The task of purchasing material handling equipment can be challenging, especially if you’re trying to find the perfect forklift for your business needs. With so many options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
When your business needs a reliable solution for heavy lifting, forklifts and other material handling equipment can make a huge difference in operational efficiency and productivity. If you’ve determined that a forklift could benefit your company, the next step is knowing where to start with the buying process. Here are essential forklift purchasing tips to help you find the right forklift for your needs!
Buying the Right Forklift for Your Business
If you’re new to forklift purchasing, the process may seem daunting. To choose the best forklift for your business, start by assessing your specific needs. Answering the following questions will help you narrow down the right type of equipment:
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Will it be used indoors or outdoors?
Indoor and outdoor environments have different demands. Indoor forklifts may require cushion tires for smooth, paved surfaces, while outdoor use calls for pneumatic tires that can handle rough terrain. -
How many hours a week will it be used?
For light use, a pre-owned forklift might be ideal. However, if you need the equipment to operate for extended hours daily, investing in a high-quality, durable model—whether new or used—becomes essential. -
How much weight will it need to lift?
Different forklifts have varying load capacities, so it’s important to know your maximum load requirements. Choosing a forklift with the correct capacity prevents overloading and enhances safety. -
How high will it need to reach?
If your operations involve stacking materials on high shelves, you’ll need a forklift with sufficient lift height. Reach trucks, for example, are great for vertical stacking in warehouses. -
Are you able to service and maintain it regularly?
Forklifts require routine maintenance to ensure safe, efficient operation. Consider if you have the resources to manage regular upkeep, or if a low-maintenance model would be more practical.
Addressing these factors will guide you in selecting the motor type, tires, and lifting capacity most suited to your business, ensuring an effective and cost-efficient forklift purchase.
Understanding Usage Levels
The first step in choosing the right forklift is to determine how frequently it will be used. Forklift usage is typically categorized into three levels:
- Low Usage: For smaller companies where forklifts are needed only three to four hours per week. This level of usage is common for businesses with one or two employees who only occasionally need material handling support.
- Medium Usage: For companies that use a forklift three to five hours daily. This category suits operations that require regular material movement without constant demand.
- High Usage: For businesses using forklifts seven or more hours a day. High-usage equipment must be durable, as it will be in near-constant operation throughout the day.
By identifying your usage level, you can better match your needs with the right forklift that offers the necessary durability and performance.
Determining the Type of Forklift
Not all forklifts are the same, and choosing the right type depends on the specific demands of your business. Here’s a quick overview of common forklift types:
- Very Narrow Aisle (VNA) Lifts: Ideal for warehouses with tall shelving and tight spaces, VNA forklifts are designed to maneuver efficiently in narrow aisles, maximizing storage capacity.
- Rough Terrain Forklifts: For construction, agriculture, or other outdoor applications, rough terrain forklifts are built to handle uneven ground and challenging environments.
- Pallet Jacks: These are best for moving pallets over short distances, making them ideal for smaller warehouses or distribution centers.
Understanding the specific requirements of your operation, such as the space and load types, will help you choose the forklift type that’s best suited to your environment.
Gas or Electric Forklift?
One of the key decisions is whether to opt for a gas-powered or electric forklift. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
- Electric Forklifts: Known for their long lifespan and minimal maintenance requirements, electric forklifts are ideal for indoor use where low emissions and quiet operation are essential. Although electric forklifts often have a higher upfront cost, they provide savings on fuel and maintenance over time.
- Gas-Powered Forklifts: Gas forklifts are typically less expensive initially and don’t require time for battery recharging, which can make them more convenient for long shifts. However, they require more maintenance than electric forklifts and produce emissions, making them better suited for outdoor environments.
Your choice between gas and electric depends on factors like operating environment, budget, and maintenance preferences.