Choosing a forklift, a critical decision for your productivity.

2021.01.04

When the time comes to choose the right vehicle, it’s not a matter of chance or magic. We asked our acquisition experts and here are the main questions to have before buying or renting a new forklift.

The forklift’s working environment

• You need to consider where will be evolve your vehicle; floor or flooring, indoor or outdoor, smooth floor, uneven floor or both?
• Will it go back and forth between hot and cold areas?

Maximum load and limits of the forklift

Careful examination of the characteristics and tables of statistics is not a waste of time.

• Is the future vehicle capable of lifting your heavy loads?
• Does the forklift have to move through tight spaces and/or over long distances?
• Is it necessary to lift and push the pallets into the shelves?

Type of fuel

Depending on whether you work in a warehouse or a rail yard, the type of power supply is important.

• Do you know the advantages and constraints of each type of fuel supply?
• What access do you have to electricity, propane or gasoline?
• Is the area where the forklifts operate well ventilated?
• Do you know the type of maintenance required for each type of fuel?

What type of tires you need.

Some tires are designed for operator comfort, others are designed for rough terrain.

• Is the type of work only indoor, outdoor or hybrid?
• Is the terrain uneven or sloping?
• If it’s for a retail business, do you need an anti-track coating.

What level of ergonomics does your forklift offer?

Good work ergonomics contributes greatly to the driver’s performance.

• Does the forklift require a high level of control?
• Is the learning curve high?
• Are the vehicle controls clear?
• Is the seat comfortable, do the joysticks offer good control?
• Do you have assistance while driving or lowering the goods?
• Do you receive automated fleet performance reports?

New or used

• Each has its advantages and disadvantages, will you choose cost transparency or long-term profitability?
• How many hours per day will you use your forklifts each day?
• Do you have access to a maintenance team to service the vehicles?

Access to parts and support

Choosing a forklift also means choosing a team that will assist you and lend you a hand. 

• Do the chosen models have a wide range of spare parts and are they easily accessible?
• What is my retailer’s level of support?
• Can I access technical documentation quickly?
• Is it self-explanatory in a language I know?

A retailer like Heli Canada offers a wide range of vehicles and customization options to suit your needs.