NA and VNA Trucks: There are some truck models that have VNA or very narrow aisle features or NA or narrow aisle features. Most counterbalanced trucks require at least 11 feet of aisle width to be able to function safely and efficiently. Narrow Aisle trucks however, can operate in narrow aisles which are 8 to 10 feet wide. In addition, very narrow aisle or VNA trucks can function in aisles as narrow as 6 feet wide.
The advantage of utilizing an NA and VNA truck over a regular lift is that it makes it possible for warehouses to be built with narrower aisles. The wider aisles in the warehouses allow for more storage of products within a particular space, which improves cube use. The loads moved by Narrow Aisle and Very narrow Aisle trucks typically are limited to around 3000 and 5000 lbs. Reach trucks are capable of operating in narrow aisle. Rotating mast trucks, order selectors and turret trucks could operate in very narrow or narrow aisles, depending on the specific model.
Reach Trucks: Reach trucks are especially made narrow-aisle trucks which are designed for retrieval and storage. They are made of telescoping forks and outriggers that enable the operators to lift a load and then retract it over the outriggers. These units are not suitable for unloading or loading trucks, nor for transporting loads quickly over long distances. Like the order selector, reach trucks can be available for lifting heights that are higher than 30 feet.
Turret Trucks and Rotating-Mast Trucks: Rotating-mast trucks are similar to typical sit-down forklifts. The main difference is that their masts are able to rotate in one direction, to a 90 degree angle. This particular feature enables them to operate within a narrow aisle condition. Turret trucks could work in narrow or very narrow aisle places. Like order selectors, these equipment are capable of elevating both the operator and the load. In addition, they are able to allow the operator to deal with loads on either side of an aisle without exiting and re-entering the aisle.
Turret trucks are normally wire or rail guided when they are used within very narrow aisles. Thus, the operator doesn't need to focus any energy on their driving skills and can focus on the work load at hand. As turret trucks are considered "operator-up" trucks, they can be used for picking items and cases in addition to full pallet handling.