Things to Consider When Buying a Warehouse Stacker

Transporting heavy loads around the warehouse can be an extremely taxing task if you don’t have the right equipment. While forklifts are still the best kind of load transporting equipment in the warehouse, electric stackers come pretty close too. Unlike forklifts, electric stackers don’t require a license, yet they can still be used to perform the same tasks. However, similarly to the forklift market, the electric stacker market is pretty large, and there are countless different models to pick from.

First and foremost, when looking for a stacker electric model, you need to consider its lifting capacity. This will depend on the type of products you need to transport, and their quantity. If you primarily stack small products that don’t weight much, then a stacker with a 300kg capacity will be just fine. However, you’ll also find stackers that can lift 1T+, and these are best suited for heavyweight products.

Next, you need to consider the stacker electric model maximum height. Depending on how high your racking system and stored items are, the ideal maximum stacker height for your warehouse needs will vary greatly. You can find stackers that can reach as high as 3m. However, you have to keep in mind that the lifting height of your stacker will impact its lifting capacity. That being said, check how much weight the stacker can hold at its highest to see if that matches your specific needs.

Furthermore, depending on the type of loads you need to lift, you can choose between platform and fork stackers. If you’re working with skids or pallets exclusively, then forks are the ideal choice. However, forks are typically adjustable and they can probably handle a wider range of loads. On the other hand, if you’re working with loads like cartons and boxes, then platforms are probably the better choice.

But electric stackers aren’t your only choice. There are hand-powered models that are operated using a hand pump. Consider how often you’ll need to use the stacker – if you’re going to use it extensively, then an electric model is the better option. Of course, there are also hybrid models that combine the best of both worlds, and they’re great for commercial and maintenance applications.

Lastly, consider its features. Nowadays, stackers have a wide range of safety functions, they are fully automatic and feature height sensors. These monitor the height of the top layer of the product that’s on top of the fork, automatically lowering or raising the machines as needed to maintain the predetermined height.