Push-Pulls

Push-Pulls: The Efficient Attachment for Palletless Slip Sheet Handling

A Push-Pull (or slip sheet push-pull attachment) is a specialized hydraulic or mechanical device for forklifts, telehandlers, or material handling equipment designed to grip, pull, and push slip sheets (thin cardboard/plastic platforms) along with stacked goods (cartons, boxes, or loose items)—eliminating the need for traditional wooden/plastic pallets. This innovation reduces storage/transport costs, maximizes space efficiency, and streamlines workflows in warehouses, logistics, retail, and manufacturing where palletless handling is prioritized.

How It Works

Push-pulls operate by engaging the slip sheet’s edge, then using controlled force to slide the sheet (with cargo) onto/off a flat surface (e.g., truck bed, rack). Key mechanisms include:

• Hydraulic Models: Powered by the host machine’s hydraulic system, with dual cylinders for smooth pushing/pulling (force: 1–5 tons). Features adjustable clamping pads to grip slip sheets of varying thicknesses (0.5–3 mm).
• Mechanical Models: Lever- or spring-loaded arms with non-slip rubber pads; manually adjusted for slip sheet width (600–1,200 mm). Ideal for light-duty applications (≤1 ton).
• Fork Integration: Attaches to standard forklift forks via mounting brackets, with sensors (optional) to detect fork position and ensure alignment.
• Slip Sheet Engagement: Front “push” plate slides under the sheet, while rear “pull” hooks grip the sheet’s edge—working in tandem to move cargo without shifting.

Key Advantages

• Palletless Efficiency: Eliminates pallet costs, storage needs, and return logistics—cuts expenses by 20–30%.
• Space Optimization: Slip sheets are 80% thinner than pallets, doubling storage density in warehouses/trucks.
• Gentle Cargo Handling: Uniform pressure prevents box crushing; ideal for fragile/stacked goods (electronics, pharmaceuticals).
• Versatility: Handles cartons, bags, or loose items on slip sheets (size: 800×1,200 mm to 1,000×1,500 mm).
• Durability: Hardox® 450 steel frame, wear-resistant pads, and sealed hydraulics withstand daily use in cold storage/logistics hubs.
• Safety Compliance: Meets OSHA 1910.178 and EN 1757 standards; overload sensors (optional) prevent damage.

Technical Highlights

• Load Capacity: 1–3 tons (hydraulic models); 0.5–1.5 tons (mechanical models)
• Slip Sheet Thickness: 0.5–3 mm (adjustable clamping pads)
• Compatible Machines: 1–5 ton forklifts (electric, diesel, LPG), telehandlers (2–4 ton reach)
• Material: Hardox® 450 steel frame, food-grade rubber pads (for sanitary use), galvanized hydraulic components
• Operation: Push/pull speed 0.5–2 m/s (hydraulic models); manual lever control (mechanical models)
• Weight: 100–400 kg (220–882 lbs, balanced for forklift stability)
• Hydraulic Flow: 20–60 L/min (matches standard forklift auxiliary circuits)
• Temperature Range: -30°C to 50°C (-22°F to 122°F, cold storage compatible)
• Features: Quick coupler mount, optional fork position sensors, LED load indicators

Applications

• Warehousing: Store/retrieve slip-sheeted cartons in high-density racks; reduce pallet inventory.
• Logistics/Distribution: Load/unload trucks with slip-sheeted goods (no pallet unloading required).
• Retail: Restock store shelves with boxed merchandise (groceries, electronics) directly from slip sheets.
• Manufacturing: Feed raw materials (components, packaging) into production lines without pallets.
• Cold Storage: Handle frozen food cartons on slip sheets (corrosion-resistant models).
• E-commerce Fulfillment: Process bulk orders of lightweight goods (apparel, books) efficiently.

From high-volume distribution centers to cold storage facilities, push-pulls redefine palletless material handling—offering cost savings, space efficiency, and gentle cargo care. Their ability to integrate seamlessly with existing forklifts and adapt to diverse slip sheet sizes makes them indispensable for modern lean logistics.