Within fast-paced warehouse operations, managers constantly look for ways to streamline operations and increase productivity. Even though lift trucks and conveyor systems typically receive primary focus, numerous managers miss the real-world benefits of burden carriers: versatile, compact vehicles designed specifically for horizontal material transport.

What Are Burden Carriers?

Burden carriers are battery-powered vehicles featuring flat cargo decks. As opposed to forklifts, which specialize in vertical lifting, burden carriers are used in swiftly moving bulky or heavy loads across large warehouse facilities. Designed for maneuverability, they can traverse narrow aisles and busy environments easily, making them especially well-suited for urban warehouses where space is limited.

Most burden carriers deliver impressive capabilities:

• Payloads spanning several hundred to several thousand pounds
• Towing capabilities that can surpass most pickup trucks
• Flexible configurations for carrying materials, tools, or personnel

Key Advantages for Warehouses

1. Improved Productivity

In the fast-paced logistics sector of Lathrop and surrounding areas, time is money. Burden carriers minimize transit times for materials, enabling operators to move multiple items in a single trip while decreasing reliance on slower manual methods. With far less walking and fewer trips necessary, staff can dedicate time to value-added activities.

2. Efficient Use of Space

Rising real estate costs make every square foot in Lathrop warehouses count. The compact size and responsive handling of burden carriers allow you to use narrow aisles and crowded docks more efficiently, increasing storage density without compromising safety or productivity.

3. Budget-Friendly Solution

As opposed to buying additional forklifts, which could be overkill for some tasks, burden carriers represent a more affordable alternative that's specifically designed for horizontal material handling. They're also typically simpler to maintain, with electric power translating to fewer moving parts and lower operating costs.

4. More Sustainable and Safer Operations

With electric power comes zero local emissions and quieter operation, fostering a healthier, safer environment for your team. Lower operating speeds and better visibility reduce collision risks, reinforcing a strong safety culture.

Typical Applications

• Material Transport: Move parts, packaging, or finished goods rapidly between storage, docks, and production areas.
• Order Picking: Optimize order fulfillment by permitting pickers to load and collect items directly onto the carrier.
• Personnel Transport: Transport supervisors or maintenance staff across large sites to reduce travel time and decrease fatigue.

Implementation Insights

Success with burden carriers starts with a clear understanding of your facility's specific needs. Consider:

• Load size and weight
• Turning clearances and aisle widths
• Required travel distances

Integration is uncomplicated, but planning for charging stations and operator training will work to maximize uptime and ROI.

Why Consider Burden Carriers Now?

Labor shortages and rising operational costs are driving the need for more efficient solutions in Lathrop warehouses. Burden carriers deliver a versatile and affordable way to move people and materials, allowing your team remain efficient and competitive in a formidable market.

Interested in learning how burden carriers can transform your operation?

Get in touch with Raymond West to discuss your unique requirements. Our team understands the challenges encountered by warehouse and logistics professionals and can recommend the best burden carrier solutions to help you achieve your goals.

Raymond West's Phoenix facility serves the entire Phoenix Metro area, including Phoenix, Tempe, Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, Scottsdale, Glendale, Goodyear, Tolleson, Peoria and all surrounding areas.

Raymond West | Phoenix Material Handling Equipment Supplier

2659 E Magnolia St
Phoenix, AZ 85034
(602) 275-2228