The triple pallet handler attachment means forklift operators can carry three stacks of pallets in a movement.

Pooled equipment provider CHEP has boosted productivity at its South Australian centre by introducing new triple-tine forklifts to carry pallet loads, reducing load times by about 10.5 minutes compared to loading with a double-tine forklift.

Regional operations manager Mike O'Flaherty says the use of a triple pallet handler attachment means forklift operators can carry three stacks of pallets in a movement, compared to two stacks with the double pallet handlers.

"This means we achieve a 50% improvement in productivity and a 50% improvement in load/unload times."

Andrew Francis, director, plant operations for CHEP Australia, tells Forkliftaction.com News the company will replace double-tine forklifts with triple-tine where it will increase efficiencies and where yard space allows.

"The triple-tine forklifts are physically larger and, therefore, not suitable for all sites and all purposes. The triple-tine forklifts are used to load trucks. Many other functions within our service centres are performed by standard single-tine forklifts, which can manoeuvre around the interior of a service centre more efficiently.

"We are conducting an analysis of which service centres will benefit from triple-tine forklifts and the conversion will take place progressively over the next 24 months."

The triple-tine attachment is supplied by Cascade and fitted by CHEP's forklift provider, Toyota.