoping forks which enables the operator to pick up and retract a load over the outriggers. These models are not the best suited for unloading or loading trucks, nor for transporting loads quickly over long distances. Similar to the order selector, reach trucks can be available for lifting heights which are higher than 30 feet.
Rotating-Mast Trucks and Turret Trucks: Similar to regular sit-down forklifts, rotating mast trucks have masts which are able to rotate in one direction, to a 90 degree angle. This feature enables them to function in a narrow aisle condition. Turret trucks can work in very narrow or narrow aisle places. Similar to order selectors, these machines are capable of elevating both the operator and the cargo. In addition, they are able to allow the operator to deal with loads on either side of an aisle without re-entering and exiting the aisle.
Turret trucks are generally rail or wire guided when they are utilized within very narrow aisles. Therefore, the operator doesn't have to focus any energy on their driving skills and can focus on the work load at hand. Since turret trucks are considered "operator-up" trucks, they are able to be used for case and item picking in addition to full pallet handling.