In the world of materials handling, sideloaders play a crucial role wherever long, heavy or awkward loads need to be moved efficiently. From timber yards and steel distributors to warehouse aisles and outdoor storage yards. At HUBTEX, we supply world-class sideloaders and multidirectional forklifts designed to meet the diverse needs of modern industries. But when it comes to choosing electric or LPG sideloaders, how do you decide which is best for your application?
What Is a Sideloader?
Unlike conventional forklifts that pick up pallets from the front, sideloaders handle loads from the side, making them ideal for long, bulky stock such as timber, pipe, steel sections, sheet materials, and other oversized goods. Because they orient loads lengthwise, sideloaders can operate in narrow aisles, reduce storage aisle widths, and increase warehouse capacity.
Environmental awareness has become a key consideration in warehouse logistics, driven in part by increasing automation and the shift toward electric equipment. HUBTEX offer electric sideloaders for every application.
Electric Sideloaders: What are the Benefits?
Electric sideloaders, such as the PhoeniX, MaxX and BasiX series are becoming increasingly popular across a wide range of industries. As economical alternatives to LPG and Diesel models, here we take a look at some of the key benefits.
Zero On-Site Emissions – Unlike LPG and diesel models, electric sideloaders produce no exhaust fumes, making them ideal for indoor facilities and environmentally conscious operations. They reduce CO² emissions by 45 to 55 percent compared to diesel and gas-powered forklifts.
Lower Operating Costs – Electricity is generally cheaper than fuel, and electric drive systems have fewer moving parts. This leads to less wear and lower maintenance costs.
Quiet Operation – Electric sideloaders reduce noise levels and improve workplace comfort and safety, whilst also combating heat pollution. Not only for warehouse operatives, but for those in nearby offices.
Great Manoeuvrability – HX steering systems offer excellent control in narrow aisles and close-quarters warehouses.
Efficient and Consistent Power – Similar to LPG, electric sideloaders provide smooth, reliable performance, making them well suited to medium to heavy loads across a wide range of applications.
Flexible Indoor and Outdoor Use – Offering an economical alternative to diesel & gas, the MaxX multidirectional sideloaders are ideal for operations that move between indoor and outdoor areas, with powerful batteries and ergonomic operator cabins.
Making the Right Choice
At HUBTEX, we understand that every operation is unique, that’s why we don’t offer one-size-fits-all solutions. Our range of electric sideloaders can be tailored to your industry, site layout and workflow, whether you’re optimising warehouse space, upgrading your fleet for sustainability or powering outdoor materials handling.
To make an informed decision, it is essential to consider the total cost of ownership (TCO). While multidirectional forklifts with combustion engines are often more affordable to purchase initially, fuel costs for gas or diesel are considerably higher than electricity. In addition, increased wear, maintenance, and repair requirements result in higher ongoing service costs. These factors should be carefully weighed to ensure optimal performance, cost efficiency, and the longest possible service life.
Looking at the CO² emissions highlights further differences. Electric trucks boast significantly lower CO² emissions. Even with hydraulic steering as standard, they reduce CO² emissions by 45 to 55 percent compared to diesel and gas-powered forklifts. Therefore, if the focus is on sustainable warehouse logistics, then the forklift truck with an electric drive is the sensible option.
Our experts are here to help you choose the machine that delivers the best performance, lowest operating costs and greatest efficiency for your needs.
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