Sideloaders have become a terrific alternative for many companies needing to perform handling tasks on unconventional cargo. Sales of these models are small however, taking up 1% to 5% of the global forklift market.
Commonly, side-loaders are used in the timber, aluminum, glass, steel, construction and aviation businesses. Furthermore, they are utilized in industries which are making unusual items including windmill arms and moldings. Practically any business which produces oversized long or awkward things utilizes the side-loaders.
Side-loaders were initially made during the start of the 1950s by Henry Le Grande Lull from the Lull Manufacturing Company. These models were designed in response to a request from the United States Air Force. The initial concept was patented for commercial use but it was not developed until Lull Manufacturing was taken over by the Baker Raulang Company in 1959. It was Baker Raulang who put the design into production. Later, the name was changed to Baker Traveloader. In the latter part of the 1950s, the side-loaders were launched in Europe. The early units were designed by Italian manufacturer Fiora and the afterwards B-P Battioni e Pagani who pioneered the machine's utilization within timber yards.
Side-loaders vary a little from forward traveling, counterbalance lift trucks in that they have their forks located on the side of the equipment. The operator drives the machinery sitting in a cabin like a traditional lift truck. The loading, unloading and lifting functions are done by the mast located at the right-hand side of the driver. The cargo is typically transported lying on a wooden or metal deck. This helps to reduce stress, distortion and damage to the cargo. Recent innovations to the side-loader design have integrated a large variety of lifting accessories being developed.
The utilization of side-loaders instead of the reach-stackers or standard forklifts: better visibility, safer operating conditions, and the ability to use available space more effectively in addition to faster traveling speeds.
You will just be able to accurately determine the right kind of equipment to complete your tasks, when you have fully assessed the work environment and kinds of tasks you would be completing. There are some great rental options available as well in order to determine the right kind of machine to suit all your requirements. Doing some research online or talking to a reputable dealer is one more good way to get some information as well when trying to figure out the best option.