Buying Tips
There are actually lots of things to take into consideration when purchasing a lift truck. Choosing the best machinery could have a big impact on everything from production to operating expenses, to machine downtime and employee morale.
Here is a brief list of factors to think about when deciding on a new or second-hand forklift. There can be several specific questions the sales consultant must address in order to help you choose the best alternative that is right for your company.
Step 1: Identify Your Needs
Taking the time to identify your needs will help ensure that you can find a capable equipment. What size are your typical loads? Are they 3,000 pounds to 35,000 pounds or even heavier? How many hours each day will you be using this machinery? Would you be running the machinery outdoors or indoors or possibly both? How wide are your narrowest aisles to travel through? Answering these questions accurately will make sure that you are satisfied with the model you pick.
Step2: Brand new Vs. Second-hand Lift Trucks
If you are intending to use your lift truck more than 4 hours a day, you would probably want to purchase a brand new unit. The warranty benefits alone will come in handy. A used alternative would more than likely be enough for infrequent applications and light duty.
Step 3: Fuel Options
Normally, the large batteries that power electric forklifts could run for an 8 hour shift. The electric units are best suited for indoor applications as they generate no harmful emissions. Though electric units are usually more pricey compared to other units, they have less operating costs. Electric forklifts are much quieter to run and do not have fuel storage needs to think about. In addition, these machines have fewer moving components so they have a longer life span because they have less components to get worn down.
One of the disadvantages of the battery operated forklifts is that they require battery recharging posts and this could take about 8 hours. There is an additional 8 hours required for cooling. Recent innovations have made their way onto the market in order to significantly lessen charging time. The fast-charge technology has become a great new thing.
Step 4: Tire Choice
Lift Trucks are equipped with either pneumatic or inflated, air-filled tires or cushion tires that are made up of solid rubber. There can be also solid pneumatic tires that are a combination of the two. The pneumatic tire style is perfect to be utilized outside. Cushion tires are best to be used inside and solid pneumatic tires are the best option for hazardous work settings where there is a chance for regular tires being popped by rough terrain or sharp objects.