Tips for Buying a Reach Truck

Written by: Steven Bryan

When moving inventory around a crowded warehouse, your employees need the right kind of equipment. If your storage facilities have especially narrow aisles, a reach truck could be a valuable asset to your company.

Features and considerations

Unlike a traditional forklift, a reach truck is operated from a standing position. Not all reach trucks are created the same, so keep the following things in mind when shopping around:

• Operator comfort. Since employees are working on their feet for long periods of time, comfort is a top concern. Look for features such as a cushioned floor, reliable shock absorbers, and ergonomic controls that help eliminate repetitive stress injuries.
• Load/height limits. Reach trucks have a maximum load capacity, which should be large enough to handle your current and future warehouse needs. It's also important to make sure that the truck can lift a load to a high storage spot.
• Warehouse environment. If you want to move products around a cold storage facility, you need a truck that can handle extreme variants in temperature.
• Visibility. To avoid accidents, the operator needs to have a clear, unobstructed view of the load they are carrying. Take a good hard look at the control area to make sure your employees can easily see what they're lifting.
• Speed/handling. Your employees should be able to work quickly and efficiently when operating a reach truck. When speaking with a sales representative, ask about the top operating speed and how easily the operator can change direction.
• Training. A good manufacturer should be able to train your employees in the safe usage of this type of heavy equipment.
• Warranty/maintenance. Buying a reach truck is a lot like buying a new car. You will need to know how much parts, service, and regular maintenance are going to cost your company in the long run.

Electric reach trucks

Instead of gasoline or diesel fuel, electricity has become the power source of choice, especially in enclosed warehouses. Electric reach trucks also have motors that make less noise, which your employees should appreciate. For maximum efficiency, you will need to set up charging stations within your storage facility and invest in extra batteries.

Since you'll pay a premium for the benefits of electric-powered trucks, it's often wise to seek used electric reach trucks. This can save a lot of money for your business, provided you find a quality unit that hasn't been run into the ground. Look for a reliable dealer who ensures that each used electric reach truck is carefully reconditioned with new replacement parts and a fresh coat of paint. Also, make sure they stand behind their product with a warranty that protects your purchase for a minimum of 30 days.

Ready to purchase a reach truck? BuyerZone's forklift dealers can provide free customized price quotes so you can make an informed decision for your business.