Material Handling

Thursday, November 30, 2017

What's Right For You?



If you’ve ever read our blog before, then you know not all forklifts are the same. Forklifts are created to suit a variety of needs for a variety of businesses, large and small. Knowing this one may wonder how to choose a forklift that fits their business. Well this blog will cover some of the basics on choosing a forklift that is best for you!


How Much Do You Know?

1.     It is important to consider fuel type when choosing a forklift?
a.     Yes, because you need to be able to properly charge or fuel your forklift.
b.     No, it’s simple to accommodate for the fueling and charging of a forklift.
2.     What is one of the most important measurements you can take before purchasing a forklift?
a.     The measurements of the forklift itself, in addition to lift height.
b.     The measurements of all doors the forklift will be passing through.
c.     The measurements of the shelving the forklift will be placing things on.
d.     All of the above.
3.     It’s important to know if you want something new or used.
a.     True
b.     False
4.     It is never a bad idea to have your own, or a third-party mechanic check out the forklift before purchase.
a.     True
b.     False
 
Get This…
Purchasing a forklift is not an easy feat. Purchasing your first forklift can be even more difficult. When purchasing a forklift there are some key things you should take into consideration. Below is a list that will aid you in the purchase of your forklift!
1.     Environment: A businesses’ environment strongly influences what type of forklift will work best for you. Some things to keep in mind are floor type and condition, whether the forklift will be outside or inside, and how big is the space that you have.
2.     Weight Capacity/Load Size: You don’t want to purchase a forklift that won’t be able to lift the things you need it to. So looking at what type of material you will be lifting the weight of that material and the size of that material is very important. From there you can determine what your forklift’s weight capacity needs to be.
3.     Height: Height is incredibly important. You want to make sure your forklift can reach all your shelving, while at the same time is able to fit through the doorways and garage doors that enclose your building.
4.     Tires: Some forklift tires are made for indoor use, while others are made for outdoor use.
5.     Fuel Type: There are three main fuel types that forklifts can use: LP, gas, and electric. Knowing your surrounding area is very important in determining which fuel type you will choose. In addition, fuel type can play a role in current and future costs that one will incur.
6.     New or Used: Knowing if a new or used forklift is right for the job you need is also an important factor, and can strongly influence cost!
Can You Answer This Question???
When discussing forklifts which part of the forklift does the word “ergonomics” typically refer to?
A.    The Forks
B.    The Engine
C.    The Seat
Ergonomics is defined by Webster as, “an applied science concerned with designing and arranging things people use so that the people and things interact most efficiently and safely.” I suppose this definition could fit with almost any of these answers, but the correct answer is C. Seats that utilize ergonomics, and are easily adjusted can help operators work for long periods of time and prevent back injuries.

Get The Facts!
Figuring out what type of forklift suits your companies needs is incredibly important, but almost equally important is making sure you have of age, certified drivers! Making sure your drivers are properly certified is not only the law, but it will save you a ton of hassle in the long run. Having properly certified drivers decreases the risk of accidents and injuries, and ensures that you will not be fined by OSHA.
…So Call
At Omega we can help you with all sorts of forklift inquiries and needs. Let us know what you’re looking for, and we’ll find it! We also offer forklift driver training classes! So if you are in need of our expertise, don’t be afraid to reach out. Our number is (513) 842-2012.




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