This is a question we are frequently asked. To answer this question effectively, we must first consider the alternatives.
The conventional four-wheel counterbalance forklift is the most widely used pallet-stacking device globally due to its practicality, versatility, and cost-effectiveness. However, these trucks require significant space relative to the size of their load, with aisle widths of 4m to 5m being common. Three-wheeled counterbalance trucks were developed to reduce aisle widths to approximately 3m. While they are more economical, they typically lift lighter loads and are less effective on rough terrain, making them more suited to indoor warehousing with minimal outdoor use.
With its ability to operate in very narrow aisles, a Bendi Articulated Forklift allows warehouse operators to increase their storage capacity
High-reach trucks reduce aisle sizes further by utilising masts or tines that extend in and out of the truck body, allowing operation in aisles approximately 3m wide. However, to improve their performance in tighter spaces, these trucks are designed compactly, using smaller, harder tyres to counteract stability challenges resulting from their high center of gravity. These smaller tyres make high-reach trucks ideal for indoor use only, and counterbalance trucks are still needed for tasks like loading vehicles from warehouses.
VNA (very narrow aisle) trucks operate in even narrower aisles, approximately 1.7m to 2m wide, maximising storage space. This innovation was significantly influenced by UK forklift designer Freddy Brown, who later designed the first Bendi articulated truck. While effective for storage, VNA trucks come with several limitations. They require expensive, finely levelled floors and rail or wire guidance systems to ensure millimetre-precise operation. Additionally, large transfer aisles (4m to 6m wide) are necessary at the end of each aisle to allow VNA trucks to move between aisles, wasting valuable space. Furthermore, VNA trucks are exclusively for in-aisle use, meaning other trucks are required to feed the system and transport goods externally.
VNA trucks are also customised for specific warehouses, racking systems, and products, making them inflexible for varying operations or relocation. Their bespoke nature makes short-term hiring or replacements in case of breakdowns nearly impossible. For many businesses, these limitations and costs make VNA trucks less viable. Recognising these challenges, Bendi developed an articulated truck that eliminates the compromises associated with reducing aisle sizes. The result: a fast-moving, narrow-aisle, general-purpose forklift that can operate inside and outside, all while being mass-produced to suit various applications. This innovation, known as the Bendi, remains the world’s most popular articulated truck.
What Are the Real Benefits of the Bendi?
Rising property and land values, alongside increasing heating, lighting, and maintenance costs, have significantly raised the cost of warehouse and factory operations. Many companies are now seeking to condense their operations into smaller spaces. This is where a Bendi forklift excels.
The Bendi’s 220° mast and axle rotation allows it to operate in aisle widths as narrow as 1600mm – less than half the space required by a conventional 2-tonne counterbalance truck. This capability can double storage capacity or create additional production space. Furthermore, the Bendi’s versatility reduces the need for multiple trucks, improving productivity and enabling substantial cost savings.
An Introduction to Bendi International
Advantages in Manufacturing and Beyond
Bendi trucks are not just transforming the Warehousing and Distribution sectors. Manufacturing and Production industries are also seeing significant improvements in efficiency and cost savings. Manufacturing involves a variety of handling tasks, including offloading and storing raw materials, transporting items within the plant, feeding production lines, and managing the storage and distribution of finished goods. Traditionally, this would require different types of handling equipment, leading to underutilisation, increased fleet costs, double handling, and a greater risk of damage.
The Bendi articulated truck addresses all these challenges. Its ability to operate safely in aisles as narrow as 1600mm eliminates the need for double handling. Manufacturers are now using a single truck to unload vehicles, transport and feed production lines, store finished products, and distribute them. The result:
- Reduced forklift fleet operating costs
- Increased storage capacity, allowing for the purchase of more raw materials at lower costs.
- Reduced storage space requirements, Bendi gives you more room to expand production areas in your manufacturing facility and can even be a cost-effective alternative to an expensive extension or move to a bigger premises.
VNA (very narrow aisle) trucks operate in aisles that are approximately 1.7m to 2m wide
Discover More About Bendi and Landoll Solutions
Looking to optimise your warehouse operations or learn more about the benefits of articulated forklifts? Visit the Bendi International website for detailed information about how Bendi trucks can transform your material handling processes. Visit our website here.
Want to see the Bendi in action? Check out our YouTube channel to watch the truck’s exceptional maneuverability and performance in real-world applications.
In addition to the Bendi range, we also proudly offer Landoll's innovative material handling equipment. The Landoll range complements our articulated forklifts, providing versatile solutions tailored to meet the demands of a variety of industries. To explore the full selection, visit the Landoll Material Handling website here.
For more information, visit https://bendinarrowaisle.com or contact the Bendi Team.
