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Applications and advantages of reach forklifts
Reach forklifts—sometimes referred to as reach truck forklifts or high-reach forklifts—are essential in operations that require vertical storage efficiency. Their small turning radius and tall mast height make them ideal for maximizing cubic capacity in modern warehouses.
- High-bay warehousing: Retrieve pallets from racks over 30 feet high with minimal aisle width.
- Cold storage operations: Electric powertrains minimize emissions while maintaining consistent lift performance in low temperatures.
- Distribution and 3PL centers: Fast travel and lift speeds support high-volume pallet movement and optimized slotting.
- Retail and manufacturing: Streamlined material flow between storage, staging, and production zones.
Specialized versions like the turret truck and very narrow aisle forklift further improve space utilization. Turret trucks feature rotating forks for side-on pallet handling, while very narrow aisle forklifts can operate in aisles as tight as five feet wide—ideal for high-density warehouse designs.
What is the difference between a reach truck and a forklift?
Although both reach trucks and forklifts are used for material handling, they’re built for different environments and load-handling tasks. The key distinction lies in how each machine lifts and moves pallets. A traditional forklift uses a counterweight to balance heavy loads and operates best in open areas or loading docks. A reach truck, on the other hand, uses an extendable mast that “reaches” into racking, allowing it to place or retrieve pallets in narrow aisles without moving the entire vehicle.
- Reach trucks: Designed for indoor use with smooth floors, narrow aisles, and high-bay storage. They feature telescoping masts and pantograph reach mechanisms for deep-rack access.
- Forklifts: Suited for outdoor use, uneven surfaces, and heavier loads. They rely on counterbalance weight and larger tires for stability.
In short, forklifts prioritize lifting power and terrain flexibility, while reach trucks focus on space optimization and precision within confined aisles.
Is a reach truck the same as a cherry picker?
No. Although the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, a reach truck and a cherry picker serve different purposes. A reach truck lifts and retrieves pallets—keeping the operator at ground level—whereas a cherry picker (also called an order picker) raises the operator to manually select individual items from racking. The reach truck’s forks do the lifting; the cherry picker’s platform lifts the person.
- Reach truck: For palletized goods, high stacking, and racking up to 40 feet.
- Cherry picker / order picker: For case picking, piece handling, and operator access to product locations.
Warehouses often use both machines: reach trucks for pallet storage and order pickers for SKU-level fulfillment.
How to choose the right reach truck for your operation
Selecting the right reach truck involves more than just lift height. Key factors include aisle width, pallet weight, and daily duty cycles. Here are important points to evaluate before purchasing:
- Lift height and capacity: Most reach trucks lift between 3,000 and 5,500 pounds and reach heights up to 40 feet. Always verify load charts for stability at maximum extension.
- Battery type: Lead-acid batteries remain cost-effective; lithium-ion offers faster charging and lower maintenance.
- Mast design: Single, double, or triple-stage masts accommodate different storage heights and ceiling clearances.
- Aisle width: Standard reach trucks operate in 8–10-foot aisles, while very narrow aisle forklifts can work in 5–6 feet.
- Operator comfort: Look for ergonomic seating, visibility aids, and intuitive controls to reduce fatigue during long shifts.
Brand choice also plays a role. The Raymond reach truck is known for reliability in intensive distribution settings, while the Toyota reach truck and Crown reach forklift are popular for their stability, responsive controls, and efficient power use. Understanding your load profile and aisle configuration ensures you pick a model tailored to your space and workflow.
Why buying used reach trucks makes sense
Investing in a used reach truck is a cost-effective way to expand warehouse capacity without sacrificing quality. Because electric reach trucks have fewer moving parts than internal combustion forklifts, they maintain performance over long lifecycles with proper maintenance. Ritchie Bros. offers thoroughly inspected used reach trucks for sale from top manufacturers, complete with photos, detailed specs, and condition reports.
When buying used, inspect the mast assembly, reach mechanism, forks, and hydraulics for wear. Check battery age, charger compatibility, and wheel condition. Verify stability sensors, braking systems, and operator compartment safety features. A well-maintained used reach truck can deliver years of dependable service at a fraction of the cost of new equipment.
Explore reach trucks at Ritchie Bros.
Ritchie Bros. makes it easy to compare, bid, and buy reach forklifts that fit your facility’s layout and productivity goals. Whether you’re looking for a standard reach truck, a turret truck, or a very narrow aisle forklift, you’ll find reliable options from trusted global brands. Transparent pricing, frequent auctions, and verified inspection data help you purchase with confidence. Browse current reach trucks for sale today and find equipment that delivers precision, efficiency, and long-term value to your operation.