Why Choose an Articulated Forklift? Benefits, Uses & Buying Guide
Making the most of your warehouse space is essential for improving productivity and reducing operating costs. As storage demands increase, many businesses are looking for ways to maximise capacity without moving to larger premises. That’s where articulated forklifts offer a significant advantage.
Combining the lifting capabilities of a counterbalance forklift with the manoeuvrability of a narrow aisle truck, articulated forklifts are designed to work efficiently in confined spaces while maintaining impressive lifting performance. If you’re considering a used articulated forklift, this guide explains everything you need to know before making your investment.
What is an Articulated Forklift?
An articulated forklift features a pivoting front section that allows the mast and forks to turn independently from the main body of the truck. This unique steering system enables operators to pick up and place loads while working in much narrower aisles than would be possible with a conventional counterbalance forklift.
Unlike reach trucks, articulated forklifts can often load and unload vehicles as well as work inside warehouses, making them a versatile solution for businesses that need one truck for multiple applications.
Where are Articulated Forklifts Used?
Articulated forklifts are widely used in businesses where warehouse space is limited and efficient storage is a priority.
Typical applications include:
- Warehouses
- Distribution centres
- Manufacturing facilities
- Builders’ merchants
- Wholesale operations
- Food and beverage storage
- Retail distribution
- Logistics companies
They’re particularly popular in facilities looking to increase storage density by reducing aisle widths while maintaining efficient pallet handling.
Benefits of an Articulated Forklift
- Excellent Manoeuvrability – The articulated steering system allows operators to work comfortably in narrow aisles, making it easier to access pallet locations while reducing unnecessary movements.
- Increased Storage Capacity – By reducing aisle widths, businesses can install additional racking and create more storage space without expanding their warehouse footprint.
- Versatile Operation – Many articulated forklifts are capable of working both indoors and outdoors on suitable surfaces, allowing businesses to use a single truck for loading vehicles and storing goods.
- High Lift Performance – Articulated forklifts are designed to lift pallets safely to significant heights, making them ideal for warehouses with high-level racking.
- Improved Productivity – Their combination of manoeuvrability and lifting capability allows operators to move goods more efficiently, helping reduce travel time and improve overall workflow.
Are There Any Limitations?
Although articulated forklifts are highly versatile, they may not be the best option for every business.
Operations that primarily involve transporting loads over long distances outdoors or working on uneven terrain may be better suited to diesel counterbalance forklifts or rough terrain machines.
For warehouses handling standard palletised goods in narrow aisles, however, articulated forklifts are often one of the most efficient solutions available.
Choosing the Right Articulated Forklift
Selecting the right articulated forklift depends on your warehouse layout and operational requirements.
Before making a purchase, consider:
- Required lifting capacity
- Maximum lift height
- Warehouse aisle widths
- Racking configuration
- Daily operating hours
- Indoor and outdoor use
- Floor conditions
- Attachment requirements
Carefully assessing these factors will help ensure you choose a forklift that meets both your current needs and future growth plans.
Buying a Used Articulated Forklift
A quality used articulated forklift can provide excellent value, allowing businesses to benefit from advanced warehouse handling capabilities at a more affordable price.
Maintaining an Articulated Forklift
Routine servicing is essential for maintaining both performance and safety.
Regular maintenance should include:
- Inspecting the articulation joint
- Checking steering components
- Examining hydraulic hoses and cylinders
- Monitoring tyre condition
- Testing brakes and safety systems
- Lubricating moving parts
- Inspecting forks and mast components
- Carrying out scheduled servicing
A preventative maintenance programme helps reduce downtime while extending the working life of your forklift.
Articulated Forklift vs Reach Truck
Businesses looking to maximise warehouse storage often compare articulated forklifts with reach trucks.
A reach truck is designed specifically for indoor warehouse use and performs exceptionally well in high racking and narrow aisles. However, it is generally limited to smooth indoor surfaces.
An articulated forklift offers similar narrow aisle performance while providing greater flexibility. Many models can also load and unload vehicles or work outdoors on suitable surfaces, reducing the need for multiple machines.
The best choice depends on your warehouse layout, working environment, and operational requirements.
Why Choose North West Forktrucks?
At North West Forktrucks, we supply quality used articulated forklifts from leading manufacturers, helping businesses across the UK improve warehouse efficiency and maximise storage capacity.
Every truck is carefully inspected before sale, giving you confidence that you’re investing in reliable equipment that’s ready to perform. We also offer nationwide delivery, flexible finance options, and ongoing support.
Find the Right Articulated Forklift
If you’re looking to improve warehouse productivity while making better use of your available space, an articulated forklift could be the ideal solution.
Browse our latest stock of quality used articulated forklifts or contact North West Forktrucks today. Our experienced team will help you choose the right truck for your warehouse and operational requirements.
──── Latest Stock
View Our Articulated Forklifts
Browse our latest selection of used Articulated Forklifts below, or view our full stock here.
2019 Aisle Master 15SE
£6,950.00
Capacity: 1500 kg, Hours: 5218, Lift Height: 4750mm, Mast: Triplex
2011 Aisle Master 15E
£5,950.00
Capacity: 1500 kg, Hours: 3699, Lift Height: 4300mm, Mast: Triplex
2009 Bendi BE420-90SS
£5,450.00
Capacity: 4200 kg, Hours: 12469, Lift Height: 9000mm, Mast: Triplex
2017 Aisle Master 20S
£4,950.00
Capacity: 2000 kg, Hours: 4986, Lift Height: 6000mm, Mast: Triplex
2015 Aisle Master 25WE
£6,950.00
Capacity: 2500 kg, Hours: 7851, Lift Height: 6650mm, Mast: Triplex
2015 Aisle Master 25WE
£6,950.00
Capacity: 2500 kg, Hours: 7451, Lift Height: 6650mm, Mast: Triplex
2004 Narrow Aisle FLEXI
£5,450.00
Capacity: 1250 kg, Hours: 6505, Lift Height: 7620mm, Mast: Triplex