This would not be possible on such a large scale without forklifts, which enable internal transport and efficient storage of all kinds of products and semi-finished goods. Forklifts are efficient and inexpensive to maintain and, most importantly, make it possible to handle heavy loads efficiently in relatively small spaces and store them at great heights, allowing warehouse space to be used to its full potential. Of course, forklifts are used not only for internal but also external transport; however, combustion-powered forklifts are generally better suited to work outdoors, while electric forklifts are better for indoor use. Different types of forklifts are suitable for different tasks.
Types of forklifts – combustion-powered or electric forklift?
Forklifts can be divided, for example, according to their drive type or functionality. In terms of drive, we distinguish between combustion-powered and electric forklifts, as well as forklifts without mechanical drive—those that require the direct application of muscle power to lift a load.
An example of a forklift that does not use mechanical drive is a pallet truck, popularly known as a pallet jack. This is the simplest type of forklift, with many advantages, including its price, low maintenance costs, ease of storage, ease of use, reliability and the fact that no licence is required. Electric pallet trucks are also common. They provide greater operator comfort, which, when such a truck is used frequently, will certainly translate into higher productivity.
The fundamental difference between combustion-powered and electric forklifts is that combustion-powered forklifts cope better with dust and dirt, but are unsuitable for work in enclosed spaces because of exhaust emissions. Electric forklifts offer a somewhat lower lifting capacity, and charging takes longer than refuelling combustion-powered forklifts; however, they compensate for this with quiet operation, ease of use, generally low servicing costs and smaller dimensions, which allow them to move through narrow spaces.
The second way of dividing forklifts mentioned above is according to functionality. We distinguish between low-level and high-level storage forklifts. Low-level storage forklifts are those used to place goods at a height of no more than 5–6 metres. They are equally suitable for transporting goods and storing them. High-level storage forklifts, on the other hand, allow goods to be lifted to heights several times greater, at the cost of reduced mobility.
These are only two of the many criteria that can be used to classify forklifts in some way. This is not an arbitrary division either—for example, in terms of drive, forklifts can be divided in a somewhat broader manner into electric, battery-powered, LPG, petrol and diesel models.
Advantages of individual forklifts
When dividing forklifts into categories, the strengths and weaknesses of the individual types have already emerged. Below, however, we will focus on the general advantages of forklifts, attempting to present their full potential without describing the capabilities of a specific model.
Above all, forklifts enable loads to be transported efficiently inside warehouses or around construction sites. They are relatively simple and convenient to use, which also translates into their productivity. They enable goods to be stored optimally, and loads can be placed precisely at heights of even several dozen metres. Simpler models, such as pallet trucks, make it possible to unload goods, for example, directly from inside a vehicle. The largest models, in turn, allow heavy loads to be handled over difficult terrain.
The most important forklift parameters – what to consider when choosing a forklift?
When considering purchasing a forklift, we should first determine what we will use it for and where. Should it offer any special functionality, such as operation on difficult terrain, and what type of drive and maximum lifting capacity should it have? As mentioned earlier, the type of drive is determined by the place and conditions of work. As for lifting capacity, a more powerful forklift also means a higher price and greater operating costs. The forklift’s lifting capacity should therefore not significantly exceed our needs.
The year of manufacture and the technical condition of the forklift are two further aspects to which we should pay attention. The manufacturer of the forklift is also important, if only because of the availability of spare parts on the market.
It is worth remembering that buying a new forklift is not the only option. A cheaper alternative is to rent or buy a used forklift. Our company rents and sells forklifts. More information on this subject can be found on the website https://movincar.pl/.
The last, but very important, issue when choosing a forklift is knowing who is authorised to operate it. While the simplest manually operated pallet trucks—electric or otherwise—which can lift a load only a few dozen centimetres, do not require any qualifications, all other forklifts require specialised qualifications in various categories. Once we have chosen the type of forklift that interests us, it is essential to ensure that we employ personnel who are authorised to use it.
New or used forklift? Renting as an alternative to buying a forklift
The price of forklifts depends on the type of forklift we plan to buy and who manufactures it, which usually translates into the quality of the forklift itself. Moreover, forklift prices change over time, so it is impossible to determine in general how much a forklift costs.
What we do want to point out, however, is the price difference between a new and a used forklift, with the latter potentially costing up to three times less. If we decide on a used forklift, however, it is essential to check its technical condition. If we are wondering whether to choose a new or used forklift, it is worth considering a third option. This alternative is short- or long-term forklift rental. Short-term rental is particularly attractive for businesses where a forklift is used periodically, for example depending on the season. To rent or purchase a suitable forklift, please contact Movincar.