Three Easy Steps for Buying a forklift

If you own a small company and are expanding into distribution, you may need to consider buying a forklift or other specialized materials handling equipment.

While finding solutions for your equipment needs may seem like a daunting task, it can be simplified if you break it down into a series of smaller tasks. Here are three easy steps to sourcing forklifts for your business.

Step 1: Determine Your Company’s Needs

Forklifts come in a wide variety of sizes and capabilities. The first and most important step is to determine what type of vehicle is right for you. To answer this question, consider what you are planning to use it for.

The most common type of forklift is the counterbalance type. This is the type of vehicle most people envision when they think of forklifts, with twin fork tines protruding from the front of the vehicle and a heavy weight attached to the rear to counterbalance the heavy loads the vehicle will be lifting.

Counterbalance forklifts are designed to carry a variety of payload capacities, from a couple of thousand pounds to several tons. When determining what forklift you need, consider the size of the loads you will be carrying with your vehicle. You don’t want to spend too much money on a forklift that is designed to carry bigger weights that you will never employ.

Besides a counterbalance forklift, you might also consider a three-wheel counterbalance. As the name implies, this type of vehicle has three, rather than four wheels, which provides greater maneuverability in tight spaces. If you are planning to use your forklift in narrow aisles or a smaller warehouse and dock facility, this may be the option for you.

Then there are forklifts that have customized capabilities, such as side-loading trucks or hauling very long loads.

Finally, consider what type of power your forklift will use. Electric forklifts are ideal for indoor use because they are quieter and don’t emit any residual pollution, while vehicles that burn gasoline or diesel fuel are often better for outdoor use. Propane-powered forklifts offer an ideal solution for vehicles that will be used both indoors and outdoors.

Step 2:  Sourcing a Supplier

This step is easy. Our sister company, ReconditionedForklifts, offers a wide variety of forklifts and other industrial equipment to suit your every need. Whether you are looking to buy a new, used or rebuilt forklift, Reconditioned Forklifts has exactly the vehicle to fit your specific needs.

Step 3: Train and Certify Operators

Forklifts are potentially dangerous vehicles that can cause serious damage or injury if not operated properly. Before you purchase your forklift, it’s always a good idea to set up a training and certification process so that you have an ample supply of operators who are qualified to drive your forklift  safely in your facility.

Forklift training programs can be downloaded online or purchased through your forklift supplier, in most cases. To ease access, you might consider online training that includes testing and certification modules.

Purchasing a forklift for your business can improve efficiency, reduce operational costs, and improve the bottom line … as long as you have a plan ahead of time.