
However, when it comes to side loading, it’s not uncommon to have multiple forklifts load and unload cargo, due to the increased access through the side of the truck. This can improve cargo loading speed by 2 to 3 times. Due to the narrow access at the end of a truck, rear loading only allows access to a single forklift. Faster Loading & Unloadingīecause of this side access, multiple forklifts can easily maneuver to secure bulky and heavy cargo or pallets efficiently and safely to their assigned location.
Side loading forklift truck drivers#
Moreover, side loading also allows forklift drivers to move smoothly and safely with a full view of the cargo so that they can clearly identify which pallets to unload or where exactly to load a particular pallet. As a result of this, forklifts can access cargo selectively. Instead of loading and unloading cargo from the rear of the truck, cargo can be accessed through either the left or right side.

In the next section, we’ll be taking a closer look at the advantages of side loading. There are many advantages of side loading cargo, compared to the traditionally rear-loading process. Rear loading trucks require forklifts to access the cargo area through a ramp (loading bay or dock), as they would otherwise not have access to the cargo. Side loading does not require the truck to be positioned at a loading bay, as all of the cargo is accessible from each side, through forklifts. These types of trucks are known as side loading trucks (or curtain side trucks), which are equipped with side curtains, wings, or side doors. This can only be done by specialized trucks. The key difference between side loading and traditional rear loading is that cargo is loaded and unloaded from the side of the truck, instead of the rear of the truck. We will also share a step-by-step process on how this works. In this article, we’ll be exploring the practice of side loading, what vehicles are capable of this, and what the benefits of side loading are. Generally speaking, side loading allows faster and better access to the cargo area so that forklifts are able to unload and load more efficiently. This is only possible if the truck is able to facilitate side loading by either folding back the side curtains, folding up its wing, or opening its side doors.


Side loading allows more cargo to be loaded or unloaded in the same amount of time, compared to the traditional rear-loading method. Side Loading is a loading and unloading method, in which a truck gives access to the cargo compartment from both the left and the right side, as opposed to the rear. One way to increase loading and unloading efficiency is through side loading. This means that cargo needs to be loaded and unloaded from transport vehicles as efficiently as possible so that warehouses and manufacturers are able to increase productivity. When it comes to efficiency in logistics, quick cargo turnaround is key.
