Stacker vs Forklift: Which One to Choose?

Both electric stackers and forklifts are used to move palletised goods. If you are planning to purchase pallet handling equipment for your warehouse for this purpose, here is a comparison between the two to help determine which one is best for you.

Difference between a stacker and a forklift

The difference between a stacker and a forklift is that a stacker is slightly different from a forklift truck, while a forklift is a general forklift and the goods are forklifted in the factory. Stacker cars are more common. Those high lifting forklifts are good access machines, also known as stackers, for automated warehouse cranes.

The means of stacking is to pile the goods higher and higher into a stack. A stacker is a wheeled vehicle used for loading, unloading, stacking, stacking and short distance transport. A forklift is a type of industrial transport vehicle. It refers to a variety of wheeled vehicles used for loading, unloading, stacking and short-distance transport of palletised goods.

Mobile Stacker

What is a Forklift?

Forklifts are probably the most commonly used material handling equipment in industrial spaces. There are various types of forklifts on the market such as diesel forklifts, electric forklifts and LPG forklifts. Each type of forklift has advantages and disadvantages, and it depends on your business operations and priorities as to which type is better.If space is not as important, forklifts are usually the most commonly used as they are usually meant and built to be able to transport heavy loads. The operator of a forklift usually sits inside the vehicle itself while operating it.

What is a stacker?

Stackers are the simplest storage solution for warehouses. A stacker crane is exactly what the name suggests - it is a machine or device used to stack, load or unload goods in a warehouse or storage area. The stacker has the same chassis and mast as a pallet truck. It is designed to present a dual function. It transports, lifts and lowers goods in and out of racks for storage or retrieval.

The stacker is also designed to handle bulk materials. This is why they are ideal for large warehouses, manufacturing units, retail units and factories dealing with high volume storage.

There are three types of stackers: manual stackers, semi-electric stackers and electric stackers.

Whilst the other two variants require physical labour to some extent, the electric stacker crane is completely battery powered. It does not require any physical exertion to operate.

Tracked Stacker

Why use an electric stacker?

Easier to recharge

Electric stackers are much easier to charge than forklifts. The reason for this is that they can be connected to standard mains electricity for charging. Unlike electric stackers, forklifts usually require a dedicated power outlet, which can cost you extra.

Compact size

Compared to forklifts, electric stackers are much smaller. This makes them ideal for smaller warehouses and areas with limited space.

In addition, electric stackers are also more flexible than forklifts. This means that they have better manoeuvrability, so they can be moved and turned around easily in tight spaces.

No licence required

Yes, you read that right. Operators do not need a permit to operate electric stackers. However, prior training of your operator is recommended to ensure safety.

Cost-effective

The cost of purchasing a powered pallet stacker is significantly lower than purchasing a forklift. So if you are looking for a cost-effective alternative, powered pallet stackers are perfect for you.

Electric stackers vs forklifts: which is better?

Electric stackers are easier and less labour intensive to use, especially in tight spaces, whereas forklifts are better suited to large industrial applications. However, depending on your operation and the loads you are handling, the decision is yours. We hope this comparison will help you to determine which equipment you need.

If you need an stacker, Zoomry can help you. We are a trusted manufacturer and supplier of material handling equipment. For more information, please contact us today.

The source is from here.