Types of Container Forklifts
There are three main types of container forklifts available. Before comparing container handlers for sale, it’s important to know which one is the best fit for you. Learn more about each type here:
Reach Stacker
The first type of container handler is the reach stacker. Reach stacker forklifts have an extendable boom arm that lifts cargo up and away from the base. These machines can stack containers in multiple rows.
Most reach stackers can stack four containers high in the third row and five high in the first. Thanks to their multidirectional boom arm, these container handlers offer more depth.
However, this depth comes at a price. A reach stacker forklift has lower selectivity than other options. In other words, you’ll need to perform more dead picks to retrieve a stored container.
Because these machines grab containers from the top, they can carry more weight. On average, a reach stacker can handle up to 100,000 pounds of cargo. Consider browsing reach stackers for sale if you need to move heavy loads with more depth.
Loaded Container Handler
Loaded container handlers move heavy cargo up and down along a straight mast. Like reach stackers, these machines grab containers from the top. Twist-locks attach at each corner to secure the load before lifting.
Because they lift from the top, this equipment is often called a top loader container handler or a top picker container handler. Carrying cargo this way allows the machine to carry more weight. A loaded container handler generally has a load capacity of about 90,000 pounds. This is only 10,000 pounds less than the average capacity of a reach stacker forklift.
Since they have a straight mast, these machines can only stack one row deep. On average, top picker container handlers can stack six containers high. Save space by stacking upwards with a top loader container handler.
Top picker container handlers offer less depth, but higher selectivity. Use a loaded container handler to retrieve the container you need with efficiency.
Empty Container Handler
Unlike the previous two types, empty container handlers carry cargo at the sides. To grab a load, twist-locks attach to each corner of the side of a container. Like loaded container handlers, this equipment has a straight mast.
Empty container handlers only have a lift capacity of around 20,000 pounds. As their name suggests, these machines are designed to carry empty containers. Because of this, they can lift multiple containers at once.
An empty container handler uses fast lifting cycles to increase efficiency. This equipment is also known for being durable and reliable. Search empty container handlers for sale to find equipment that can handle all weather conditions.
Since empty container handlers have straight masts, their depth is limited. This equipment can only stack cargo in one row. Compare empty container handlers for sale if you need high selectivity and low load capacity.
Depth, selectivity, and load capacity all play a role when choosing a container handler type. Use Industrial Forklift Truck to browse the largest selection of container handlers for sale.