Experience in warehousing and logistics teaches us that the choice of the forklift must suit the situation. There is such a wide range of forklift trucks that tailoring the right solution depends on the specific tasks and the circumstances.
Choosing the right forklift truck for your business takes into account several key factors. Safety of both your product stock and staff is the first consideration. And the second consideration is the type of load and weights lifted. And then, depending on your warehouse, there are specific machines and technology attachments that help to make your business more efficient.
The Right Forklift for the Right Job.
The right forklift truck is the one that can move your loaded crates, boxes and pallets with safety. The first consideration is the amount you need to lift. Every forklift truck has set weight limits. Only then can you establish whether your forklift can lift the weight to the height you need. Again safety is of paramount concern. Your forklift may be able to lift 2 tonnes but is unlikely to safely lift that weight up to the full height of the mast. Set your quality criteria by evaluating the stable weight load limit that poses no potential for falling over.
You may also need a specialist attachment to move certain items safely. Awkwardly shaped products may need bale and drum clamp. Assess the attachments you need to move products when the traditional forks may not be adequate.
Will your forklift truck operate indoors as well as outdoors?
Whether your forklift will operate indoors and outdoors dictates which forklifts are suitable. Changing the tyres is just one aspect of the forklift maintenance that is affected. For example, manoeuvres through entranceways used by other vehicles or pedestrians can pose a hazard. All width restrictions need to be considered. Are potentially explosive products involved? If so, modifications to stop static and sparks are required.
Have you considered the fuel type needed by the forklift truck?
An electric forklift is a pollution-free option, ideal for warehouses where space is more limited. Gas or diesel forklift machines are less likely to suit clean, hygienic facilities such as food factories or temperature-controlled cold storage areas.
However, the big issue with an electric forklift is recharging. If you have a spare battery for each forklift truck, then you will be able to use the machine while charging the dead battery. The additional costs of batteries and charging stations are a factor.
Gas and diesel driven forklift trucks can be better options in some circumstances. Storing gas and diesel does also require space but are likely to suit external cold conditions.
How to assess what you need.
Call on a forklift truck expert to help you assess what you need to keep your business and product loads moving. It is great to have a machine in mind. Ask an engineer with the right know-how to identify the forklift truck they think suits your circumstances. We are based in the North West and can supply new trucks, used trucks and forklift truck hire across the UK including: Manchester, Bolton, Liverpool , Leeds, Lancaster, Wigan, Birmingham, York, Blackpool and Chester. For more information simply call us, email us or fill in our contact form.