When it comes to forklift purchasing tips, getting it right from the start is crucial for your business. A well-chosen forklift can transform your operations, improving efficiency, safety, and productivity. The right equipment ensures tasks are completed smoothly and without unnecessary delays.
For first-time buyers, however, the process can seem overwhelming. The forklift market offers a wide range of models, each designed for different tasks and environments. Without a clear plan, you risk choosing equipment that doesn’t fully meet your needs, leading to wasted time and money.
This guide is packed with practical forklift purchasing tips to help you make a confident decision. By understanding what to prioritise and how to evaluate your options, you’ll be on your way to selecting a forklift that fits your business perfectly. Let’s dive in!
Understanding your business needs
Choosing the right forklift begins with understanding your business needs. A thoughtful evaluation ensures the equipment aligns with your operations, boosting efficiency and safety. Below, we’ll break down essential tips to help you assess your requirements.
Indoor vs outdoor use
One of the first things to consider is whether the forklift will be used indoors, outdoors, or both. This decision plays a significant role in selecting the right features.
Indoor use: Forklifts operating inside warehouses or facilities often require cushion tyres. These are perfect for smooth, paved surfaces and provide excellent manoeuvrability in tight spaces. Electric forklifts are a popular choice for indoor use due to their quiet operation and zero emissions.
Outdoor use: For outdoor environments, pneumatic tyres are essential. They can handle rough terrain, gravel, and uneven surfaces with ease. Diesel or petrol forklifts are often preferred outdoors for their durability and power, especially when heavy loads are involved.
Load capacity and lift height
Next, consider your lifting needs. How much weight does the forklift need to carry, and how high does it need to lift?
Lifting capacity: Overloading a forklift is unsafe and damages the equipment. Be sure to choose a model that meets or slightly exceeds your maximum load requirements.
Lift height: If you work in a warehouse with high shelving, you’ll need a forklift with a suitable lift height. Reach trucks, for example, are designed to handle tall stacks, making them ideal for vertical storage solutions.
By focusing on these specifications, you’ll prevent accidents and downtime while improving workplace safety.
How many hours will it be used?
How often the forklift will be in use is a critical factor in your decision. Forklifts used for a few hours a week may not need the same durability and features as those running full-time.
Light use: If your forklift is only needed occasionally, a lower-maintenance or pre-owned model might be a more cost-effective option.
Heavy use: For continuous, heavy-duty tasks, investing in a new, robust forklift is worth considering. Durable models are designed to handle extended operations without compromising performance.
By addressing these key areas, you’ll have a solid foundation for finding the perfect forklift for your needs. For tailored advice, consulting industry experts like Hyworth Forklifts can make all the difference. We can guide you towards a forklift built to handle your specific usage levels, ensuring long-term value for your business.
New vs used forklifts: What’s the best option?
When it comes to forklift purchasing tips, one of the most common questions is whether to invest in a new or used forklift. Each option has its advantages, and the right choice depends on your business needs, budget, and long-term plans.
New forklifts
New forklifts offer the latest technology, better fuel efficiency, and fewer maintenance worries. They’re ideal for businesses needing high-performance equipment for intensive, long-term use. However, new forklifts come with a higher upfront cost, which can strain smaller budgets.
If reliability and warranties are priorities for your business, a new forklift might be the best fit. You’ll benefit from peace of mind knowing your equipment is less likely to require repairs.
Benefits of choosing used forklifts
For businesses with a tighter budget, pre-owned forklifts can be a smart investment. Used equipment often costs significantly less, allowing you to allocate funds elsewhere or even purchase multiple forklifts for the same price as one new unit.
Cost savings: A used forklift is much cheaper than a new one, yet it can still perform reliably for years if purchased from a trusted supplier.
Availability: Pre-owned models are often ready for immediate delivery, saving time compared to waiting for a new unit.
Budget flexibility: Lower upfront costs give businesses room to invest in accessories, attachments, or even additional equipment.
Tax benefits, such as depreciation deductions, can also make used forklifts even more affordable.
Key features to consider when buying a forklift
Understanding the features that matter most is one of the essential forklift purchasing tips for first-time buyers. The right features can make a big difference in performance, cost, and overall suitability for your business. Here are the critical features to consider before making your purchase.
Motor type – Electric vs internal combustion engines
The motor type determines a forklift’s fuel source and operating environment. Selecting the right one depends on your priorities and work setting.
Electric forklifts: These are ideal for indoor use. They are quiet, produce zero emissions, and are more energy-efficient in the long run. While their initial cost is higher, electric forklifts can save money on fuel and maintenance over time.
Internal Combustion (IC) Engines: IC forklifts run on diesel, petrol, or LPG. They are robust, making them perfect for outdoor tasks and heavy-duty operations. However, they produce emissions and are less suitable for confined spaces.
Tires – Cushion or pneumatic
The type of tyres on your forklift is crucial for safe and effective operation, depending on the terrain.
Cushion tyres: These work best on smooth, indoor surfaces like warehouse floors. They provide excellent manoeuvrability in tight spaces.
Pneumatic tyres: Designed for rough terrain, these tyres offer better stability and durability on outdoor surfaces like gravel or uneven ground.
Choosing the right tyres ensures your forklift can handle the environment it will operate in without unnecessary wear.
Attachments and accessories
Customising your forklift with the right attachments can boost efficiency and adaptability.
Fork positioners: These allow for quick adjustments, saving time when handling different loads.
Side shifters: Enable precise positioning of loads, especially in confined areas.
Specialised forks or clamps: Perfect for industries requiring unique handling solutions, like paper rolls or crates.
By focusing on these features, you can confidently select a forklift that meets your operational demands and provides long-term value for your investment.
Planning your forklift budget
Creating a realistic budget is a crucial part of this forklift purchasing tips guide. Planning your expenses upfront ensures you can make an informed decision without exceeding your financial limits. Here’s how to approach budgeting for a forklift purchase.
Understand the total cost of ownership
The price of the forklift itself is just one part of the equation. To avoid surprises, factor in hidden costs such as:
Maintenance and repairs: Regular servicing is essential to keep your forklift running smoothly. Budget for routine maintenance and potential repairs over its lifetime.
Operator training: Proper training ensures safety and efficiency. Consider the cost of certifying operators if they’re not already qualified.
Fuel or charging costs: Electric forklifts require charging infrastructure, while internal combustion models incur fuel expenses.
Look for financial incentives
Take advantage of tax benefits and government schemes that can reduce your costs.
Tax write-offs: Many businesses can claim deductions on equipment purchases, including forklifts. This reduces your taxable income and saves money.
Grants and schemes: In Australia, some industries may qualify for government support or rebates. Research what’s available to you.
Ensuring safety and maintenance
One of the most important forklift purchasing tips is to prioritise safety and maintenance. A well-maintained forklift not only ensures smooth operations but also keeps your employees and workplace safe. Choosing a model with the right safety features and a realistic maintenance plan is essential for long-term success.
Low-maintenance models vs regular servicing
When purchasing a forklift, consider how much time and resources you can dedicate to maintenance.
Low-maintenance models: These forklifts are designed to minimise the need for frequent servicing. Electric forklifts, for instance, have fewer moving parts compared to internal combustion models, making them easier to maintain. For businesses with limited maintenance resources, this can be a cost-effective choice.
Regular servicing: Forklifts that undergo routine servicing last longer and perform better. Scheduled maintenance checks help identify potential issues before they become costly repairs. Preventive care, such as checking tyres, brakes, and hydraulics, ensures your forklift stays safe and reliable.
The benefits of preventive care
Investing in regular maintenance may seem like an additional expense, but it saves money in the long run. Proper servicing reduces the risk of unexpected breakdowns, improves fuel efficiency, and extends the lifespan of your forklift.
Prioritising safety features and maintenance protects your investment while keeping your team secure and your operations running smoothly.
Conclusion
Making the right decision when buying a forklift starts with thoughtful planning and understanding your business needs. By following these forklift purchasing tips, you can choose equipment that improves efficiency, ensures safety, and offers long-term value. From assessing usage requirements to considering new vs used options and budgeting for ongoing costs, every step plays a vital role in finding the perfect fit.
At Hyworth Forklifts, we understand that choosing a forklift can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time buyers. That’s why we’re here to help. Our team of industry experts offers personalised advice and a wide range of forklifts for sale or hire, ensuring you find a solution tailored to your specific requirements.
Ready to make your forklift purchase simple and stress-free? Contact Hyworth Forklifts today for expert guidance and reliable equipment that supports your business success. Let us help you take the next step with confidence!
