What are reach trucks?

Reach trucks are a favourite choice of warehouse managers – especially when working with tall racking. They offer a compact footprint, great manoeuvrability in small spaces, and high lifting ability. Those factors enable efficient use of a building’s area and height for high-density storage of goods. 

The defining feature of these trucks is their reach mechanism. It allows the mast to move forwards and backwards on the truck’s chassis. With the mast pulled back, the truck is short and easy to manoeuvre in warehouse aisles. Once the truck is positioned to stack or retrieve a pallet load, its mast reaches forward and its forks are pushed deep into the racking. 

When retrieving goods, the mast is pulled back – bringing with it the forks and loaded pallet. The pallet and its load slide in between two robust support legs equipped with large wheels. These characteristic stabilising features help avoid the need for a large counterweight which would add to the truck’s length. The load is carried within the truck’s wheelbase, which maximises stability and minimises dimensions. 

As well as reaching forwards and backwards, reach trucks are good at reaching upwards. Some can lift to 12 metres or more. Our reach trucks give high levels of power, performance and control – to get the job done quickly and safely. We also design them for supreme ergonomics and comfort – to get the best out of your driver.