Documenting reach trucks for a buyer's warehouse
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A reach truck can be unsuitable for a buyer's warehouse even when its general capacity looks appropriate. Mast clearance, dimensions and the operating environment need to be considered together. The seller should provide traceable configuration information and make the limits of any measurements clear.
Do not assume that a model name identifies one fixed mast arrangement. Establish what is fitted to the actual truck being sold.
Prepare a dimension sheet with sources
Begin with the exact truck and mast identifiers. Record dimensions in millimetres and keep the manufacturer's definition beside each number.
| Field | What it describes | Value | Source or unresolved question |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lowered mast height | Height of the mast when fully collapsed | Enter verified mm | Exact mast document, or unknown |
| Maximum extended mast height | Highest mast assembly position at full extension | Enter verified mm | Note whether the quoted arrangement includes a load backrest |
| Lift height | Fork lifting reach under the manufacturer's measurement convention | Enter verified mm | Do not substitute overall mast height; retain diagram and reference point |
| Free lift | Fork rise available before the collapsed mast needs to extend | Enter verified mm | Confirm mast option and any backrest qualification |
| Overhead guard or cab height | A separate possible restriction on passing height | Enter verified mm | Actual cab option or measured observation |
| Width, length and aisle requirements | Space needed for the documented truck and load arrangement | Enter verified mm | Record load dimensions and the source assumptions |
Toyota's mast guide explains collapsed height and free lift. The Linde R14-R20 G specification shows why lowered height, free lift, lift and extended height occupy separate fields. It illustrates the distinctions; its dimensions must not be copied onto another truck.
Label seller measurements with the method and date. An unknown value is more useful than a number borrowed from the wrong mast option.
Explain the configuration in the photographs
Show the whole truck and its mast arrangement where safe to do so. Keep close-ups of identifiers linked to the same truck. Do not raise equipment simply to obtain an impressive photograph without the appropriate authorised operator and safe arrangements.
The forklift dossier holds the wider records. The attachment guide addresses capacity information when an attachment forms part of the lot. A dimension sheet does not replace those checks.
Let the buyer compare the complete route
The buyer needs more than the height of the warehouse roof. Doorways, thresholds, working routes and the intended storage arrangement may all affect suitability. The receiving-site space and access guide provides a practical survey structure.
HSE's warehouse guidance addresses suitable handling equipment and safe routes. Use it to frame competent planning. Do not infer that a truck is safe for a particular aisle merely because a quoted width appears smaller than the available gap.
For a fictional example, a buyer may have ample space in the main storage area but a low doorway on the delivery route. That restriction must be assessed before purchase and transport. The example illustrates why a single headline dimension is not a sufficient fit check.
Keep claims within the evidence
If the seller lacks the exact configuration documents, ask the manufacturer or a suitable specialist. Record the gap while the enquiry is open. Avoid copying dimensions from a different mast option to make the catalogue complete.
The HSE lift truck guidance provides the wider management, training and examination framework. It is not a model-specific specification source.
Send UK Auction Group the completed dimension sheet with its source references and the remaining questions. Buyers can then assess the actual truck and arrange the necessary site or specialist checks before committing.
Sources
- HSE warehousing and storage guide Checked
- HSE lift truck guidance Checked
- Toyota mast guide Checked
- Linde R14-R20 G reach truck specification Checked
This guide gives general information. Equipment-specific, legal, tax and safety decisions may need a qualified adviser or competent specialist. The guides do not promise sale prices, fees or results.