Buying Big Forklift Trucks

A large warehouse establishment needs a variety of materials handling vehicles. Depending on your company’s operation one or more of those vehicles may be a big forklift truck.

Big forklift trucks are expensive and commonly built to order. So to assure that you get the right truck for your needs it is essential that some thought and research be performed. For example, you will need to know about the various models and makes that are available.

Fleet managers who have been involved in selecting and purchasing these style of trucks suggest that you first do research about the vehicles and the market, ask experts in big forklift trucks for advice, and think about what your operation may be doing in the future.

Here are a few things to consider when buying big forklift trucks.

What To Consider When Buying Big Forklift Trucks

First, it is essential that you think about all the possible uses of big forklift trucks and how one fits into your current business needs. Never ever ignore possible changes in the future operation of your business. The future considerations may include new location, load size you expect the trucks to handle including overall dimensions, shape, and weight. You will also need to consider the period of time in which your business will require these vehicles.

You can get answers to your questions from experienced suppliers. Discuss with them your specific needs and present business condition. You should research dealers that are nearby so that you can jump over there for a physical demonstration of models Select a dealer who has a staff of personnel who are knowledgeable in management, sales, and maintenance of these trucks.

Talk to people who are involved in a business similar to yours that are using big trucks. The dealers you are talking to can provide you with the names of people who run such businesses.

The quality of the vehicle is essential. So inspect the trucks with a focus on the welds, mast, cab and overall design. Consider the engine and what manufacturer made it and determine if it is known for quality and reliability. Ascertain where the vehicles are built and what the manufacturing facilities were like. To calm any doubts you may have, ask to tour their facilities.

Consider cost of ownership. Obviously, you want vehicles that have a low cost of ownership. As said above, these types of trucks are expensive and the expense doesn’t end when you purchase. Ask the dealer about operation costs as part of the overall research you do before you acquire the equipment.

Significant costs you need to consider include the driver comfort, control and ease of maneuverability. A comfortable driver will be more productive.

How easy is it to service the machine? Your answer will have an affect on the cost of maintaining the vehicle.

Inspect the operator equipment and try to determine possible damage due to driver error.

Consider tire wear. This is essential when considering possible costs of replacing tires over the time you will be using the machine.

Determine how fuel-efficient the vehicle is. Is there fuel saving modes or automatic shutdown to ensure no fuel is used when the vehicle is not in use?

Talk to the dealers concerning the cost of spare parts. If you decide to rent these vehicles, then these costs will be part of the overall maintenance costs.

Don’t ignore the resale value of the machine. Just like any equipment your business may be using, there will come a time when you will want or need to sell it. It may be worthwhile to research to determine what brand has the best resale value.

Of course, safety should be a major consideration. One of the most expensive costs involved in owning a big truck concerns the possibility of damage to products that it may be carrying and damage that may occur due to the driver. Make absolutely certain that the big truck you finally select has reliable operator safety systems.

Ask about the dealer’s and manufacturer’s service and support. Obviously, you want great support and service available if and when the truck breaks down.

Does the dealer have access to spare parts so that you can get them quickly when needed? Does the dealer have a deep inventory of spare parts at all times? This is important because you don’t want downtime for any truck because the supplier didn’t have the part when you needed it. Also determine if the dealer has a sufficient inventory of parts for old trucks. This will show that he may or may not have parts when your trucks get older.

Does the truck you are considering purchasing have a dual purpose? For example, can you swap out attachments easily? Is the load center and capacity already set to allow for attachment changes?

Finally, if a standard truck you are considering does not perform a specific task, does the manufacturer have the capability to customize it so that it can perform the task?

(Source: aalhysterforklifts.com)