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Choosing the right forklift mast is imperative for your business. Not only do you want to stick within your budget, but you also need to pick one that’ll have a positive effect on productivity and efficiency throughout the warehouse. As such, here’s everything you need to know about forklift masts and their capabilities.
6 different types of forklift mast
There are several different forklift masts on the market today and so it makes it difficult for warehouse owners to choose the right one for them. It might also result in a warehouse owner either buying a forklift mast that’s too complex for their operations, or not complex enough, which means wasting money. As such, here are six different forklift masts you could choose from:
Single stage forklift mast
This only has one channel and is therefore somewhat limited in terms of the maximum height it can reach. It should also be noted that they have zero free lift. Hence why they’re more suited to outdoor applications and settings where overhead clearances won’t be an issue. In this instance, it can be used much like a conventional, mid-range forklift model. Although it isn’t the most versatile, it’s ideal for simple warehouse operations.
2-stage forklift mast
A duplex forklift mast, as it’s also referred to, and as the name would suggest, consists of two different sections. The outer stage doesn’t move, but it does give the option for free lift. On the other hand, the inner mast section is used to raise the carriage and forks. As such, this forklift mast is perfect for ensuring maximum visibility throughout its operation, which is safer for forklift operators and pedestrians on the ground.
3-stage forklift mast
A 3-stage forklift mast, or a triplex, as it’s more commonly known, is the most versatile mast on the market. For that reason, it’s also the most popular forklift mast out there. The outer rails allow for free lift whilst the inner sections are able to lift considerable weights to a height greater than that reached by a 2-stage forklift mast. It has free lift, making it ideal for general warehouse stacking jobs.
4-stage forklift mast
Also known as a quad mast, it’s designed to reach exceptional heights in order to aid the stacking of inventory, no matter its size or shape, but there is a maximum load capacity associated with it, so be sure to check its specifications before making a purchase. Although there’s a limit on the amount of weight it can lift, this forklift mast offers the highest lift height capacity of all of the forklift masts available.
Straight forklift mast
This is a fixed assembly forklift mast that’s located on the front of the vehicle. In this instance, the whole forklift has to be manoeuvred into the desired position. This isn’t an issue, usually, if you have ample space to utilise in and around your warehouse. This type of forklift mast is ideal for aisles that are wide or for larger, more open spaces, whether it be inside or outdoors.
Swing forklift mast
When attached to a forklift, a swing mast is known as an articulated forklift. These are commonly used in settings where space is somewhat limited. What makes it unique is the fact that the entire forklift mast assembly can be effortlessly rotated 90 degrees from whichever direction the forklift might be facing at the time of operation.
In turn, this reduces the need for the lift truck itself to turn in compact spaces. As such, you’ll have to invest in the mast rather than a whole new VNA forklift, for example, which is designed to manoeuvre in tight, hard-to-reach areas. If you buy a forklift with a swing mast already attached, however, it’ll cost significantly more than a conventional forklift.
4 Things to consider when choosing the right forklift mast for you
When it comes to purchasing a forklift mast, it’s important that you’re choosing the right one to meet your individual needs. You don’t want to buy a state-of-the-art mast when you don’t need to. Assess your requirements and take measurements so as to ensure you’re buying one that’ll do the job seamlessly but without going over your budget. Here are four things to consider before committing to your forklift mast purchase.
Lift height capabilities
There’s no point buying a forklift mast if it can’t reach the top shelves of your warehouse racking. Make sure you have measurements on hand before purchasing a forklift mast. You’ll also be able to ask the seller for its lift height capabilities, for added peace of mind. For extra reassurance, you could ask to see the mast in action, just so you’re absolutely certain that it’ll be able to reach your required heights in and around your own warehouse.
Maximum lifting capacity
A forklift mast needs to meet your needs, no matter the industry you work in. Make sure you check the maximum weight and load capacity before making your purchase. If you work in an industry that involves the handling of large, bulky or weighty items, then you need a forklift mast that’ll do it all. If, however, you’re not working with such items, then you might be able to get away with a forklift mast that’s less durable and robust, which also means you’ll be paying less for it initially.
Is versatility something you’re looking for?
The more complex and versatile a forklift mast is, the more costly it’s going to be. This is the same for any piece of warehouse equipment, usually. So it’s important you understand exactly what it is you need to get out of your forklift mast. What are your requirements? Where are staff struggling to be productive because of the lack of equipment you have? If you aren’t sure, then ask your employees what they think in order to gauge which forklift mast would be best suited to you and your team.
How much money have you budgeted?
Often, the one thing that dictates the type of forklift mast you buy is cost. You need to make sure that it’s the right investment for you. Is the mast versatile enough to improve efficiency and productivity, but doesn’t cost too much that you won’t reap back your investment in good time? If you have a particularly small budget, then you’ll need to weigh up the versatility and benefit to yourself against the initial cost.
If it seems advantageous, then make your purchase. However, if your budget isn’t big enough, then you might have to settle on a mast that’s a little more simple and not as versatile. There might also be second-hand options available to you from a reputable forklift dealer, like us here at Multy Lift.
Multy Lift has over thirty years of experience in the material handling industry, meaning we have extensive knowledge and expertise to draw upon in order to ensure you’re provided with the best possible material handling solution to meet your needs and exceed your expectations. For more information about the new and used warehouse equipment we have available, including new and second-hand forklifts, get in touch with a member of our professional, friendly team today – we’re able to operate throughout the UK.
