Purchasing a stacker is a significant investment that directly impacts your business's efficiency, safety, and profitability. With so many models, brands, and features available, making the right choice can be confusing. Focusing solely on price or appearance can lead to operational nightmares and unexpected costs in the long run.
Capacity: How Much Load Will You Be Carrying?
Consider: What is the weight of the heaviest pallet you typically handle? Add a safety margin of at least 20% to this weight. For example, if your heaviest load is 800 kg, you should look for a machine with a capacity of at least 1000 kg (1 ton). Izmir Demir Lift offers models tailored to specific needs, such as a "1-ton semi-electric stacker."
Remember: A machine's capacity is directly related to its load center. The further the load extends, the less weight the machine can safely lift. Check this information in the machine's technical data sheet.
Lift Height (Mast Type): Where Should Your Loads Reach?
- Take Measurements: What is the height of the top shelf in your warehouse? Add at least 15-20 cm to this height for maneuverability and safety.
- Understand Lift Types: Duplex (two-stage) and triplex (three-stage) lifts have different closed and open heights. If you're looking for a machine that needs to pass through low ceilings or doorways, be sure to check the machine's "closed height" (the height when the lift is fully retracted).
- Dimensions and Maneuverability: How Wide is Your Work Area?
- Aisle Width: Measure the width of your narrowest work aisle. The "turning radius" (Ast) value specified in the machine's specifications indicates the minimum aisle width required for the machine to turn 90 degrees. This value is vital for operational smoothness. The search for a "stack truck for narrow aisles" is particularly relevant to this metric.
- Overall Dimensions: The overall length and width of the machine determine whether it can operate in congested areas.
- Battery and Charging Specifications: How Long Will You Be Working?
- Use Intensity: How many hours per day do you plan to use the machine? Semi-electric machines generally have sufficient battery capacity for medium-intensity work, while full-time or shift work may require larger-capacity batteries or fully electric models with spare battery options.
- Charging Type: Models with an "on-board charger" offer the flexibility of charging from any standard outlet. This is a great convenience for small businesses. Know the battery's full charge time and the operating time on a single charge.
Wheel Selection: What Are Your Floor Conditions?
- Polyurethane Wheels: This is the most common type. Ideal for flat, smooth warehouse floors. They are durable and non-marking.
- Rubber Wheels: Can provide better traction and a more comfortable ride on rougher or slightly uneven surfaces.
- Safety Equipment: Is Your Operator and Business Safe?
- Check: Does the machine have standard safety features such as an emergency reverse button (belly button), an emergency stop button (switch), a horn, a parking brake, and a protective grille to prevent loads from falling on the forks? Compliance with international safety standards such as CE certification provides a significant indication of the machine's reliability.
Service, Warranty, and Spare Parts: What Will Happen After Sales?
Warranty: How long is the machine's warranty? Commitments like the "2-Year Warranty" we offer at Izmir Demir Lift demonstrate the manufacturer's confidence in its product.
Service Network: How quickly can you receive technical service in the event of a malfunction? Companies that produce 100% domestically typically have a significant advantage in spare parts availability and service speed. Having a contact person you can reach when needed prevents disruptions to your operations.
By carefully considering these critical points, you will not only choose a machine for your business, but also the right business partner that will support your productivity and safety for years to come.
