Narrow Aisle and very Narrow Aisle Trucks: Some forklifts have VNA features or NA features. In order to operate efficiently and safely, most counterbalanced trucks require at least 11 feet of aisle width. NA trucks however, can function in narrow aisles that measure 8 to 10 feet wide. In addition, very narrow aisle or VNA trucks can function in aisles that are 6 feet wide.
The advantage of using a VNA and NA truck over a standard lift is that it makes it possible for warehouses to be built with narrower aisles. The wider aisles in the warehouses enable for more storage of products in a specific space, which improves cube use. The loads moved by Very Narrow Aisle and NA trucks typically are limited to about 3000 and 5000 pounds. Reach trucks are capable of operating in narrow aisle. Turret trucks, rotating mast trucks and order selectors are able to work within very narrow or narrow aisles, depending on the particular unit.
Reach Trucks: Specifically made for retrieval and storage, reach trucks are made with telescoping forks and outriggers that enables the operator to pick up and retract a load over the outriggers. These units are not suitable for loading and unloading trucks, nor for moving loads quickly over long distances. Like the order selector, reach trucks can be available for lifting heights which are greater than 30 feet.
Turret Trucks and Rotating-Mast Trucks: Similar to typical sit-down forklifts, rotating mast trucks have masts that can rotate in one direction, to a 90 degree angle. This feature allows them to function in a narrow aisle condition. Turret trucks are able to work in narrow or very narrow aisle places. Like order selectors, these machinery can lift both the operator and the load. Furthermore, they could allow the operator to handle loads on either side of an aisle without re-entering and exiting the aisle.
Turret trucks are usually wire or rail guided when they are used in very narrow aisles. This way, the operator doesn't need to focus any energy on their driving skills and could focus on the work load at hand. Since turret trucks are considered "operator-up" trucks, they are able to be utilized for picking cases and items as well as full pallet handling.