An ITA Class III electric stacker with operator platform for longer travel distances.
Detailed Definition
A rider stacker is a battery-powered pallet stacker that the operator rides on, usually standing on a platform at the rear, instead of walking behind it. It belongs to Class III of the industry lift truck classes, the electric motor hand and hand/rider trucks. Like a walkie stacker, it has a mast that lifts pallets onto racks or stacks, with straddle legs or baselegs for stability. Riding lets the operator cover longer distances with less fatigue than walking.
Rider stacker versus walkie stacker and reach truck
A walkie stacker suits short trips and occasional lifting. A rider stacker adds a platform and often a higher travel speed, so it suits longer runs between dock and storage. A reach truck is a larger Class II machine built for higher lifts and heavier rack work. Rider stackers sit between them in size, cost and capability.
Leg design and pallet fit
Stackers use one of two leg layouts. Straddle legs are spaced wider than the pallet, so the legs pass outside it and the forks can pick from the floor or a bottom beam. Baseleg or fork-over designs have legs that run under the forks and need the pallet to have open bottom entry. Check that your pallets, especially those with full bottom decks, work with the leg design you choose.
Safety and training points
- Operators need training and evaluation under OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178, the same as for other powered industrial trucks.
- Check the data plate for capacity at the needed lift height and load center.
- Many rider stackers have a fold-up platform; keep it and the operator guards in good repair.
- Use them on smooth, level floors, since their small wheels and low clearance are not made for rough surfaces.
Related Glossary Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a rider stacker need a forklift license?
OSHA does not issue licenses, but it does require that every powered industrial truck operator be trained and evaluated by the employer, and rider stackers are powered industrial trucks. Under 29 CFR 1910.178, training must cover the specific truck type and the workplace, and each operator's performance must be evaluated at least once every three years. Keep written records of training and evaluations.
Can a rider stacker handle double-faced pallets?
It depends on the leg design. Straddle-leg stackers place their legs outside the pallet, so they can lift closed-bottom and double-faced pallets. Baseleg and fork-over designs push their legs under the pallet with the forks and need open bottom entry, which many double-faced pallets do not offer from every side. Test your actual pallets with the model before buying.