How long have you been using a forklift? If this question made you calculate how long it has been, your forklift is probably old now. This brings us to the next question. Are you experiencing issues with your forklift? If your forklift is old and issues are surfacing that means it’s time you must consider buying a new one.
A lot might have changed since the day you bought this forklift, isn’t it? Maybe your company has expanded, forklift working hours have increased or decreased and other such operational changes. All these things play a major role in deciding what type of forklift will be suitable to meet your business requirement today.
So, if you are planning to buy a new forklift to match pace with the changing times and requirements, here are a few questions that you must ask before you buy a new one. These questions will give you clarity about the specification and the type of forklift that will be suitable to take care of your material handling requirements.
1. What are your requirements?
This question is the basic and the most important one to get clarity before you buy a forklift. Understanding your business requirement, you may want to know the load capacity of a forklift. Does your company deal with loads that are heavy or those which are towards the lighter side? This information will help you get clarity on whether you need a heavy-duty forklift or an electric stacker is sufficient.
A lot depends on whether you will be using the forklift indoors or outdoors, its working hours, its maneuverability, and the wideness of narrow aisles at your facility. These parameters are important to consider because forklifts are designed differently for different surroundings, purposes, and intensity of work. Assess thoroughly before you make a purchase.
2. Are you considering Diesel or Electric Forklift?
Now that your requirements have changed, you must contemplate, which forklift will be suitable for your material handling needs- Electric or Diesel?
Diesel forklifts are large, powerful and are propelled by a diesel engine. Electric forklifts, on the other hand, are compact and are powered by a large battery. An electric forklift is used inside a warehouse whereas, a diesel forklift is more suitably designed and built for rough terrain as it provides more power. Also, a diesel forklift withstands weather better than an electric forklift. They run longer and they don’t run out of power so easily and quickly whereas, the electric forklift is electrically charged.
3. Is the forklift versatile?
If you are going to invest in a forklift you must know about what all it can do for you. It is imperative to learn about its versatility to use it to its full potential. Furthermore, you must also enquire about the suitable worksite it can work as a forklift can boost machine handling productivity if chosen correctly. A wrong choice can minimize productivity and result in reduced ROI.
Now that you’re aware of the questions you must ask before buying a forklift you must also make sure the person operating it is well trained and qualified to handle this responsibility. Forklift maintenance is an important part to ensure it serve you better. Therefore, it is equally essential to invest in finding an experienced forklift operator as it is to choose a forklift.
If you are looking forward to buying state-of-the-art, well equipped, high performance, and sturdy forklifts, visit our website to check out our range of forklifts and warehousing equipment. We will be happy to answers your questions.
