When shopping for a new forklift from a forklift dealer, you probably have more access to information than buying from a private seller. But even when working directly with a dealer, it’s important that you ask the right questions about their products.
A good dealer will be happy to answer your questions and help you decide which forklift is best for your needs. They should also be able to provide maintenance services on their machines and offer warranties and insurance packages on used units.
Here are some features to look for when buying a forklift from a forklift dealer.
Know the Weight Limit of the Forklift
You might think that the lift capacity is always the most important thing to know when buying a forklift. Although it’s certainly important, it’s worth knowing the forklift’s weight.
The weight of the forklift affects how much the machine can lift because it doesn’t make sense to lift more weight than you can move. But the weight of the forklift also impacts your storage space and the number of people who work with it. This is especially important for smaller businesses looking for a smaller forklift.
Check the Turning Radius
A forklift’s turning radius is a good indicator of how easy it will be to drive. A forklift with a wider turning radius will have a harder time turning in a tight space, like a dock. A smaller turning radius will be ideal for someone working in tight spaces.
Forklifts with smaller turning radii often have smaller load capacities, so keep that in mind while shopping.
Find Out How Much Weight the Forklift Can Hold
This is especially important if you move pallets of goods. You don’t want a forklift that’s too light and will break or shake with your first load. Ideally, you want a forklift that can hold about 10,000 pounds, but heavier forklifts can be more difficult to operate in tight spaces.
There are other features to look for, including the maximum lift height, number of forks, and the steering system. But the weight capacity is one of the most important things to consider when buying a forklift.
Determine How High the Forklift Can Lift
Another important factor to consider is the lift height or how high the forks can go. Some forklifts can lift higher than others, which is important when loading or unloading a truck. Ideally, you want a forklift with a high lift height, but this may compromise other factors, such as fork width.
You also need to consider how high the load you’re lifting is. If you’re moving pallets or other large loads, you’ll need to ensure the forklift can lift high enough to clear them.
Also read: How to increase the productivity in your warehouse
The Bottom Line
It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the different options and features when buying a forklift. There are many factors to consider, from lift capacity to lift height and turning radius.
Not all forklifts are built the same, and different models will suit your business differently. Using your forklift will determine which features are more important than others.