Narrow aisle forklifts
Commonly used within warehouse operations is the Narrow Aisle Forklift. These kinds of forklifts are important machines in the industry because their extreme maneuverability and small size allow warehouses to use space to maximum storing capacity. They can easily go around aisles as narrow as 1.8 meters wide, whereas standard lift trucks require 3.4 meters of aisle width, at least.
The two kinds are "narrow aisle forklift" and the "very narrow aisle forklift". The former need 2.4 meters - 3 meters in aisle width, while the second can function in a 1.8 meters wide space.
The narrow aisle forklift design features forks which are 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 design feature is the key to their suitability for tight spaces.
Several very narrow aisle forklifts come with wire or optical guidance systems which make certain that the forklift moves in a straight line down the aisle, that leaves the operator free to concentrate on load placement and picking.
These types of lifts are outfitted with cushion tires made from solid rubber. The hard tires perform well on concrete floors and smooth, paved surfaces. Narrow aisle forklifts have electric motors suited for applications within indoor places. Propane-powered models are available too.