Investing in a lift truck isn’t just about moving goods from point A to point B. It’s about lifting your business to where it needs to be. Choosing the right truck can streamline workflows, enhance workplace safety, and significantly impact your enterprise’s overall efficiency and profitability.
Before making this important decision, however, it’s essential to thoroughly evaluate your needs and understand the options available to your business. To help you navigate this crucial purchase, we’ve outlined ten critical questions that will guide you in making a smart and informed investment. These will help you identify the lift truck models that best meet your requirements and ensure that your choice supports your business’s growth and operational goals.
1. What Is the Purpose of My Purchase?
Identify the primary reason for acquiring a lift truck. Are you replacing an old model, expanding your fleet, or making your first purchase? Clear objectives ensure you choose a model that meets your needs without spending on unnecessary features. Share your goals with potential vendors to receive tailored recommendations.
Timing is also crucial. Lead times for acquiring new lift trucks can vary significantly. If you have urgent needs, engage with vendors early to minimise delays.
2. What Are My Operational Requirements?
Lift trucks must suit your working environment and tasks. Evaluate these factors:
- Surface type: Smooth floors suit cushion tyres, while rough outdoor terrain demands pneumatic tyres.
- Exposure: Consider enclosed cabins or weather-resistant components for tasks that will be done in harsh weather conditions.
- Space constraints: Narrow aisles or low ceilings require compact or specialised configurations.
Tailoring your lift truck choice to your environment ensures safety, efficiency, and longevity.
3. What Powertrain Is Best for My Operations?
Your choice of powertrain affects performance, costs, and environmental impact:
- Electric: Quiet, emission-free, and ideal for indoor use. However, they may have limited load capacity and runtime due to the need for charging.
- Internal Combustion (IC): Diesel or propane-powered models offer higher capacities and longer runtimes, making them suitable for outdoor use. The trade-offs are noise, emissions, and costs associated with fuel use.
- Hybrid models: Dual-fuel models offer greater flexibility for varied applications.
Select a powertrain that aligns with your operational demands and environmental considerations.
4. What Style of Lift Truck Do I Need?
Lift trucks come in various styles designed for specific tasks:
- Counterbalance trucks: Versatile for indoor and outdoor use.
- Reach trucks: Ideal for high-rise storage.
- Pallet trucks and Stackers: Simplify material movement and stacking.
- Articulated trucks: Pivot easily in tight spaces.
- Rough terrain lift trucks: Handle uneven outdoor surfaces.
- Telescopic lift trucks: Feature extendable booms for versatile lifting.
- Side-loaders: Specialise in moving long or bulky loads.
Discuss aisle width, load height, operator position (sitting or standing), and specific load types with your vendor to pinpoint the most suitable model.
5. What Are My Load Requirements?
Specify your load parameters:
- Weight: What is the maximum weight the lift truck must handle?
- Dimensions: Are the loads typically bulky, requiring special lift truck attachments?
- Height: What is the highest point the lift truck must reach?
Providing detailed specifications to your vendor will help identify the proper chassis and accessories. For example, handling irregular loads might require attachments like side shifters, rotators, or clamps.
6. What Will Be the Typical Duty Cycle?
Duty cycle refers to how often and for how long the lift truck will be in use. For example, a single shift (8 hours per day) operation has a duty cycle of approximately 33%.
The duty cycle impacts:
- Battery or fuel requirements: Electric lift trucks may need larger batteries or faster charging solutions, while IC lift trucks may need adequate tank capacity for longer duty cycles.
- Maintenance schedules: Higher usage will require more frequent servicing.
Aligning the lift truck’s features with your duty cycle ensures operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
7. What Are My Financial Options?
Balancing upfront and ongoing costs is crucial for long-term value. Account for the total cost of ownership, including fixed costs (purchase price, depreciation) and variable costs (fuel, maintenance, replacement, and emergency repairs) over the lift truck’s lifecycle.
If your budget allows, consider acquiring more recent models as new lift trucks offer the latest technology, reliability, and warranty coverage. However, they also tend to come with higher upfront costs and potential lead times.
If your budget is tight, you could explore acquiring used lift trucks. They are more affordable but require thorough inspection for wear and tear. Certified pre-owned options with warranties can be a safer choice. Alternatively, you could also consider lift truck rental as an option for short-term needs or to bridge the gap during peak periods. Rentals provide flexibility without the long-term commitment of ownership, allowing you to test different models to find the best fit for your operations.
8. What External Support Will I Need?
Lift truck ownership often involves partnerships with external service providers. These may include:
- Safety trainers: To ensure compliance with local regulations.
- Maintenance teams: For regular servicing and repairs.
- Technology providers: For telematics or fleet management solutions.
Partner with vendors who offer comprehensive support tailored to your business needs.
9. How Will I Ensure Compliance and Safety?
Different lift truck classes require specific operator certifications. Additionally, local regulations may mandate safety features or written safety programs. Ensure you are prepared to meet these requirements to avoid legal and operational issues.
10. What Is the End-of-Life Plan for the Lift Truck?
Consider the life truck’s resale value and disposal requirements. Some manufacturers offer trade-in programs or recycling options. Planning mitigates future costs and simplifies the replacement process.
A well-chosen lift truck isn’t just a tool; it’s an investment in the efficiency and success of your business. By addressing these questions, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your operational needs and financial goals.
James is the head of marketing at Tamoco
