Buying Tips
There is certainly lots of things to take into account when buying a forklift. Deciding on the right machinery could have a huge effect on everything from productivity to operating expenses, to equipment downtime and worker morale.
When you are thinking of choosing a new or used lift truck, the following is a short list of factors to take into account. There are some specific questions the sales consultant must address to be able to help you select the best option that is best for your company.
Step 1: Identify Your Requirements
Taking the time to identify your needs will help ensure that you can find a capable machine. What size are your average loads? Are they 3,000 pounds to 35,000 pounds or even heavier? How many hours every day would you be utilizing this machine? Will you be running the equipment outdoors or indoors or possibly both? How wide are your narrowest aisles to go through? Answering these questions correctly will make sure that you are happy with the unit you choose.
Step2: Used Vs. New Lift Trucks
You might want to purchase a brand new model of forklift if you are planning to use your forklift for more than 4 hours per day. The warranty benefits alone would come in handy. A second-hand choice will more than likely be enough for infrequent applications and light duty.
Step 3: Fuel Options
Typically, the large batteries that power electric forklifts can run for an 8 hour shift. The electric models are best suited for indoor use because they produce no harmful emissions. Although electric units are normally more expensive compared to different other types of forklifts, they have lower operating expenses. Electric lift trucks are a lot quieter to run and do not have fuel storage requirements to consider. Also, these types of machinery have less moving parts so they have a longer life span as they have less components to get worn down.
Amongst the disadvantages of the battery operated lift trucks is that they need battery recharging posts and this can take around 8 hours. There is an additional 8 hours required for cooling. Recent innovations have made their way onto the market so as to considerably lessen charging time. The fast-charge technology has become a great new thing.
Step 4: Tire Choice
Common forklifts use cushion tires made up of solid rubber or they would be outfitted with pneumatic or air-filled, inflated tires. Several lift trucks will use a solid pneumatic tires, that is a combination of the two kinds of tire. The pneumatic tire kind is great for outside applications. Cushion tires are perfect for indoor use and solid pneumatic tires are the perfect option for hazardous work settings where there is potential for regular tires being popped by sharp objects on rough terrain.