A lateral forklift, more commonly known as a side loader or sideloader, is a specialized type of lift truck designed to handle, transport, and store long, heavy, and bulky loads that would be difficult or dangerous for a standard front-loading forklift. Unlike a conventional forklift that carries loads in front, a lateral forklift picks up and carries the load from the side. By moving the load parallel to the direction of travel, it dramatically improves stability and maneuverability in tight spaces.
Key Benefits and Advantages
Superior Long Load Handling – Lateral forklifts are purpose-built for timber, steel beams, pipes, and other long materials.
Space Efficiency in Narrow Aisles – Moving loads sideways allows these forklifts to operate in aisles as narrow as 1.8 meters, boosting storage density and warehouse capacity.
Enhanced Stability and Safety – Carrying long loads on a side bed keeps the center of gravity low and stable, reducing tip-over risks.
Unobstructed Operator Visibility – The operator has a clear view of the load and surroundings, improving safety.
Types of Lateral Forklifts
Multidirectional Forklifts – These can move forward, backward, sideways, and diagonally. They are 3-in-1 machines combining a side loader, counterbalance, and narrow aisle forklift.
Dedicated Sideloaders – Built with a side-loading deck and forks mounted on the side of the chassis.
Narrow Aisle Sideloaders – Designed specifically for extremely tight racking systems.
Electric Sideloaders – Zero-emission models for indoor and environmentally sensitive operations.
Major Manufacturers
Combilift – The world's largest manufacturer of multidirectional forklifts, with over 85,000 units sold across 85+ countries. Their Combi-CB155E is a compact electric multi-directional model with 15,500 lb capacity.
HUBTEX – Specializes in multidirectional sideloaders for long loads and very narrow aisles. Their PHOENIX model features customizable cab and aisle guidance systems.
Baumann – A dedicated sideloader manufacturer, offering excellent visibility and stability for long loads. The operator cab is on the front left, with the load deck positioned to the right.
Applications
Timber and Lumber Yards – Originally developed for the timber industry.
Steel and Metal Service Centers – Moving billets, bars, and structural sections.
Pipe and Profile Storage – Ideal for construction materials and warehouses with long loads.
Intermodal Transport – Transferring containers between trucks, trailers, and railcars.
The bottom line: A lateral forklift (sideloader) is a specialized machine for moving long, heavy loads sideways. It offers superior stability, space efficiency, and safety compared to standard forklifts. Major manufacturers include Combilift (the global leader), HUBTEX, and Baumann. Choose a lateral forklift if you regularly handle timber, steel, pipes, or other long materials in narrow aisles or confined spaces.