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How to Find the Right Forklift

When it comes to buying a forklift, you need something that is suitable for the real-world practical needs of your business.

The truth is that many forklifts are used in roles for that they’re simply not designed for. Forklift selection requires a thorough understanding of the different types of forklifts, load management, and handling issues.

Types of Forklifts

Forklifts come in a vast range of types and sizes. The critical factor is load weight. Forklifts can carry loads from 1-16 tonnes. Each forklift is structurally different due to the difference in loads and in some cases the types of loads being carried.

A typical lightweight forklift is usually electric and used in environments like warehouses, wholesalers, and goods handling. A heavy-duty forklift is more likely to be petrol-powered. This type of forklift is made to manage heavy items in a broad spectrum of industrial environments.

Forklift Structural Designs

The next critical factor in forklift selection is the design. You’ll need to check product specifications carefully when selecting your forklift.

Factors to consider include:

  • Load capacity: You need a forklift that can take more weight than the projected loading weights. This allows a margin of safety and ensures that the forklift is operating within its capacity with no risk of overloading. For example, if your usual load weight is 500kg, a 1-tonne forklift would be quite sufficient. This safety margin also reduces wear and tear on the forklifts.
  • Size: When moving around the workspace, your forklift needs to be small enough to manoeuvre as well as manage its load. There are serious risks to goods and people involved in moving any load or vehicle in tight spaces, so this is a problem to be avoided at all costs. It’s a good idea to check out sizes and spaces thoroughly and get some expert advice before selecting your forklift.
  • Onsite handling issues: If your storage space includes high storage racks, you’ll need a high mast forklift, preferably a weight and size rated forklift. Get technical advice to be sure you’re making the right selection.
  • Types of load work: If you have special work requirements, check out options for forklifts that are specifically designed for that type of work. Considerations include tyres, frames and job-specific design features.

Forklift Maintenance and Servicing

A less obvious but critically important part of selecting a forklift is based on operational realities like maintenance and servicing. In the marketplace, big brands like Toyota, Nissan, Hyster, Mitsubishi, and Clark are also the high-end brands for technologies. They need to be serviced by authorised service people, and forklift repairs for these brands require specialised services using authentic brand parts.

Want Some Help Choosing Your Forklift?

If you’d like some help with forklift selection, call our team. We can help you with choosing the right forklift and all the technical advice and support you need. Call us on (02) 9679 8992 or drop us a line using our online contact form.  We’ll provide expert advice and budget-friendly deals for your new acquisition.