NA and VNA Trucks: There are certain truck types that have very narrow aisle or VNA features or NA or narrow aisle features. Nearly all counterbalanced trucks require at least 11 feet of aisle width to be able to operate safely and efficiently. Na or Narrow Aisle trucks however, could operate in narrow aisles that measure 8 to 10 feet wide. Moreover, very narrow aisle or VNA trucks can operate in aisles which are 6 feet wide.
The advantage of utilizing a VNA and NA truck over a traditional lift is that it makes it possible for warehouses to be built with narrower aisles. The wider aisles in the warehouses enable for more storage of products within a particular area, which improves cube utilization. The loads transported using Very Narrow Aisle and Narrow Aisle trucks usually are limited to approximately 3000 and 5000 lbs. Reach trucks are capable of operating in narrow aisle. Turret trucks, rotating mast trucks and order selectors can operate in narrow or very narrow aisles, depending on the particular model.
Reach Trucks: Specially designed for retrieval and storage, reach trucks are made with outriggers and telescoping forks which enables the operator to pick up and retract a load over the outriggers. These units are not suitable for loading and unloading trucks, nor for moving loads quickly over long distances. Like the order selector, reach trucks can be available for lifting heights that are greater than 30 feet.
Turret Trucks and Rotating-Mast Trucks: Similar to regular sit-down forklifts, rotating mast trucks have masts which can rotate in one direction, to a 90 degree angle. This feature enables them to function within a narrow aisle condition. Turret trucks can operate in narrow or very narrow aisle locations. Like order selectors, these machinery could lift both the load and the operator. In addition, they could allow the operator to handle loads on either side of an aisle without exiting and re-entering the aisle.
Turret trucks are usually wire or rail guided when used in very narrow aisles. Thus, the operator doesn't need to focus any energy on their driving skills and can concentrate on the work load at hand. Since turret trucks are considered "operator-up" trucks, they are able to be utilized for picking cases and items as well as full pallet handling.