Forklifts are critical for all manufacturing and warehousing functions. This indispensable machine’s first model was built in the United States by a company called Clark in 1917.

1. What you need to know before buying a Forklift
Forklifts are critical for all manufacturing and warehousing functions. This indispensable
machine’s first model was built in the United States by a company called Clark in 1917. The
‘Tructractor’, as it was named then, was used to haul materials between different
departments of Clark’s axle plant. The practicality of the machine gained popularity for the
next few years, and many companies started to invent and manufacture variations of the lift
truck. Production increased after the introduction of the standardized pallet in 1930. The
World War II further increased demand, and by the end of the war, lift trucks had spread to
Europe too.

2. Introduction
Today, an efficient forklift is necessary in most industries for smooth operations. Choosing
the right forklift for your material handling needs is vital. It needs to be as productive as
possible, while keeping in mind the cost-effectiveness, employee skills and training,
frequency of usage etc. To make the best decision, always consider the following points
before making a purchase:
1. Daily usage of the machine: Before purchasing a machine, it is important to assess
your operating hours and costs to decide whether you need one. Some
manufacturers prefer to rent forklifts as it saves them from paying for repair and
upkeep. However, if you use a forklift for more than four hours a day, it is cost-
effective to purchase one.
2. Environment of operation: The type of tires and the fuel source of a forklift differ
according to its environment of operation. If your machine is going to be used
outdoors, it will have to be equipped to deal with uneven surfaces. In that case, opt
for a machine with pneumatic tires, or rough-terrain tires for especially unstable
ground. Forklifts with internal combustion engines are best for outdoor work. For
machines used indoors, cushion tires are the best fit. Electric forklifts produce no
emissions and make no noise, making them ideal for indoor use.
3. Type of Load: The size and weight of the materials to be carried by the forklift is a
very important factor to consider before purchase is made. The average load to be
carried, the size of the materials, how high they need to be lifted- different forklifts
are equipped with different capacities for each of these functionalities. Different
attachments (such as a weighing scale) can be added to your forklift according to
specific needs.
4. Movement and Maneuverability: Warehouse height and aisle width need to be
taken into account when choosing a forklift. For stacking purposes, a forklift with a
compact design and stable legs will be needed. Articulated forklifts are designed for
very narrow spaces. Other operating spaces may have sharp turns and will require a
tight-turn radius to navigate in small spaces. There are many attachments available
for specific movement needs.
5. Comfort and Safety: Operating a forklift can mean sitting for hours at a time.
Investing in a machine that pays attention to comfort and functionality for user can
have a great impact on employee productivity and morale. It will also lessen the
likelihood of injuries and reduce the physical strain on the operator.

3. The average lifespan of a forklift, depending on the quality of the machine, can be anywhere
between 10,000-20,000 hours. Hence, it is a long-term investment that must be not be made
lightly. The right choice can have marked effects on efficiency and output. To ensure that a
forklift functions well for a long time, one must choose an appropriate model and carry out
proactive maintenance.