Tall order: No problem

Furniture orders are despatched from a large distribution centre in Yorkshire. Next uses two Aisle-Masters to ensure more efficient handling and storage of pallets of mattresses in high bay racking. 

MHE manager Next Distribution Harry Dooley said: “This is a very specific application in one section of the warehouse where we are dealing with unusual sized loads and need trucks capable of safe and productive handling in the space available. Having looked at what was out there on the market we decided that the Aisle-Master was the ideal truck for the job.” 

The pallets containing up to five mattresses measure 2 x 1.8m and weigh about 350kg. For maximum storage density to be achieved they need to be lifted to a top bay height of almost 15m. The Aisle-Master’s ability to lift to this impressive height was a major factor in the decision making process.  

The two AM20WHE models are fitted with high lift quad masts and the double mast mounting is said to guarantee utmost stability when placing or picking in the top bays. The low closed mast height enables the trucks to travel through doorways for easy access to the collection area. Fluorescent tips on the forks and a camera fixed at fork height enable the forks to be clearly visible in low light and to be in the operators’ line of vison at all times. 

Harry Dooley sums up: “We have been impressed with the Aisle-Masters’ performance and reliability and we were equally impressed by the service from the factory when it came to initial advice, the demo and ongoing contact with the manufacturers.”