Are you shopping for a forklift? These industrial trucks are essential in warehouses, given their ability to improve operators’ productivity and increase the cost-effectiveness of operations.
These machines can be used for storing and moving materials both indoors and outdoors. Nevertheless, the working environment has a huge impact on the selection of these units.
There is a vast array of forklifts to choose from, such as Sun Equipment Forklifts, designed to suit the needs of different industries.
We hope these tips will help you choose one.
Consider its load capacity
The initial aspect of consideration when shopping for a forklift is the load capacity of these industrial trucks. Selecting the right load capacity is done by considering a series of factors such as the type of stock, its average weight, the maximum lift capacity of the lift truck, and the load width.
Moreover, the load type is important to consider if planning to use special attachments during transport. Standard forklifts can be enhanced with specific attachments to help individuals move the load more efficiently. Make sure not to choose a model whose maximum load capacity is below your requirements.
Check its lift height
Another crucial factor to bear in mind is the lift height, which mainly depends on the layout of your warehouse. Average models start at eight feet and reach a maximum of twenty feet. Nevertheless, there are certain units that reach heights above these levels. The ultimate decision should be based on your business type, the size of your warehouse, and your intention of using such industrial trucks.
The unit you choose should meet your height restrictions. The best way to meet these restrictions is by determining the highest point the forklift has to reach and considering any restrictions in height, such as hanging lights or potential ceiling beams. You can be sure about the dimensions by checking the height of your warehouse and the width of the aisles. Remember to consider the collapsed mast height, particularly if the machine should move under fixed structures.
Consider the fuel type
As far as fuel options are concerned, forklifts are available as electric and internal combustion units. Electric models are provided with power from large heavy-acid batteries, which last between six and eight hours. These are mainly used due to the absence of harmful emissions and their economic nature regarding fuel costs. Find out more about the sources of greenhouse gas emissions.
Furthermore, the cost of operation per hour of electric models is lower compared to internal combustion units. Nevertheless, their long-term cost-efficiency comes with a higher upfront cost. While electric forklifts impose a higher upfront cost, buyers enjoy the benefits of their investment in the years to come, as these units have a longer lifespan and offer lower-cost consumption.
On the same note, electric forklifts are highly recommended for indoor working environments due to the production of no harmful emissions. The same recommendations are valid for work performed in cold climates. The only disadvantages of these units would be the time it takes for batteries to recharge and the higher maintenance costs.
Internal combustion engines, on the other hand, run on various fuels, such as diesel, gasoline, natural gas, and liquid propane gas. The greatest advantage of IC units is their potential to operate in any kind of environment. Their weight capacity is much greater as well. For instance, diesel lifts have a capacity of 120,000 lbs. compared to 12,000 lbs. handled by electric models.
The upfront cost of IC models is much cheaper, but the ongoing costs per hour are significantly higher. See this link, https://www.britannica.com/technology/internal-combustion-engine, to learn more about internal combustion engines. If diesel tanks are refueled twice daily, the average annual costs for diesel forklifts exceed $15,000. On the opposite side of the spectrum, electric models have an annual fuel cost of approximately $1,500.
Internal combustion lifts usually run on compressed gas or diesel. Gas-powered models aren’t expensive regarding maintenance and have a long lifespan. Anyhow, they’re noisy and produce exhaust emissions. Diesel-powered units are suitable for heavy lifting performed outdoors, and they are the most powerful.
Final word
Make sure you purchase the ideal forklift for your warehouse!