Narrow aisle forklifts: space-savers for warehousing

Jeremy Sacco
BuyerZone.com Editorial Staff

Narrow aisle forklifts are essential to modern warehousing operations. By allowing aisle widths as narrow as 6 feet, they greatly increase the number of aisles that can fit in a given warehouse, and that, in turn, increases warehouse capacity.

Standard lift trucks need aisles that are 11' wide or larger to be able to operate and turn around. Narrow aisle forklifts (NA) are capable of operating in aisles 8' to 10' wide; and very narrow aisle forklifts (VNAs) can work in aisles as little as 6' wide. Note that "narrow aisle forklift" and "very narrow aisle forklift" are industry-standard terms, not just descriptions.

The key aspect of narrow aisle forklifts is that their forks are turned at a right angle tothe body of the truck. This allows them to drive straight down the aisle but pick up loads to the side. By eliminating the need to have the truck face the shelves, they greatly reduce their space requirements.

Since they often operate with little margin for error, very narrow aisle forklifts are available with guidance systems. Optical or wire guidance systems that run the length of the aisle keep the forklift on a consistently straight path, allowing the operator to focus on picking and placing loads.

Narrow aisle forklifts are almost all electric powered, since they're used indoors, although some propane-powered models are available. They also feature cushion tires - smooth, solid rubber tires that are best for paved surfaces and concrete floors.

Other add-ons that are valuable for narrow aisle forklifts:

• Sideshift. This very popular option allows the operator to move the load left and right without moving the truck, allowing much more precise placement of loads.
• Tilt mast. The ability to tilt the mast and forks forward and back is useful if loads aren't exactly level. Tilting the mast back slightly also provides greater stability while moving a loaded truck.
• Extendable forks. Adding extendable forks increases the "reach" of the forklift, allowing what's known as "double-deep" loading: stacking pallets one in front of the other.
• Operator platforms. Some NA forklifts raise and lower the operator along with the forks. When handling loads 20' or 30' up, this allows much greater visibility and control than having the operator at ground level.

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Narrow Aisle Forklift Specifications
Maximum available capacity	Typically 5,000 to 10,000 lbs.
Power source	Electric or propane
Tires	Cushion
Best used	Indoors
Typical Applications	Warehouses Manufacturing
Advantages	Reduced space requirements Right-angle forks
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