A Move in the Right Direction
October 10th 2007 Combilift Ltd, the manufacturer of the world’s first engine-powered multidirectional forklift, is the global leader in the long load handling market, with 6,000 units in operation around the world. The Combilift range of models works as “3 machines in 1” and the Combilift concept has now become a byword for the safe and space-saving handling of long and bulky loads.
The original C4000 4 tonne capacity Combilift is still a very popular choice, with the company’s range currently encompassing 15 models.
Safe Space saver
The Combilift’s ability to work inside and out, directly from delivery truck to internal cantilever racking, for example, has facilitated maximum use of all vertical space in undercover storage areas, in line with many suppliers’ needs to move away from outdoor free stacking. Combilift guided rail systems are now a recognised solution for speeding up picking whilst protecting the product and racks from damage. Using Combilifts also greatly improves health and safety practices. Its 4- way capability enables low-level transportation in aisles as narrow as 2m and the low platform maximises rack space utilisation. The Combilift’s ability to handle long loads through narrow doorways eliminates hazardous high-level manoeuvres above racking, machinery and other obstacles, reducing risk to personnel and stock.
New Models
The family of Combilifts continues to grow, with models now spanning a range of lift capacities from 2.5 to 14 tonnes, with LPG, diesel or electric power available. A recent addition to the range has been the Combilift 4-way sideloader, with load capacities of 5 or 6t. This was developed after feedback from traditional sideloader users indicated the requirement for a more manoeuvrable machine which could provide better storage density and block stack, whilst still able to work in their pre-existing aisle widths. The wide variety of lift capacities, mast heights, platform dimensions and range of attachments offered by Combilift means that in effect practically every forklift is purposebuilt to provide a truly customised handling solution.
Building on Success
Combilift opened its new purpose built manufacturing facility on a 46 acre site in Monaghan in 2006. The new headquarters include a manufacturing facility capable of producing 2,000 Combilifts per year on a single shift basis, a customer visitor centre and a dedicated separate R & D block. Combilift invests 9% of its annual turnover in R&D, and MD Martin McVicar believes that it is this commitment to ongoing product development, as well as an open ear for customer feedback that have been key to the company’s success. A team of design engineers at the Monaghan factory in Ireland will also draw up free warehouse layouts to illustrate the best possible use of available storage space using the Combilift system. More articles from Combilift Limited: | 
