Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Emergency
services
Custom Multi-Directional Forklifts for Long Load Handling
Sidetracker Engineering has been a leader in material handling solutions for over six decades, specialising in the design and manufacture of multi-directional forklifts and bespoke equipment. Our expertise lies in creating custom-engineered solutions that address the unique challenges of handling long and awkward loads, with a focus on safety, efficiency, and reliability. Backed by ISO 9001 certification and a commitment to innovation, we serve industries ranging from metal stockholding to timber handling. Our team combines technical proficiency with decades of operational experience to deliver equipment that maximises space utilisation and reduces downtime. With a nationwide support network and a 98% first-time fix rate, we prioritise customer satisfaction through rapid spares delivery and comprehensive maintenance packages.Our heritage of British engineering excellence ensures every product meets the highest standards of durability and performance. We collaborate closely with clients to configure solutions tailored to their specific operational needs, whether through standard models or fully custom designs. Our dedication to continuous improvement drives advancements in manoeuvrability, safety systems, and energy-efficient powertrains. Trusted by businesses of all sizes, we combine tradition with modern technology to maintain our position at the forefront of the industry. This legacy of innovation is now strengthened through integration with Penny Engineering, expanding our resources and capabilities.
Services
Multi-Directional Forklifts
Side Loader Forklifts
4-Way Reach Trucks
Order Picker Forklifts
Electric Transfer Carts
Custom Forklift Solutions
Forklift Hire Services
Used Forklift Sales
Maintenance Packages
Spare Parts Supply
Details
- Year established: 1963
Highlights and features
- We have over 60 years of experience in specialist material handling equipment design
- Our ISO 9001-certified manufacturing ensures consistent quality and reliability
- We offer rapid spares delivery with 98% first-time fix rate for emergency repairs
- Our engineers provide nationwide support with 94% breakdown resolution within 4 hours
- We create fully customised solutions tailored to specific operational requirements
Associations and certifications
- ISO 9001
What people say
22-year operational lifespan
Doubled storage capacity
Second to none service
Competitively priced packages
Hard to beat reliability
Services
Multi-Directional Forklifts
Our multi-directional forklifts provide 360 manoeuvrability for handling long loads in confined spaces. With twin hydrostatic transmissions and advanced chassis design, these trucks operate effectively indoors and outdoors. Custom configurations include variable deck lengths and fork spreads to suit specific applications. The Schabmuller motor and Zapi controller combination delivers reliable performance with low maintenance requirements. Ideal for metal stockholding and timber handling operations requiring precise load positioning in narrow aisles.
Side Loader Forklifts
Designed for exceptional stability when handling awkward loads, our side loaders feature low deck heights and compact dimensions. Available in 3-wheel and 4-wheel configurations with capacities up to 8 tonnes. The articulating chassis enables operation on slopes and uneven surfaces. Custom options include powered fork spreaders and stability indicators that display load capacity in real time. These trucks excel in environments requiring frequent direction changes and tight space navigation.
Electric Transfer Carts
Engineered for heavy-duty transportation, these electric carts handle loads up to 20,000kg with rail-guided or free-roaming operation. Multi-directional drive systems allow 180 turns in confined spaces. Control options include remote, pendant, or cabin operation with variable speed settings. Constructed from high-strength steel, they provide durable performance in manufacturing and warehouse environments requiring reliable material movement between work zones.
Order Picker Forklifts
Specialist order picking solutions designed for efficient long-load handling in narrow aisles. Available with single, twin or double cab configurations and optional weighing systems. The guided or free-ranging models feature powered fork positioning for precise load handling at height. Safety features include mast verticality control and automatic load derating systems. Ideal for batch picking operations in storage facilities with space constraints.
Custom Forklift Solutions
Tailored material handling equipment designed to meet unique operational requirements. Our engineering team develops solutions for specialist applications including non-standard load dimensions and challenging environments. Features may include modified mast configurations, custom control systems and enhanced safety packages. Each solution undergoes rigorous testing to ensure compliance with industry standards while maintaining the core principles of reliability and ease of maintenance.
Questions
What is a multi-directional forklift?
A multi-directional Sidetracker Engineering forklift handles long loads with 360° steering, moving forwards, backwards, sideways and diagonally.
Which forklift can drive sideways?
Sidetracker Engineering's side loader models enable sideways movement for navigating narrow aisles with long materials.
How often should forklifts be serviced?
We recommend servicing every 500 operating hours to maintain optimal performance and safety standards.
When does a forklift licence expire?
Licences don't expire, but refresher training is recommended every 3 years as per HSE guidelines.
Do forklift trucks need road tax?
Road tax is only required if operated on public highways, not for private site use.
What is a specialised forklift truck?
Purpose-built vehicles for handling challenging materials like timber, metal stock and extrusions with precision.
