If your warehouse is running out of space but moving to a bigger building is not an option, a very narrow aisle (VNA) forklift is the answer. These specialized machines reduce aisle width from the standard 10 to 12 feet down to just 5 to 8 feet, instantly increasing storage density by 30 to 50 percent. The trade-off is that VNA forklifts are more expensive and require more operator training than standard forklifts, but for many operations, the space savings justify the cost.
What Makes a Forklift "Very Narrow Aisle"
VNA forklifts come in three main types, each using a different mechanism to work in tight spaces.
Articulating forklifts like the Bendi B30AC use a pivoting front axle that allows the forks to swing while the rear of the truck stays straight. This design is the most versatile because the same forklift can work both indoors and outdoors on paved surfaces. A Bendi operates in aisles as narrow as 78 inches, roughly 6.5 feet, and lifts up to 3,000 pounds at a 24-inch load center.
Swing mast forklifts like the Drexel SL60 take a different approach. The entire mast rotates 90 degrees left or right, allowing the forks to service rack openings on either side of the aisle without turning the truck. The SL60 handles 6,000 pound loads in aisles as narrow as 60 inches. These trucks are strictly for indoor use on smooth floors but offer the highest storage density of any VNA design.
Turret trucks or tri-lateral forklifts are the third category. These machines have forks that rotate 180 degrees while the mast remains fixed, allowing the operator to pick from both sides of the aisle without turning the truck. Models like the HULKMAN VNA16 handle 3,500 pound loads and lift up to 30 feet. Aisle width requirements for turret trucks range from 60 to 72 inches.
Current Market Prices for Used VNA Forklifts
The used market for VNA forklifts is active, with prices varying significantly by age, hours, and type.
Articulating forklifts like the Bendi B30AC range from approximately
16
,
000
f
o
r
a
2014
m
o
d
e
l
w
i
t
h
n
e
a
r
l
y
12
,
000
h
o
u
r
s
t
o
a
r
o
u
n
d
16,000fora2014modelwithnearly12,000hourstoaround70,000 for a low-hour 2026 model. A 2026 new Bendi B30AC with a 198-inch mast lists at approximately
70
,
000
,
w
h
i
l
e
a
2016
m
o
d
e
l
w
i
t
h
2
,
700
h
o
u
r
s
s
e
l
l
s
f
o
r
a
b
o
u
t
70,000,whilea2016modelwith2,700hourssellsforabout36,000.
Swing mast forklifts like the Drexel SL60 command higher prices due to their greater capacity. A 2018 Drexel SL60 with only 1,163 hours is listed at approximately $46,000, while a 2010 model with just 133 hours is available by request. These premium prices reflect the specialized nature of swing mast technology.
New turret trucks from Chinese manufacturers like HULKMAN VNA16 are available for
31
,
100
t
o
31,100to53,000 depending on specifications. The EFORK VNA models with AGV automation capability are significantly more expensive at approximately
85
,
000
[
c
i
t
a
t
i
o
n
:
8
]
.
U
s
e
d
R
a
y
m
o
n
d
t
u
r
r
e
t
t
r
u
c
k
s
c
a
n
b
e
f
o
u
n
d
f
o
r
a
r
o
u
n
d
85,000[citation:8].UsedRaymondturrettruckscanbefoundforaround15,000.
Reconditioned Units with Warranties
Some sellers like Flexi offer used VNA forklifts that have been fully reconditioned. A Flexi AC1000 from 2020 with under 3,000 hours includes a full service, 12-month parts warranty, complete cosmetic overhaul including repaint, and a brand new lead acid battery with a 5-year warranty. This package gives buyers confidence that is typically absent from as-is auction purchases.
What to Check Before Buying
When evaluating a used VNA forklift, the battery condition is the most important factor. A lead acid battery lasts only 3 to 5 years in daily use. If the battery is original and the forklift is five years old, factor a
5
,
000
t
o
5,000to10,000 replacement cost into your budget. The hours on the meter are less reliable indicators of wear than the physical condition, because hour meters can be replaced and batteries can be swapped.
Verify that the mast extends and retracts smoothly without hesitation or unusual noise. Check the fork rotation mechanism for slop or binding. Inspect the guide wheels or rail followers if the truck uses wire guidance. And confirm that the truck is compatible with your aisle width and racking system.
The Bottom Line
The best value in the current market is a Bendi B30AC or similar articulating forklift from around 2016 to 2018 with 2,500 to 4,000 hours, priced between
35
,
000
a
n
d
35,000and45,000. This age and hour range avoids the premium of new equipment and the risk of very high-hour units, while still delivering years of service. For operations with the tightest spaces and heaviest loads, the Drexel swing mast offers superior density at a higher price. And for budget-conscious buyers, the used Raymond turret truck at $15,000 is an entry-level option, though its limited lift height and capacity may restrict its usefulness.
Whichever you choose, the key is matching the machine to your actual aisle width, not the width you wish you had. Measure first. Then buy. Then enjoy the space you just created.