By choosing the right forklift truck for your business, you can gain many benefits. Moreover, it can increase your productivity. It may sound like a simple process, but in fact choosing the right forklift truck for your application involves more considerations.
The price is usually the dominating factor for many buyers when it comes to choosing a forklift truck. But selecting a certain model without considering the maintenance costs, engine type, and other similar factors can be a huge mistake. Selecting the right forklift truck instead of picking the cheapest one, will affect your business efficiency, reliability and money savings on the long run. Read on to find out how to choose the best forklift truck for your application.
Power. There are three power options on the market:
Electric. The electric forklifts have a longer life span, offer greater maneuverability and are less noisy when compared to other models. However, the electric forklift truck is relatively more expensive in terms of operation and maintenance costs, and it is not suited for outside operations. The electric forklifts are ideal for small warehouses.
Gas: The gas forklift trucks have lower maintenance costs, long life span and can be used more extensively in a single day. But, they produce high-level of gas emissions, are more noisy, and require warehouses with great space.
Diesel: The diesel forklifts are powerful, offer low running costs, are less likely to break down and offer great reliability for warehouses. However, they have the same problems as the gas forklifts: require great space for fuel storage, and are only suited for open spaces.
Load Capacity. When talking about load capacity, the diesel and gas forklifts have the largest load capacity. A diesel or gas forklift truck is recommended for heavy loads, while the electric forklift truck for inside warehouse operations.
Lift Height. Since the lift height can directly affect your forklift truck loading and carrying capacity, it is important for you to consider your warehouse size and the intend use of the forklift. The average forklift truck lift height is from 2 to 6 meters, but there are some units that can go over that.
Depending on your work requirements and your budget, you can also consider purchasing a used unit. The used forklift trucks are normally sold with warranty and examination certificate. However, if your business requires powerful and durable machines that can be extensively used, then a new equipment is recommended. A new forklift truck comes with the latest technology, offering high quality and productivity.
