Aisle-Master Centre Stage at CFT
POSTED: 2:55 p.m. EDT, January 31,2007
When Rochdale based warehousing and distribution company CFT opened a second depot in the West Midlands, it made sure it got off to the perfect start handling-wise by basing the layout of its storage area and racking configuration around the capabilities of an Aisle-Master articulated forklift.
CFT's new operation at Wednesbury distributes a wide variety of palletised goods to customers across the West Midlands region from its 30,000ft2 warehouse. MD Chris Flynn was keen to find a much more flexible and space saving alternative to a counterbalance forklift, and when he spotted an Aisle-Master at an exhibition he realised he need search no further.
The versatility offered by CFT's LPG powered Aisle-Master has enabled a current total of 1,500 pallet locations to fit comfortably in the warehouse, and the narrow aisle widths leave room for further racking to be installed in conjunction with the ongoing growth of the company. From an operational point of view, General Manager Andy Czernuska could not be more pleased: "The Aisle-Master's articulated concept and its versatility has greatly speeded up stock rotation. As it works both inside and out it has also drastically reduced the time needed to take loads to and from the trucks and storage bays."
Aisle-Master Ltd not only offers a range of LPG and electric powered articulated trucks, but also gives specialist advice on warehouse design and racking configuration, and this expertise was applied at CFT's new premises to achieve the best possible storage density from the outset. In common with many other Aisle-Master customers, CFT is a member of Pallet-Track, offering a flexible service for customers no matter how large or small their consignments. As business continues to expand, CFT can rely on this all-round forklift to keep pace with the extra workload involved.
CFTÕs drivers found the Aisle-Master articulated system quick to adjust to, and praise its easy operation. The truck's robust construction, excellent visibility from the cab, high quality suspension seat, adjustable steering column and lack of rear end swing when manoeuvering all contribute to a safer and more comfortable working environment for operators.
Aisle-Masters can work in aisles of just 1.75m, with capacities to 2 tonnes and lift heights of up to 11.5 metres. All LPG models are fitted with 3-way catalytic converters as standard, with CNG power also an option. Build quality and a track record of superb reliability is a key feature of the Aisle-Master range. A dedicated in-house R&D team at the company's facility in Ireland is responsible for prototype building and testing and puts all new trucks through a strenuous and detailed test programme before they leave the factory. |
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