If warehouse operations are involved in any part of your business, one of the most convenient devices to have on-site is a walkie stacker. Similar to forklifts, they’re designed for handling and moving pallets away from or onto warehouse racks at varying heights. However, they’re smaller, which makes them perfect for areas where a traditional forklift would be too unwieldy. If you’re interested to learn about walkie stackers and the different types available, here’s what you need to know. 

The Advantages

Because they’re more compact than forklifts, walkie stackers are a smart choice for smaller warehouses and narrower rooms. If your warehouse racks are taller than they are wide, these are perfect. Another reason why they’re ideal in compact spaces is that they’re exhaust-free and noise pollution-free.

The Types

Walkie stackers are available as either manual or motorized models, in a variety of types:

• Standard: A standard walkie stacker has legs directly underneath the forklifts. This design keeps it slim in width and makes it easy to rotate in small spaces. 
• Walkie Straddle: With two legs framing the forklift on either side, this type of stacker allows for a better, more even weight distribution and higher lift height than the standard. It’s also the most used type of walkie stacker.
• Walkie Reach: A walkie reach has a mast that can move pallets both vertically and horizontally. While they can be used for warehouse racks, the horizontal movement makes them ideal for loading or unloading trucks and trailers too. 
• Counter-Balance: If you’re navigating narrow aisles, it’s better to have a counter-balance walkie stacker instead of a walkie straddle, which has a broader profile. However, to retain the ability to distribute the weight load evenly, it has a longer profile; note, because of this, it does require more room when turning. 
• Ride-On: The ride-on model has a seat for a driver. It’s closest in design to the standard type, with the legs directly beneath the forklifts. If you have a bigger warehouse, this may be the most efficient and comfortable option for your team. However, unlike the other types, it does require a forklift operating license. 

If you need a walkie stacker for your warehouse racks, get in touch with AJ Jersey. Based in South Plainfield, this forklift dealer has been trusted by businesses throughout New Jersey for 50 years. They offer top name brands like Crown® and Doosan®. Whether you’re interested in buying, leasing, renting, or just need replacement forklift parts, they’ll have what you need. They even offer service and maintenance! You can see what walkie stackers they have for sale on their website, but if you have any questions, call (908) 754-7333 today.