Things to Consider When Buying a Forklift for Your Business
Finding a forklift for sale and buying one sounds simple, but there are some things you need to think about when you are looking for a machine for your business. Not all forklifts are the same, and ensuring that the one you buy will do what you need it to is critical.
Fork Lift Capacity
One of the most important things to consider when buying a forklift is the machine's lifting capacity. When looking at a forklift for sale, check the machine's specifications to see what the manufacturer rates the capacity at.
The load capacity limit is there to ensure the machine is used safely. The forklift may lift more weight if you force it, but it will not do it safely. If you are buying new, talk to the salesman about what you typically need the forklift to lift, and they can help you find a model that has the capacity you need.
If you are looking at a used forklift for sale, you need to check the capacity and determine for yourself if the machine will be able to handle the workload. If you are not unsure of the capacity you need, it is often better to get a forklift slightly larger than you think you need than to end up with one that can't do the job.
Fuel Used
Many modern forklifts for sale offer flexible fuel options, and if you are using your machines inside a closed loading dock, storage area, or warehouse, you need to make sure that the emissions coming from the machine are safe. Propane-powered forklifts are an excellent option for indoor use because the propane burns extremely clean.
Propane forklifts can be used inside all day without affecting people working in the same area. The cost of propane is relatively affordable for most companies, and the tanks can be rented and filled offsite and brought to the business in a large enough quantity to keep your forklifts running all week if needed.
Electric forklifts are also available for indoor use, and they produce zero emissions but will require charging daily. The cost of electricity in your area should be a consideration before looking for electric forklifts for sale, or consider setting up a solar array and charging system to use renewable solar power to charge your forklifts.
Lease or Purchase
You may want to consider leasing forklifts for your company when you need new ones. Forklifts for sale are often expensive, and if your business is still growing, leasing your machines is a great way to spread the cost out and make new forklifts more affordable.
Buying the machines on a lease-purchase program allows you to get the new machines you need, and most lease programs include maintenance on the forklift until you make the final payment. Check out fork lifts for sale in your area or contact a dealer about what they offer that might better fit your needs.
