With the Crown GPC 300 Series TERRA Material Handling offers new low-level order pickers

Vienna, 8 November 2007 – Detailed studies on picking produced by Crown’s engineers have led to the development of the new GPC 3000 series. By focusing on significant functions, the operator’s movements, while interacting with the truck as an order is being picked, have been reduced and simplified. TERRA Material Handling, as Crown’s exclusive importer, is now supplying this new series in Austria and 16 other countries in Central and Eastern Europe.

With the GPC 3000 low-level order picker series, CROWN has developed a device designed to make the picking process faster and more efficient. This model’s great diversity ranges from an economic entry-level model with a 2000 kg load capacity to a full-featured order picker with a 2700 kg load capacity. The series offers different fork lengths, optional features and different battery compartment sizes. The models also include fork lengths for one or two pallets as well as a platform lift option for frequent second level order picking. Innovative design, advanced technology and robust construction ensure productivity, safety and durability from the GPC 3000 Series, which is produced in Germany. 

Quick and efficient order picking
In order to work better and more productively, an operator needs, above all, a tidy workplace. Crown engineers have focused their attention on this fact and designed in the Work Assist^TM accessory program a flexible system of features to enhance convenience and safety. The extensive selection includes a clip pad, scan-gun holder, trash bag holder and stretch foil holder as well as a number of load trays and storage pouches.

Fast-reaction operating functions aid users in moving the picker, allowing them to work efficiently. Picking points lie tightly side by side, with the Pick Position Control^TM System making it possible for the truck to go to the next storage point without the operator having to get on board. A switch on the backrest is easy to reach from outside, responds without delay and brakes the picker when released, so the truck is perfectly positioned for loading.

Another way to speed up the picking process is to operate the picker using an ergonomic X10® control handle that can be operated from the side of the truck with a thumb switch.

Last but not least, Crown offers a unique fold-down step as a safe and cost-effective method for reaching goods that are stored up to a height of two meters. This not only helps the operator to pick quickly and efficiently but also allows for optimal utilization of space in the warehouse.

Optimal comfort reduces fatigue
Crown’s engineers and designers paid particular attention to reducing fatigue while maximizing operator comfort. The floorboard on the GPC 3000 series has been designed to make entry and exit as easy as walking through an open door. This is achieved by a wide walk-through area with contoured surfaces and a low step height of 130 mm. In addition, an ergonomically contoured backrest, cushioned kneepad and a fully suspended floorboard increase comfort and reduce fatigue during the work shift.

Productivity can be further improved by choosing the right truck for the current job. For frequent mid-level picking tasks, Crown offers a platform lift option while, for heavy or bulky products, models can position the forks at the right height to prevent the operator from having to lift and bend unnecessarily. All models have been designed with ergonomic, efficient and safe operation having the highest priority.

Excellent performance and state-of-the-art technology increase productivity
A further potential for productivity gains lies in the GPC 3000’s driving characteristics. With the new Crown models, operators save valuable time through smooth start ups and acceleration and profit from effortless, precise and straightforward electronic steering. The maintenance-free e-Gen^TM brake system provides consistent, reliable and long-term braking performance.

Environmental and economic considerations required the engineers to increase performance while decreasing energy consumption. The result is a combination of the Access 123 Comprehensive System Control and efficient alternating current motors. Access 123 provides safe and simple operation and industry-leading diagnostics. The system continuously analyzes factors that influence performance and safety, such as load, travel speed and steering angle. The intuitive display provides operators and service engineers with valuable information such as system status, instructions and programmable performance settings. The InfoPoint^TM system enhances this diagnostic system with an easy to follow troubleshooting process.

Footage for downloading can be found at the following link: http://www.crown.com/German/products/image_gallery/gpc_3040.html

About TERRA
Since 1957, when it was founded, TERRA has been one of the most prominent machine distributors and service partners in Central and Eastern Europe. TERRA markets its own Jumbo and Lancer brand side loaders, as well as the Ranger brand, through its TERRA Material Handling business. TERRA Material Handling has established solid partnerships with Crown Forklift and Nissan Forklift. In the construction equipment sector, TERRA, together with its partners JCB and HBM-NOBAS, offers a comprehensive portfolio of products for earthmoving, underground work, demolition, waste management and the lumber and woodworking industries.

The TERRA Group operates in Austria and 16 other countries in Central and Eastern Europe over a wide-reaching service network with 41 locations.

For further information please contact:
TERRA Maschinen GmbH und Co KG
Terra Material Handling
Fabianistrasse 8
A-1110 Vienna
Tel.: + 43 / 1/ 69 001-707
Fax: + 43 / 1/ 89 02 186