Quick Forklift Guide
A better quality forklift will last longer, cost less to maintain and be nicer for your operators to use. Buying is a substantial investment — here’s what to research before you decide.
Before You Buy
Capacity
The weight of the load you want to lift.
Size / dimensions
The dimensions of the load — this affects the capacity required as it moves the load centre.
Lift height
How high do you wish to lift?
Operating environment
Gravel yard or concrete warehouse? Any ramps, and how steep?
Fuel
The most effective fuel type, dictated by locality, ventilation or the product being handled.
Manoeuvrability
How much space do you have to operate in — door heights, mezzanine floors?
Hours of usage
How many hours a day will the forklift be in operation?
Attachments
Will your material handling be enhanced by side-shift, a rotator, or a clamp?
Talk to different people, your operators, colleagues in your industry and Eureka Forklifts who deal with material handling issues on a daily basis. The correct choice of forklift and forklift equipment for material handling in the workplace will have a great beneficial effect on productivity. Conversely the incorrect choice of equipment will have detrimental consequences. There is nothing worse than buying a new piece of equipment and realising that it is not effective in its role.
As In Any Capital Purchase You Will Get What You Pay For
But through good research you can also maximize the value you get for your dollar. There are a variety of brands to choose from; Toyota, Hyster, Nissan, Linde, Caterpillar, Crown, Komatsu, and Mitsubishi. Each of which will generally be associated with different tiers of quality.
Consult With The Staff Who Will Actually Use The Forklift/Machine In The Work Environment
Above all, Workplace Health and Safety should be priority, not what fits the budget. If you cannot afford a new or used forklift you need to talk to your supplier about alternative options. Eureka Forklifts offers a wide range of services including hire, competitive finance, long term leasing agreements, and used forklift upgrade options.
Still Not Sure Which Forklift Is Right For You?
Call our team for free, no-obligation advice — we’ll help you match a forklift to your job, not the other way around.
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