Summary
- Forklift attachments can increase the versatility of standard forklifts
- Some specialist operations require custom forklift attachments
- Learn about the 13 most common forklift attachments and their uses
Introduction
Forklifts are essential for transporting and lifting heavy loads in warehouses, fulfilment centres and other workplaces. They can be fitted with a variety of different attachments to increase functionality and accessibility. In this article, we’re going to take a look at the different types of forklift attachments and their specific uses.
What are Forklift Attachments?
Forklift attachments are additional tools or accessories that can be affixed to a forklift to enhance its functionality and versatility. These enhancements allow the machine to handle specific tasks that a standard forklift might not be able to undertake efficiently. They come in many forms, each designed with a particular purpose in mind. The use of these attachments can significantly improve operational efficiency and safety in many industries.
13 Essential Forklift Attachments That Boost Productivity
Sideshifter
A sideshifter is a common forklift attachment which allows the operator to move loads from side to side. This means pallet alignment can be adjusted without having to manoeuvre the full forklift.
This facilitates reduced pallet damage, faster pallet loading and better use of warehouse space. Sideshifters are used in a variety of different industries, including construction, agriculture, paper handling, retail and fulfilment.
Fork positioners
Fork positioners are useful when load widths are constantly changing, as they allow the forks on the vehicle to be hydraulically positioned. This means the operator can quickly and easily align forks and pallets for rapid and effective handling. The benefits of fork positioners include improved handling times and increased productivity, as they remove the need for manual fork adjustment. Fork positions are used across a wide cross-section of industries including warehousing, fulfilment, distribution and food manufacturing.
Push/pull attachment
Push/pull attachments are useful for forklift operators who want to increase transportation volumes. With a push/pull attachment, pallets are replaced by an inexpensive slip sheet which can help to reduce packaging weight. These attachments operate hydraulically, using a faceplate and gripper to hold and transport goods.
Paper clamps
During paper handling operations, paper clamp attachments can be utilised to increase productivity while ensuring paper rolls are damage-free. These attachments are most commonly found in the paper handling and printing industries.
Multiple pallet handler
Multiple pallet handlers, sometimes referred to as multiple load handlers, are designed for a variety of different tasks. They can hold single pallets as standard, or the forks on the attachment can be spread to allow the lifting, carrying and side-shifting of several side-by-side pallets.
As one of the most versatile forklift attachments, the multiple pallet handler is perfect for narrow aisle navigation. It also helps to improve the efficiency of materials handling, as it takes operators fewer trips to complete each task.
Forklift Rotator Attachment
Rotators are used to rotate the forklift forks 360 degrees. There are a variety of situations where rotators come in useful, particularly when loads need to be dumped or inverted. With the ability to quickly invert loads before returning forks to an upright position, rotators can help to limit downtime and ensure safe dumping and disposal. Rotators are most commonly used in the waste/recycling industry, although they are also widely used in agriculture and food processing plants.
Fork extensions
Every now and then, forklift operators find themselves in a situation where they could do with some additional length on the forks of their vehicle. Fork extensions are essentially sleeves which attach to the forks to create a simple (yet effective) means of handling long, awkward loads which would otherwise extend past the end of the fork arm.
Fork extensions provide stability and facilitate the safe handling of longer loads while ensuring the forklift truck operator maintains complete manoeuvrability and retains normal operational conditions. These attachments are used in almost all industries where forklifts are required, including warehouses, shops, factories and fulfilment centres.
Carpet poles
Carpet poles are used to retrieve rolls of carpet from warehouses and carpet retail spaces. A singular pole attachment, positioned at the front of the forklift, can be inserted into the central space of a roll of carpet. Once securely in place, the carpet can then be easily moved from its current location.
Fork-mounted drum handlers
Forklift operators who need to transport steel or plastic drums will undoubtedly be familiar with fork-mounted drum attachments. There are several different configurations available, including lifters, carriers and grabbers, each of which can be configured to carry drums of varying capacities. Heavy-duty drum handlers are capable of carrying 55-gallon containers which weigh in excess of 1,000 lb.
Forklift masts
There are several mast options available for most forklifts. Single-stage, two-stage, three-stage and four-stage attachments allow forklift operators to hoist loads to greater heights. These can be useful in placing or retrieving goods from shelves in warehouses, without having to arrange for a new forklift with a larger mast.
Cylinder caddies
If you regularly need to transport pressurised cylinders (such as LPG or propane gas), a cylinder caddy is essential for the task at hand. These attachments allow for the secure movement of pressurised metal cylinders from A to B with an emphasis on complete safety. Most cylinder caddies have chains which can be fastened to ensure cylinders remain in-situ and upright during the journey.
Roller forks
Roller forks are special forklift attachments which remove the need for loads to be transported on pallets. Instead, two layers of rollers situated on the forks are put to use. The lowest layer moves forward, with the upper layer moving backwards. This helps to ensure the load is secured. Roller forks can be used with or without slip sheets, depending on the load type and the preferences/requirements of the workplace.
Forklift grit spreader Attachment
Did you know that it is possible to turn your forklift into a grit-spreading machine? Forklift grit spreaders can be connected via a tow ball, hitch and pin or even sit on the forks, allowing your forklift operators to reduce the potential for slips during icy conditions. These are particularly useful during the winter and could help your business save on the time and cost of manually spreading grit and salt on the exterior areas of your premises.
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Conclusion
Forklift attachments can add a whole new level of versatility to your existing forklift, and could even help save money in comparison to purchasing a new unit outright. For further information about forklift attachments, or to discuss your forklift requirements with us, please do not hesitate to contact us today.