Most Popular Forklift Attachments: #1 Side Shifter

What do material handling operations and NASCAR pit crews have in common? If you work in a warehouse or distribution center, the answer is obvious. If you want to be the best, you have to move fast and get the job done right the first time.

That’s why we’re writing a series of articles about the best forklift attachments. Adding an attachment is the easiest way to move more product in less time without compromising safety.

Today we’re going to take a look at one of the most popular forklift attachments: the side shifter. You probably already know what a sideshifter is. If not, you'll be amazed how this simple addition can significantly boost operator productivity.

What is a side shift forklift attachment?

A forklift side shift attachment allows the operator to move the forks laterally from left to right. Instead of jockeying the forklift into the correct position to pick up a pallet, the operator simply nudges the forks into the ideal position. In addition to Hang-On Hook and Integral sideshifters, we also offer:

• Hook to Shaft — with a versatile pin-type fork mounting
• Double Side Shifter — so you can effectively lift, transport, split or join double pallet loads

4 Money-Saving Reasons to Use a Side Shifter

#1 Rapid Loading and Unloading — if your application requires loading and unloading transit vehicles, or if you just want to improve cycle times, a sideshifter will quickly pay for itself in improved productivity by significantly reducing handling times. 

#2 Maximize Space Utilization — when your forklift has a sideshifter, operators can maneuver loads in tighter corners and narrower aisles. This allows you to pack more product into your existing space. 

#3 Reduce Forklift Wear and Tear — less repositioning means less wear and tear on truck components.

#4 Minimize Product Pallet and Rack Damage — when operators can easily align the forks, your pallets, products and racks are less likely to get damaged.

Is it easy to add a side shift forklift attachment?

Adding a side shifter is very easy. You can ask your new forklift to arrive with a forklift attachment already installed, or you can add them to a truck you already have. The forklift attachments we offer arrive fully-assembled and can be installed immediately, no welding required. There’s also an optional quick disconnect so the sideshifter can be easily removed from the carriage, no tools required.

Forklift sideshifter attachments are available in several capacities. Please note: adding forklift attachments can impact the net capacity of your lift. If your business is located in Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee or eastern Arkansas, we can assist with ordering and installing a new data plate (if needed).

Fork Positioner + Side Shifter: An Attachment “Two-Fer”
For the ultimate productivity upgrade, get a fork positioner side shifter combo attachment. 

Not sure if you need both?  No worries.  With the right side shift attachment, a fork positioner can be a relatively easy addition.  In some cases, as easy as 9 bolts!

Cascade & Rightline Forklift Attachments are Offered in the Mid-South

Our experienced and friendly forklift experts can help you choose the best forklift attachment(s) for your application and budget. We offer attachments for nearly every type of forklift backrest and we’re an authorized forklift dealer for Toyota, Clark, Linde and Komatsu.

For more information, or to get answers to any questions you may have, contact a forklift expert at The Lilly Company online or by phone 844-LILLYCO (1-844-545-5926). Or, come see us at one of our 13 locations across the Mid-South.

Arkansas - Jonesboro
Alabama - Birmingham, Dothan, Irondale, Madison, Mobile, and Montgomery
Mississippi - Tupelo and Richland
Tennessee - Jackson, Kingsport, Knoxville, and Memphis

Further Reading:
Do I Need a Forklift Attachment?
Forklift Extensions: What You Need to Know
Sideshifter ROI Calculator (PDF)