Reach Forklift Suppliers

• Smaller and more agile than most forklifts
• No noise
• No harmful emissions
• 35% smaller turning circle than forklifts
• Stacks as high as 12 metres
• Ideal for warehouses with high racks, but narrow aisles and minimal space
• Allow more stock to be stacked/racked in a smaller area
• Good operator visibility
• Video screen to see what’s happening overhead

• Smaller load capacity than forklifts -  no more than 2,500kg

• Subject to sway when carrying heavy pallets above 10 metres

• Not suited to outdoor work

• Need a smooth surface

• Need a dry environment

• What’s the budget?
• Is most of the work indoors or outdoors?
• What’s the minimum load capacity?
• What’s the minimum lifting capacity?
• What’s the daily reach truck workload?
• What are the minimum operator comfort levels?
• What’s the preferred operator position – seated or standing?
• What’s the maximum reach truck size?
• What’s the maximum reach truck turning circle?

The average price for a reach truck is a pretty affordable $6,000, but they can reach as high as $16,000 for models with all the specs.

Even with the most regimented maintenance schedule, reach trucks can develop faults. Here are some common reach truck issues and what normally causes them.

• Sway due to carrying heavy loads at height on a narrow vehicle
• Won’t start due to blown fuse, short circuit or blocked control circuit
• Sporadic or reduced speed due to short circuit
• Worn tyres due to a constant heavy workload
• Worn suspension for the same reason
• Overheating due to outdoor work in hot weather
• Malfunction due to outdoor work in the rain

Reach trucks – and forklifts generally - are basically cars that can lift really heavy stuff. Maintaining them is therefore the domain of trained reach truck/forklift mechanics.

Here are some things operators can do on a regular basis to maintain a reach truck between scheduled maintenance visits.

• Clean the entire reach truck daily.
• Before each shift, use a dry rag to wipe away dirt, dust and oil.
• Check these components daily – brakes, battery, forks, controls and tyres.
• Conduct a thorough check of all parts every month.
• Stick to the scheduled maintenance program.

To operate a reach truck or any kind of forklift in Australia, you need a National High-Risk Work License (HRWL). A full understanding of workplace health and safety is also essential.