LIFT TRUCKS
materialhandlingupdate
ThinkThink
before you attach before you attach
Lift truck attachments
make specialized
product handling more
efficient and drivers
PHOTO COURTES Y OF CRO WN EQUIPMENT CORP.
more productive.
But there’s a lot to
consider before you go
out and buy one.
IF YOUR LIFT TRUCKS CARRY PRODUCTS THAT ARE BULKY OR COME IN
unusual shapes or sizes, then you’ve probably already figured out that standard-issue
forks may not be the best tools for handling them. Or perhaps they do the job well
enough, but you suspect there’s a more efficient way to move those hard-to-handle items.
If that’s the case, then it’s time to look into buying lift truck attachments. These add-ons improve productivity and reduce damage while making it easier and safer for
drivers to handle items that are a little out of the ordinary. Among the more common
types are side shifters, multi-pallet handlers, and clamps for paper rolls, barrels, and
so forth. (For other examples, see the sidebar.)
Although attachments can offer a quick and easy solution to specialized handling
problems, there are many things to consider before you buy one. As the experts we
consulted made clear, if you want to get the full benefit from this type of equipment,
you’ll need to “think before you attach.”
WHO DOES WHAT?
Most attachments are sold through lift truck dealers, but some attachment manufacturers sell directly to end users. (Several truck makers, by the way, manufacture cer-
