The Importance of Component Compatibility
Many warehouse operators select a manual stacker based solely on its load capacity. However, if the support legs cannot clear your pallets or the forks cannot adapt to your boxes, the machine cannot be used. Here, we outline the technical checks you must perform to choose the right manual stacker for your warehouse.
1. Check Your Pallet Style (Open vs. Closed-Bottom)
In the material handling industry, pallets are generally divided into open-bottom (no bottom boards) and closed-bottom (double-faced with bottom boards) designs.
- Standard Manual Stackers: Models such as our CTY-E, CTY-D, and CTY-A feature support legs directly beneath the forks. These can only lift open-bottom pallets because the support legs will block or damage the bottom boards of double-faced pallets.
- Adjustable Straddle Legs: If you use double-faced or closed-bottom pallets, you require the CTY Stretchable Leg Manual Stacker (models CTY-C1T-II and CTY-C2T-II). The legs on this model can be adjusted outward from 1000mm to 1500mm, allowing them to wrap around the outside of the pallet.
2. Assess Fork Width and Length Requirements
Ensure the stacker's forks can slide into your pallet entry pockets:
- Adjustable Forks: Our CTY-E series offers adjustable fork widths ranging from 330mm to 680mm, with a standard fork length of 1150mm. Our CTY-D models offer fork widths from 330mm to 680mm (255mm to 580mm for CTY-D05) with a standard fork length of 1000mm.
- Platform Lifting: If you handle loose boxes, cargo parcels, or small crates, a platform is more suitable. The COT-QB Platform Stacker features a removable platform of size 685mm x 580mm with a load capacity of 400kg.
3. Match Aisle Clearance and Turning Space
Measure your racking aisle spacing before selecting a model. Manual stackers are highly compact, but the overall length must be accounted for. For instance, the CTY-E10 has an overall length of 1670mm and width of 760mm, while the CTY-D10 has an overall length of 1440mm and width of 760mm, allowing them to turn easily in narrow warehouse corridors.
Summary of Selection Parameters
Start by identifying your pallet type (open or double-faced), measure the inside width you need for straddle legs, check the maximum weight of your load, and verify your racking aisle space. Taking these steps will help you choose a manual stacker that fits your operations perfectly.