9 KEY THINGS TO CHECK BEFORE HIRING A FORKLIFT

Hiring a forklift isn’t as simple as choosing the first one available. The right forklift will make your operations safer, more efficient and more cost-effective.

From assessing your site needs, to understanding your load and lift requirements, to ensuring your operators are licensed, there are multiple essential checks to make before hiring a forklift.

1: Assess Your Site Needs

Deciding what type of forklift your site needs is the first critical step. You need to identify:

• The main tasks the forklift needs to complete, whether it will be carrying heavy loads or reaching high shelves
• The type of forklift required based on those tasks (reach trucks for height, for example)
• The environment: you may need it for rough terrain or a hazardous environment

2: Understand Your Forklift Load and Lift Requirements

To determine the exact type of forklift you need, check the maximum load weight it needs to handle. You also need to check that its maximum lift height can reach the highest shelf in your facility, if shelf picking is needed.

You also need to factor in the forklift’s load centre, as a heavy load can reduce the point at which the lift height is safe. Overloading your forklift can result in costly damage to it and other equipment.

3: Fuel Type

Choosing a forklift fuel type is much more crucial than you might think; decide carefully based on the use case for the forklift.

• Electric forklifts: ideal for indoor projects because they are quieter than other types.
• Diesel forklifts: the extra power suits heavy-duty projects on rough terrain.
• Gas forklifts: the most versatile choice; ideal for outdoor and indoor work.

Other factors to consider include on-site fuel availability and running costs.

4: Specialised Forklift Features

Once you have an idea of the type of forklift you require, consider whether you need any specialised features. This can include environment-based features, such as rough terrain capability, cold storage modifications, or corrosion-proof models when working in hazardous environments.

Specialised attachments are also worth browsing. These are usually for handling specific materials and can include extended forks, rotators and clamps.

5: Forklift Availability

It’s always beneficial to start the forklift hire process early. Contact suppliers as early as possible, especially if you need a product during peak demand periods. If you cannot get your first choice, consider asking about alternative options.

Additionally, if you need several units, ask if the supplier can provide them together.

Finally, always remember to confirm the forklift’s condition and request its service records.

6: Hire Duration and Rates

Comparison is critical when choosing the best forklift hire option. Compare hire costs with all suppliers you contact to get the most cost-effective option.

Scrutinising the fine print is also a smart way to approach this process, especially the terms of hire and cancellation policies.

7: Delivery and Pickup for the Forklift

Delivery and pick up will have their own costs and timelines to consider:

• Is delivery and pickup included in the hire cost?
• Is special transport (a low loader, for example) required?
• Will the current delivery timeline cause a delay to the project?
• Is there safe unloading access and space at your site?

8: Compliance and Training Requirements

All operators must complete accredited training and receive a certificate to demonstrate competence on the chosen class of equipment. Companies should keep copies of all operator certificates on file for necessary compliance checks. Penalties for unlicensed forklift operators can include fines and legal consequences for the operator and the company.

Additional training may be required to familiarise operators with the controls and any new attachments required for the forklift. Training must also cover any hazards specific to your site.

9: Servicing and Repairs

Regular servicing and repair (where necessary) are critical, especially for long-term contract hire.

At Rushlift, we provide ongoing maintenance, inspections and repairs to keep your forklifts in perfect condition.

Additionally, our service team is available 365 days of the year, ensuring minimal downtime for your operations.

Rushlift’s Forklift Hire Service

These checks are all essential to find the perfect forklift truck hire solution for your operation. When these checks are applied to Rushlift, we pass with flying colours.

Our contract hire service is reliable, efficient, cost-effective and fully flexible and transparent. We provide the highest quality equipment, along with the support of our experts, leading to enhanced productivity at your site. Additionally, you can accurately monitor forklift performance with our web-based Fleet Management System (FMS).

Get in touch with us here or call us at 0800 731 5035 to talk to our experts and find the right forklift for your project.