Quick answer: Start with your pallet size and weight, make sure your forklift can carry two loaded pallets at once, and confirm it has the hydraulic functions to run the fork positioning.
What a single double does
A single double, also called a single-double pallet handler or double pallet handler, uses forks that move apart to carry two pallets side by side, then close together to handle one. It can double the pallets moved per trip on high-volume docks.
What to look at when choosing a single double
| What to check | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Pallet size | The forks must fit your pallet openings and spread to carry two pallets side by side. |
| Fork length | Fork length should match your pallet depth for a stable load. |
| Truck capacity | Two loaded pallets weigh twice as much as one. Your forklift must carry both, plus the attachment weight. |
| Hydraulic functions | Single doubles need auxiliary hydraulics to move the forks between single and double mode. |
| Visibility and aisles | Two pallets side by side are wide. Check doorways, trailers and aisle widths. |
Common single double applications
- Beverage and bottled water. Fast loading of full trailers.
- Food and grocery distribution. High pallet volumes on the dock.
- Cross-docks. Moving freight in and out quickly.
Check your forklift first
- Hydraulics. Most single doubles need one or more auxiliary hydraulic functions on the forklift.
- Carriage class. The attachment must match your forklift’s carriage class and mounting.
- Capacity. Every attachment reduces the forklift’s usable capacity, and the truck’s capacity plate should reflect the attachment. Your forklift dealer can confirm this.
Not sure what fits? Send your forklift make, model and capacity with your single double rental request and we will match the right unit.
Rent first, then decide
If you are still deciding on size or style, rent one and test it on your own loads. Our rent vs. buy guide explains when renting makes more sense than buying. Forklift dealers can rent at dealer pricing through the AttachCo Dealer Rental Program.
Frequently asked questions
Is a single double the same as a double pallet handler?
Yes. They are two names for the same type of attachment.
What size forklift does a single double need?
Usually a higher-capacity truck, because it carries two loaded pallets plus the attachment. Send us your make, model and capacity to confirm.
Can I test a single double before buying?
Yes. Renting one is an easy way to prove double-pallet handling on your own dock.
Need a single double?
AttachCo rents reconditioned single doubles that ship the same day or within 1 to 2 days, anywhere in the continental U.S., through your forklift dealer.