Narrow Aisle and very Narrow Aisle Trucks: Some forklifts have VNA features or NA features. To be able to function safely and efficiently, most counterbalanced trucks require a minimum of 11 feet of aisle width. Narrow Aisle trucks however, can function in narrow aisles that measure 8 to 10 feet wide. Moreover, VNA or very narrow aisle trucks can operate in aisles as narrow as 6 feet wide.
The advantage of using a VNA and NA truck over a traditional lift is that it makes it possible for warehouses to be constructed with narrower aisles. The wider aisles within the warehouses enable for more storage of products in a particular area, that improves cube use. The loads moved by Very Narrow Aisle and Narrow Aisle trucks typically are limited to roughly 3000 and 5000 lbs. Reach trucks are capable of operating in narrow aisle. Turret trucks, rotating mast trucks and order selectors could work in very narrow or narrow aisles, depending on the particular unit.
Reach Trucks: Specially made for storage and retrieval, reach trucks are made with telescoping forks and outriggers which enables the operator to lift and retract a load over the outriggers. These units are not suitable for unloading or loading trucks, nor for moving loads quickly over long distances. Similar to the order selector, reach trucks can be available for lifting heights that are greater than 30 feet.
Turret Trucks and Rotating-Mast Trucks: Similar to standard sit-down forklifts, rotating mast trucks have masts that are able to rotate in one direction, to a 90 degree angle. This feature enables them to function in a narrow aisle condition. Turret trucks could work in very narrow or narrow aisle locations. Similar to order selectors, these equipment could elevate both the operator and the cargo. In addition, they are able to enable the operator to handle loads on either side of an aisle without re-entering and exiting the aisle.
Turret trucks are usually wire or rail guided when utilized within very narrow aisles. This way, the operator could concentrate on the work load at hand as they doesn't have to focus any energy on their driving skills. As turret trucks are considered "operator-up" trucks, they are able to be used for case and item picking in addition to full pallet handling.