The need for rapid handling in modern warehouses can lead to compromises in driver safety and also result in damage to equipment or goods. Standard lift truck forks are often too long or too short; think of the problems when handling euro pallets for example. Forks that are too short can be dangerous because they do not support the load completely. Forks that are too long can damage other goods and pallets but can also lift the pallet behind causing stacks to fall over. Customers do not accept such damage, and associated costs – as summarized below – can rarely be compensated.
- load has to be returned to packaging department
- packaging has to be removed
- contents have to be inspected for damage
- damage reports have to be filed
- contents have to be repackaged
- load has to be returned to loading station
Whether it be goods or pallets that are damaged, oversized forks cause many problems within the sector. There are also a number of hidden costs estimated to total anywhere from 10 to 15% of the capacity of the total logistics facility (source: Logistics.nl), such as costs incurred for administration and longer waiting times. If forklift truck drivers do not spot the damage, then you also run the risk of claims (perished products) and return shipments.
For the lift-truck driver
manual extension forks can be difficult to work with as they take time to install and relative heavy. Because of this also from an ergonomic point of view
manual sliding extensions are a cheaper alternative but depending of the frequency of use. Keep in mind that the lift truck driver needs to operate the forks every time manually and therefore needs to get off the lift truck. This takes time, can frustrate the driver and possible will not use the forks extensions.
Hydraulic fork extensions saves product damageSpecifications