A Hyster reach truck in action

Robert is Senior Product Strategy Leader, NMHG. He has worked for NMHG for 11 years and is responsible for the product development strategy and introduction of new products across the Hyster warehouse range.

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Reach trucks are a key ingredient for warehouses in all industry sectors. Robert O'Donoghue provides 20 useful tips on what to look for when buying or hiring a reach truck in today's marketplace.

1. Check residual capacities today
Residual capacities change with new truck designs, so it is important to check the very latest statistics from the manufacturer.
2. Aisle widths
Aisle widths help define the truck choice, but if more space is needed, a smaller truck can be used to decrease the aisle widths and increase the number of aisles per warehouse.
3. Mast height/range
Most reach trucks have a three-stage mast and while lift height is important, the lowered height of the mast is also critical. Make sure it is not too tall for internal doorways and tunnels in the racking. The external door may also be a factor. Check the ratio of closed height (h1) to top lift height (h3).
4. Travel speed
A good travel speed is important, but many operations have speed limits, which makes the top speed irrelevant.
5. Lift speed
Look for lift speeds in the region of 0.8m/s. Over the course of a day, seconds add up to valuable minutes.
6. Operating Environment
If required in the cold store, check that the manufacturer has an integrated cold store solution.
7. Usage
If the truck is going to be used in intensive 24-hour operations, check that the truck is tough enough to do the job. Reliability is critical, so make sure that the battery and battery management meet the requirements.
8. Visibility of fork tips
Although reach trucks can lift to set heights, floor conditions can affect the actual fork height. Visibility of the fork tips is essential. Compare the total channel width of different brands, but make sure you are comparing like for like according to residual capacity. Cameras and lasers can make operating easier for the driver at height.
9. Access for the operator
Statistics show that an operator will get on and off a reach truck at least five times an hour. Over the course of a shift, this soon adds up. Look for a reach truck with a wide and low step with easy to grip handles. You will be surprised how this varies between brands and what a difference it makes to a driver.
10. Driver comfort
Drivers are expected to sit in a reach truck for most of their shift, so make sure it is comfortable to minimise fatigue, which can affect their overall performance.
11. Construction
Make sure that the truck is tough and robust. The build quality of the chassis and mast is crucial to make sure that it can withstand daily stresses and provides rigidity at height.
12. Steering column
Steering wheels vary in size and position across brands, but our research shows that drivers do not like steering wheels that are too small or have an offset angle. They need to be very tough, as many drivers use them to get on and off the truck. Adjustability must be easy or the driver won't use it. Get your own driver feedback.
13. Display
The visual display provides important information to the driver and comes in many different formats. Test them to see if they are intuitive and easy to read.
14. Controls
Mini-levers or joystick? Driver preference or site history may decide which way to go; however, always try the options and test how easy it is to activate tilt and sideshift, for example.
15. Pantograph or moving mast
This is a practical decision to determine whether a Pantograph Reach Truck (scissor design reach mechanism to extend the forks) or a moving mast is appropriate, particularly if double deep racking is used. Check the performance of each for your specific operation.
16. Double-deep racking
When used in double-deep racking, a narrow body chassis will often be needed, so ensure it is available on your selected model.
17. Common components
It is a good idea to select a manufacturer that can prove the quality and reliability of the components. Common controls across warehouse products help the drivers to switch trucks easily.
18. Service access
Check to see how easy it is to access major components as this will help to minimise service costs.
19. Cost of ownership
Check that the reach truck is energy efficient, has long service intervals, has proven reliable components and helps deliver productivity.
20. Support
Let's not forget that quality local support plays a crucial role in ensuring that the truck performs at its best throughout the contract period.