Many Hands Make Light Work: A Construction Blog

Forklifts are essential pieces of warehouse equipment. But with so many different makes and models on sale, it may be difficult to know which one is right for you. Here's your ultimate guide to buying a new forklift—including four features to look out for.

Safety Features

The safety of your workers is paramount, so any forklift you buy should come with the latest safety features installed. This includes seat belts, warning lights and alarms and reinforced cages or compartments around the driver's seat. Some models also come with tilt sensors that can shut off the engine if it tilts too far in either direction. Additionally, make sure that your model comes with an emergency shut-off switch in case something goes wrong and you need to power down the machine quickly.

Durability

You want a forklift that will last for years without needing major repairs or replacements. To ensure this, look for a model that is constructed from high-grade steel or aluminium components—ideally those with rust-resistant coatings. Also, check the manufacturer's warranty; this will give you an idea of just how confident they are in their product's durability.

Capacity Requirements

It's important that your new forklift can lift up all of your heaviest items. So check the weight capacity before buying. If anything exceeds this number, you'll need to get another model or upgrade to a bigger size at a later date. Similarly, pay attention to lifting height requirements. Some models may only be able to reach heights of four meters or less—which may not be sufficient depending on the type of work done in your warehouse.

Ease of Use

Finally, make sure that any forklift you buy is easy and comfortable enough for operators to use day in and day out without getting fatigued, especially if more than one person will be using it regularly. Look for adjustable seats with armrests and back support, plus adjustable steering wheels that allow operators to drive comfortably regardless of size or stature. And don't forget about visibility. No matter how well-designed a forklift is, it won't do much good if its operators can't see what's going on around them.

Conclusion

Finding the right forklift for your business doesn't have to be difficult. By looking out for these five key features—safety features, durability, capacity requirements, ease of use and visibility—you can easily find a model that meets all of your needs while keeping your warehouse running smoothly and efficiently. For more info, contact a forklift supplier like L & P Mackin Forklifts.