A sideloader in the material handling world is a specialized forklift designed to move sideways through tight spaces, moving long, sometimes awkwardly shaped loads, that cannot be safely moved with a traditional forklift. These unique machines operate inside and outside, and run on either diesel, electric, or propane. They are part of the group known as Very Narrow Aisle or VNA forklifts, that include articulated mast forklifts and turret trucks.
Operators sit or stand, depending on the sideloader design. Outdoor units often include an enclosed operator cab to protect them from the weather. Loads are picked from the side and transported sideways, often positioned on the frame of the forklift to increase stability. Combilift sideloaders, for example, are also multi-directional and capable of lifting in excess of 17,000 pounds.
Sideloaders are perfect for lumber and truss yards, pipe plants, steel fabricators, and other industries looking to move long loads and optimize their warehouse space. Building materials suppliers, energy companies, and heavy manufacturers also utilize sideloaders.
Maybe a sideloader would be a good fit for your operation. Contact us for a free site evaluation.
