Buying Tips
There is certainly numerous things to take into consideration when buying a forklift. Choosing the right machinery could have a huge effect on everything from production to operating costs, to machine downtime and employee morale.
Below is a short list of factors to think about when deciding on a brand new or second-hand lift truck. There can be some specific questions the sales consultant must deal with to be able to help you pick the best alternative that is right for your business.
Step 1: Identify Your Requirements
Identifying your requirements would ultimately help that you can find the best most capable forklift for your company. How large are your standard load sizes? Are they 3,000 pounds to 35,000 pounds or even heavier? How many hours every day will you be utilizing this equipment? Would you be running the machine outdoors or indoors or potentially both? How wide are your narrowest aisles to travel through? Answering these questions correctly would make sure that you are satisfied with the model you select.
Step2: Brand new Vs. Used Forklifts
You might want to purchase a new model of forklift if you are intending to utilize your forklift for more than 4 hours a day. The warranty benefits alone would truly be handy. A second-hand alternative will probably be adequate for infrequent applications and light duty.
Step 3: Fuel Options
Usually, the large batteries which power electric lift trucks could run for an 8 hour shift. The electric units are best suited for indoor applications as they generate no harmful emissions. Although electric models are generally more pricey than other units, they have less operating costs. Electric forklifts are much quieter to run and do not have fuel storage needs to consider. Moreover, these equipment have fewer moving parts so they have a longer life span since they have fewer components to get worn down.
Among the disadvantages of the battery operated lift trucks is that they require battery recharging stations and this can take roughly 8 hours. There is an added 8 hours needed for cooling. Recent changes have made their way onto the market in order to significantly lessen charging time. The fast-charge technology has become a great new thing.
Step 4: Tire Choice
Lift Trucks are equipped with either pneumatic or air-filled, inflated tires or cushion tires that are made up of solid rubber. There are also solid pneumatic tires which are a combination of the two. The pneumatic tire style is best suited for outdoor use. Cushion tires are best to be utilized inside and solid pneumatic tires are the perfect alternative for hazardous work settings where there is potential for regular tires being popped by sharp objects on rough terrain.