August, 2025- Q: How have best practices evolved over the years when it comes to handling long loads? A: Most operations that handle long loads, whether it be steel bundles, pipe and tube, or sheet goods, and do it as a core function in the fabrication or distribution world, have transitioned from traditional forklifts and have integrated sideloading forklifts into their workspace to save space and increase safety. Sideloaders can safely handle bundles of shapes weighing up to 120,000 lbs. in very narrow aisles.
Q: Where does Baumann fit into this sideloader world?
A: Many sideloaders are used indoors with purpose-built racking systems to maximize space. There are three solid options for that application here in North America, each with its own advantages. These sideloaders are built for use on smooth concrete floors to maximize energy efficiency and increase stability at higher lift heights. Baumann sideloaders are primarily meant for outdoor or outdoor/indoor applications where ground conditions can be less than ideal. Larger tires, floating hydraulic level compensation and very robust frames set our product apart. We generally deal with larger capacity requirements and more challenging duty cycles in less-than-perfect yards.
Q: What do you see as the next step in the evolution of long load handling?
A: For many companies, finding qualified, dependable employees remains a challenge. That challenge applies to sideloader drivers, as well. Automation used to be about saving employee wages and benefits; now it is about ensuring the work gets done. Automated sideloaders are coming online, but questions remain on whether they can operate fast enough to keep up with demand. Automated crane systems continue to grow as a viable alternative and appear to be the future of long load storage and retrieval in an indoor environment.
Q: How will the trend toward automation affect Baumann going forward?
A: The Baumann sideloaders are generally working outdoors in large yards. Automation may come into play at some point, but it is not easily done when dealing with tough conditions like rain, snow, wind and heat waves. Today, our focus remains on increasing safety with our award-winning SafeAssist system that alerts the operator when overload situations occur. Our market continues to grow steadily as our product offering becomes more valued for its innovation and reliability.
Baumann USA, 855/334-2909, baumannusa.com.
