Forklifts are essential for businesses that deal with palletized goods regularly. The machines make it much easier to load and unload trucks – not to mention they also save you time and money in the long run.
However, so many different forklift models are available that it can be difficult to choose the right one.
To help you narrow down your options, we’ll be going over some of the most important features you should look out for when looking up forklifts for sale.
1. Paying Attention To The Platform Size
Forklifts can have a wide range of platform sizes, so you’ll want to make sure you choose one that is right for your needs. Your forklift’s platform size will determine what type of pallets you can load. If the forklift’s platform is too small, you won’t be able to load pallets onto it. If the platform is too large, you may be unable to manoeuvre the forklift around your warehouse.
If you are dealing with heavy loads, you’ll want to make sure you purchase a forklift with a larger platform. This will give you a wider surface area, making loading and unloading your materials easier.
2. How Much Weight Can Your Forklift Hold
The maximum weight capacity of your forklift will vary depending on the model, but it’s important that you choose one that can load as much as possible.
While you don’t want to overload your forklift, you also don’t want to purchase a forklift that isn’t capable of handling heavy loads.
3. Confirm the Forklift Is Equipped With Safety Features
When purchasing a forklift, make sure that it is equipped with safety features like load-sensing alarms, seatbelts, and a canopy. After all, forklifts are dangerous machines, and you don’t want to be operating one that doesn’t have these crucial features.
For instance, a forklift with a load-sensing alarm will shut down automatically when it senses it has reached its maximum weight capacity. Seat Belts will prevent you from falling and hurting yourself in the event of an accident. And a canopy will keep you out of the elements while you’re working, making it easier to see while operating your forklift.
4. Check Out The Visibility and Lighting Conditions
Forklifts are large machines that can make it difficult for you to see what’s happening in your warehouse. This can be especially dangerous when operating near people or other forklifts. You should also purchase a forklift with LED lights and a low-profile cab if possible. These will make it easier to see what’s happening around you.
5. Diesel or Gas Powered
Forklifts for sale can be either gasoline or diesel-powered. These two types of engines have different advantages and disadvantages.
Gasoline-powered forklifts are much easier to start and will be more reliable in winter. They also don’t require any type of special maintenance. Diesel-powered forklifts are more powerful but are also more difficult to start and require maintenance.
The Final Word
Forklifts are an essential part of many businesses. However, finding the right one can be difficult if you don’t know what to look for. You can narrow down your options on forklifts for sale by paying attention to the platform size, weight capacity, safety features, amount of noise, visibility, and whether or not it will fit in your warehouse.
Now that you know what to look for, it should be easier to find the right forklift for your business.
