A Very Narrow Aisle (VNA) forklift is a specialized lift truck designed for operating in extremely narrow aisles in warehouses. With a compact design and advanced maneuverability, VNA forklifts can work efficiently in spaces as narrow as 1.5 meters, maximizing storage capacity. They are typically used for high stacking and retrieving pallets in tightly confined areas.
VNA forklifts with a 180-degree rotating fork carriage can be equipped with hydraulic extendable forklift forks. This can be useful if the pallet configuration changes and an additional distance needs to be bridged from the machine to the rack. For forklifts with an articulated mast, the use of KOOI® ReachForks is more common as they can move heavier loads, making them ideal for double-deep applications.
When turning with long fixed forklift forks, it’s harder to insert them into the fork pockets, requiring a large turning radius. With retracted reach forks, the turning radius is approximately 30% shorter, reducing the risk of hitting the pallet blocks.
Placing pallets double-deep in warehouses saves an aisle, freeing up as much as more than 40% additional pallet spaces.
For customers who work with various pallet sizes using a VNA forklift, ReachForks offer a great solution. These forks can be adjusted to different lengths, eliminating the need to purchase multiple VNA machines.
In principle, they should be compatible, but it depends on the forklift manufacturer, as an additional hydraulic function often needs to be connected to the telescopic forks. This process can be easier with some brands of VNA forklifts than with others.
This depends entirely on the forklift model. For a forklift with a swivel mast, the maximum weight is approximately 250 kg, whereas forklifts with a rotating mast can handle up to 1000 kg. Your forklift supplier can provide more specific information.
Yes, ReachForks are already offered as a standard option by various European and American forklift manufacturers. The applications can vary; ReachForks can be used for handling different pallet configurations or for double-deep applications.
When a pallet is pushed forward, the distance between the pallet and the forklift increases. This typically requires using a heavier forklift for one-sided loading and unloading. The reason is that the pallet’s center of gravity shifts, and the forklift needs to maintain balance with the extended pallet to prevent tipping. Additionally, the hydraulically operated extendable forks need a 4th function, which many forklift brands offer as a standard or optional feature. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult with your forklift supplier, who will likely be familiar with our KOOI® ReachForks since they are also supplied directly to most forklift manufacturers. If you need local assistance contact your local KOOI® Dealer: