Since 1980, Meijer Handling Solutions has been the pioneer in the design and market introduction of telescopic forklift forks. Initially developed for KOOI^® truck-mounted forklifts, these hydraulic forks quickly found broader application across the material handling industry.

Today, thousands of telescopic forks are produced annually, becoming a staple in logistics operations. Their versatility allows for one-sided truck loading, double-deep pallet placement in warehouses, and the ability to adjust fork length to handle one or two pallets at the same time, including long pallets for cross-docking scenarios.

Damage-Free Euro Pallet Handling: A Smarter, Faster Approach

Efficiency is a buzzword in logistics, but how efficient is a standard forklift when it comes to handling Euro pallets? Forklifts are often equipped with forks measuring 1150 mm in length, a length that appears suitable until the pallet is approached from its long side.

Every forklift operator is trained to insert the forks fully into a pallet, ensuring the pallet rests flush against the fork back and providing optimal load stability. This method is also the fastest because the fork back provides a clear visual stop point.

But what happens when a Euro pallet is approached from its long side? The standard 1150 mm forks no longer offer the same level of confidence. The operator must now estimate how far to insert the forks without a physical stop. Under pressure to minimize damage and maximize throughput, this added uncertainty increases stress and the risk of errors.

Telescopic forks offer a simple, effective solution

Meijer Handling Solutions provides an online tool to visualize the actual cost of product damage. The results are precise: in many cases, the investment in telescopic forks pays for itself within one to two years.

In practical use, the telescopic forks start at 800 mm retracted and can extend to 1200 mm. This allows operators to always insert the forks fully into the pallet regardless of orientation, keeping the load stable against the fork back. This eliminates the risks of:

• Damaging rear pallets from over-penetration
• Insufficient fork support causing forward tipping
• Load shifts due to partial entry
• Wasted time correcting alignment errors
• Larger turning radii when maneuvering

With telescopic forks, operators can handle pallets more quickly and with less stress.

From a supplier's perspective, we understand that forklift manufacturers focus on selling trucks. However, it’s essential that a forklift is delivered fit-for-purpose. We believe it's the responsibility of the supplier to inform customers that a base model forklift should be tailored to the specific application.

If a truck is to be loaded from both sides, the customer should be informed that loading from one side is safer, offers better visibility, reduces the risk of accidents, and increases loading efficiency. A well-informed customer feels supported and is less likely to seek out alternative vendors.

In the case of Euro pallet handling, a larger forklift is not required. In most cases, an additional hydraulic function may be necessary, which is often already standard or easily added. Given the clear ROI, this is a small investment for a major operational improvement.

The message is clear: both end-users and suppliers benefit from a more thoughtful, application-driven approach to forklift specification and pallet handling.

For more information visit:  www.meijer-handling-solutions.com or contact us!