Inventors:
Norman M. Buse - Stanwood WA
International Classification:
B66F 912
Abstract:
A method of moving and transferring a stack of lumber or the like from a side by side row of stacks wherein the stacks are supported on ground placed chocks positioned at the ends of the stack. The method involves engaging with the tines of a forklift truck a transfer unit provided with a ground engaging support means at its forward end, and lifting the transfer unit with the lift truck tines so that the transfer unit is at least partially maneuverable by movement of the lift truck. The transfer unit is then forwardly and progressively moved under the selected stack by forward movement of the lift truck so that the transfer unit engages the stack and pushes the near chock forwardly and beyond the center of the stack so that the weight of the stack is transferred from the chocks to the transfer unit. The transfer unit supported stack is then withdrawn from the row of stacks by backing the lift truck away from the row. The lift truck tines are then lowered to a point where the transfer unit is fully ground supported, and the lift truck repositioned to where the tines can engage the transfer unit suppported stack from the side, and lift and transport it to a storage location away from the row of stacks.