subject: How To Buy A Forklift [print this page] As your business needs have developed and you now have a warehouse for your goods you will undoubtedly need a forklift to process deliveries and orders, storage and distribution. And now as a small business operator you find yourself facing another series of steps to be taken into the unknown.
So unless you can ring someone or you know a reputable dealer you're going to have to do some serious homework on your forklift purchase given the many variations that there are when it comes to forklift options. Forklift types include hand pallet trucks, walkie low lift truck, rider low lift truck, towing tractor, walkie stacker, rider stacker, reach truck, electric counterbalance truck, side loader, telescopic handler. Bendi truck,
The first step is the easiest part of the process. You need to define your primary use as to whether you need a forklift for indoor use or outdoor use. If your needs are indoor then an electric forklift is going to be your best bet, all things being equal. A fuel forklift may also be an option however ventilation is a key factor and you'll probably find the electric forklift is the best solution. If your needs are predominately outdoor then a diesel or natural gas forklift is most likely to be your ideal choice. Even liquid propane may be an option however depending on some other factors you'll need to discuss this with the forklift dealers you are speaking with.
Ok, so now the next step is to identify the loads and weights that your forklift is going to be carrying every day. There are entry-level forklifts from 1600kg - 1800kg that will suit many small business operators requiring a single forklift and many small business operators will use a 3500kg-5000kg capacity forklift. However, if your load sizes are big and or your weights are heavy you may need to look at a bigger capacity forklift. Keep in mind the growth requirements also as you might be better off purchasing a forklift that has excess capacity for your needs today however can accommodate your needs in a year or two also.
Next you'll need to measure your height requirements and or restrictions to ensure that your forklift will be able to move safely in and out of your warehouse moving your pallets securely. In addition to this you will have to identify the amount of manoeuvring space your forklift will need inside the warehouse. As a guide if your warehouse has around 2-3 metres of space then a standard forklift will do the job for you. However, if your space is narrow around 1-2 metres you'll need to purchase a narrow aisle forklift as your best option. You'll also need to consider the attachments that you may or may not need and the safety options that are required for your situation. And make sure your forklift meets all the OH&S requirements for your application and industry.
Purchasing a new or used forklift will also be a major consideration and again this will depend on the amount of use you will require and the age of the used forklift. There are many excellent used forklifts at around the two-year mark that have been serviced correctly.
by: Morel Hudson
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