What is a Walkie Stacker?
A Walkie Stacker, also known as a pedestrian stacker or electric walkie stacker, is a type of powered industrial truck used for lifting and moving pallets of goods in a warehouse or storage facility. Unlike a traditional forklift, a walkie stacker is designed to be operated by a person on foot who walks behind the machine, hence the name.
The operator uses a set of controls on the handle to manoeuvre the walkie stacker, raise or lower the forks, and pick up, transport, or stack pallets. It’s equipped with a mast for vertical lifting and forks to hold the pallets.
Walkie stackers are typically smaller and more manoeuvrable than forklifts, making them ideal for use in tight spaces or narrow aisles. They are often used in small warehouses, retail spaces, and other environments where space is at a premium or a full-sized forklift isn’t necessary.
The Key Features of Walkie Stackers
- Power Operated: Unlike manual pallet jacks, walkie stackers are powered by an electric motor which makes lifting and moving heavier loads easier and more efficient.
- Lifting Height: Walkie stackers can lift loads to much greater heights than pallet jacks, often up to 12 feet or more. This makes them ideal for stacking pallets on high shelves.
- Handle Controls: The handle on a walkie stacker includes controls for lifting and lowering the forks, as well as controlling the direction and speed of movement.
- Load Capacity: While their capacity can vary, walkie stackers can typically handle loads up to 3,000 pounds, making them suitable for most standard pallet loads.
- Straddle Legs: Many walkie stackers have straddle legs that can adjust to different widths to accommodate various sizes of pallets.
- Safety Features: These may include an emergency stop button, horn, and a built-in sensor that automatically reduces speed when turning corners to prevent tipping over.
- Battery Operated: Walkie stackers are usually powered by rechargeable batteries, making them eco-friendly and cost-effective over time.
- Compact Size: Similar to pallet jacks, walkie stackers are designed to be compact and maneuverable for use in narrow aisles and tight spaces.
- Versatility: Some models of walkie stackers come with adjustable forks and platforms, making them versatile for handling different types of loads.
- Built-in Charger: Some walkie stackers come equipped with a built-in charger for easy and convenient recharging.