forklift truck picture for the raymond corp.

“Companies that monitor utilization by specific truck and driver typically achieve greater profitability in the long run,” says Bell. Easy on/off access, low step height and spacious suspended floor help to reduce operator fatigue. That’s why lift truck manufacturers are reinventing the way their employees operate.įor example, Yale’s Smart Operator Sensing System takes ergonomics to a whole new “level,” as it does not require floor pedals in a stand-up lift truck. “And, some trucks with lithium-ion battery solutions have power packs that include integrated heaters for superior cold storage needs and thermal controls that reduce the risk of damage caused by environmental extremes.” Safety firstĮrgonomics, operator fatigue, labor shortage and undesirable working conditions are all factors impacting the future of forklifts. “Trucks like the high-capacity reach fork are ideal for tall cold storage and freezer applications, allowing pallet storage from 8-10 levels for potentially 25% more storage in warehouses,” she adds. “All of this will be made possible by integrating the Internet of Things (IoT) with electric vehicle, battery and charger analytics and reporting technologies under development today.”Īnd, as e-commerce continues to grow, cold storage warehouses are building up, not out, to maximize space of existing buildings, according to Susan Comfort, product manager, narrow aisle products, The Raymond Corp., Greene, N.Y. “Focusing on efficiency targets for vehicle power systems and power sources will enable significant gains,” says Lynda Stephens, senior manager, information solutions, EnerSys, Reading, Pa.

Other trends include operations management programs that drive efficiency at every level.

Forklift truck picture for the raymond corp.