How to Choose the Right Forklift for the Job

Choosing the correct forklift is critical for your business. It influences everything from operation costs, profitability, user confidence and stock administration.

With a wide selection of forklifts available based on applications, you need to consider a few key factors to select the right forklift for the job.
 

Forklift operating environment

Your operating environment will impact the kind of forklift, tire and fuel type. Consider the floor surface and conditions the forklift will work in and ask yourself these questions:
 

• Will the forklift work on smooth or rough surfaces?
• Inside, outside or both?
• How many hours will the forklift be used every day?
• Will it be operated by multiple employees?

 

Forklift load size & limit

Picking a forklift with a maximum lift capacity less than your required limit would be a huge mistake and could potentially hurt your business. Paying for more power than you need would be no different. Before you narrow down your forklift choices, it is important to consider:
 

• Average load weight
• Maximum load capacity
• Load width
• Load type

Load types are important to consider as there are numerous attachment options, such as forklift extensions, clamps and sideshifters, can elevate the operator experience and increase productivity and efficiency.
 

Forklift lift & reach height

Like maximum load capacity, forklift height restrictions play an important role in the decision-making process. You need to consider your average lift height, maximum reach and any height restrictions before you invest your money in a new or used forklift.

Additionally, keep in mind your warehouse aisle and width requirements, as these are factors that affect your selection of forklift.
 

Forklift fuel type

There are three kinds of forklift fuel types – electric, gas and diesel.

Electric forklifts cost more at first but last longer with less expensive consumption compared to other fuel types. These forklifts also tend to work quietly and deliver no emissions, making them ideal for both, indoor operations and colder weather.

Gas or diesel forklifts can lift significantly greater loads, move faster and have low maintenance costs. Diesel forklifts are the perfect option if the forklift will be utilized for heavy lifting or outdoor work. With gas forklifts, you have the decision of Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) or Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) - both are easy to refuel and have a long life span.
 

Forklift tire options

There are many tire options available for forklifts. The most widely recognized are solid and pneumatic forklift tires. Solid tires are not filled with air and do not go flat. These forklift tires are long lasting and perfect for indoor or light outdoor use. Pneumatic tires are filled with air, have a deep tread and wear-resistant rubber. These forklift tires are designed for use on uneven and rough surfaces.

There are also white non-marking tires and cushion tires – each with their own use and suited to specific situations.
 

Forklift ergonomics

Top notch adjustable seating is critical as forklift operators work in their machines for a considerable length of time each day.

Investing in ergonomic forklifts will reduce the probability of injuries such as back pain, fatigue and lack of concentration caused by repetitive tasks performed in uncomfortable seating.
 

New or used forklift  

This is a huge decision. If your forklift will operate more than four hours every day, a leased or new forklift will be the ideal choice for you. In this instance, the kind of forklift you require and your spending power will determine the best choice.

On the other hand, if you do not utilize your forklift consistently - and when you do it's just for an hour or two - then a good used forklift will meet your business needs.
 

Forklift parts & service

Another key factor to consider before you spend on a forklift is choosing a service provider that can provide easy availability of parts and forklift maintenance scheduling to reduce your downtime as much as possible. Choosing a dealer with manufacturer-trained technicians is another way to ensure your forklift is operating at top performance. No other type of technician can service your forklift as quickly or as effectively.

Another factor to consider is which forklift parts to purchase. Generally, Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) forklift parts are your best bet as each part is designed specifically for your machine with the longest life span. These OEM parts may cost a bit more than their generic counterparts, but they tend to last longer and come with a warranty and performance guarantee.

There’s a lot more that goes into choosing the right forklift for the job. Brandt is dedicated to finding you the best solution for your needs. Reach out to our forklift experts to learn more about new forklifts, used forklifts and parts and service.