Sideloader Forklifts

Forklift side loaders, or sideloader forklifts, are perfectly adapted to handling particularly long loads. They lift from the side, as the name suggests, so loads can project front and rear and therefore be carried down aisles or through doorways.

Sideloaders are designed to work in narrower aisles and doorways. In an instance where a counterbalance forklift may not fit with the load carried across the machine, a sideloader forklift is often the best option. It is especially effective when handling long loads such as timber, steel sections or piping. They carry their load on the side, allowing the operator a clear view of what is in front and behind them. This is ideal in an environment where large items need to be carried in narrow spaces.

Types of Sideloader Forklift

There are three types of sideloader forklift.

The first has a large open bay with a mast and fork carriage built to travel perpendicular to the truck.

The second type of forklift sideloader (often called a 4-way) slides the forks underneath the load and then turns its wheels to manoeuvre in any direction. This is a combination of a reach forklift and a counterbalance forklift.

The third and final side loader forklift is sometimes called a front sideloader and it faces forwards just like a counterbalance forklift. The front mast can swing 90° to allow the forks to extend from the side. This means that the load can be transported parallel to the direction the forklift is travelling in.

Benefits of Side Loading Forklifts

Sideloaders don’t need to turn like standard forklifts, so they can drive up alongside the rack or the truck and easily unload and load from the side. Long loads such as timber, steel or pipes are more easily handled because the load is facing in the direction of travel. This reduces the overall width of the load.

The low deck and high cabin placed to the side of the load means the driver has an unobstructed view in front and behind. Sideloaders tend to operate in narrow-aisle situations and can often move between outside and inside environments.

With their deck to carry goods, sideloaders can also be a good solution for moving loads distances across site, so can work as a useful alternative to a tow tractor.

Multi-directional and four-way side loaders can handle 1-ton to 55-ton loads, and you can find models that run on battery, gas or diesel fuel.

At PHL, we stock sideloader forklifts including Linde, Combilift, Commander, Boss, Valmar and other top-quality brands. All of the forklifts have been inspected thoroughly and have quality checks carried out. This ensures that the entire range of forklifts we stock is of the highest standard possible and can be delivered to you ready to work.