In the mid-19th century, the invention of a new tool offered a solution to the desperate need for labor and improved productivity. Which tool?

The forklift. Now, over 800,000 are in use around the United States.

Here’s a brief synopsis that covers everything you need to know about forklift history.

Early Forklift History

During the second wave of industrialization, one of the early models of the forklift was a “truck” that could move material with the help of a platform. Now commonly known as a dolly cart, this manually operated tool enabled workers to lift heavy objects without the physical strain.

In 1906, the Pennsylvania Railroad Company realized they could use this tool to allow for easier transport as well as lifting. With storage batteries, they created one of the first powered trucks.

Standing in front of the machines, operators could raise and lower the platform using controls. 

Soon, factories and warehouses welcomed the use of these trucks and saw a boost in efficiency and productivity, like the railways.

In the United States, companies like Clarke and Yale were credited for the invention and some of the first major improvements to the forklift. 

Clarke introduced lifts with hydraulic power while Yale was the first to use a pair of forks as the lifting mechanism. Additionally, they attached masts that could reach beyond the height of the truck, allowing for placement on higher surfaces. 

World War II

The war effort created a greater dependency on this new equipment. The workforce was declining and forklifts were used to streamline efficiency and maximize storage opportunities. 

Forklifts were adjusted to have smaller bodies that fit in tighter spaces. This afforded more room in warehouses for inventory. Lifts were made taller to allow for greater stacking potential.

Eventually, forklifts gained a greater range of mobility and could be moved side to side. Now, regardless of your operational setting, the plethora of models available make it easy to find a forklift that meets your needs. 

OSHA

Forklifts became a staple in lumberyards, distribution centers, and construction sites, requiring a new focus on safety. 

Drivers were equipped with operational licenses. The lifts were made with seat belts as well as cages to minimize workplace injuries. Technologically, there was an emphasis on weight balance. This would prevent equipment from tipping over under the pressure of heavy loads.

Reliance on this equipment was encouraged. Lifts with internal combustion engines (ICE) powered with liquid propane or diesel fuel were in demand. They enabled lifts to be used for greater periods. 

Unfortunately, the longer they ran, the more exhaust emission they released, which can be hazardous in enclosed spaces. This led to an implementation of emission standards.

Alternatively, some forks are powered by electric motors, which are often found in indoor facilities.

The Future for Forklifts 

If forklift history has shown anything, it is that the success of your operations correlates with the capabilities of your tools.

Pre-owned machinery and trade-ins are even available for cost-efficient options.

If you’re looking for a forklift, contact us today! We can answer questions and help you improve your workplace. 

Are you in the market for a forklift?

When shopping, it’s important to do some research to find out which is the best forklift for your industry. Different forklifts may be better-suited to warehouse work, lumber work, or building site work.

Wherever there is lifting to be done, you can count on a forklift. And there’s a lot of lifting to be done at a lumberyard.

Which forklift is the best forklift for the lumberyard? Stick around and find out.

Best Forklift for Lumberyards

What makes a forklift better or worse for lumberyard work? There’s a lot of lifting to be done at a lumberyard, and most of its heavy lifting.

You’ll want a  large forklift with some power, as opposed to a small forklift. Based on fleets we’ve seen in the past, diesel forklifts typically make the best forklift for a lumberyard setting.

You’ll also want to consider what type of forks can fit the front of the forklift. Special forks are needed when moving lumber. The forks need to be thinner and wider to move product more easily and reduce the possibility of damage to the lumber.

Other Features

In addition to wood-specific forks and diesel power, there are some other things you may want to consider when purchasing your lumberyard forklift.

You’ll want a forklift with great balance. Lifts with dual front tires and counterweights give the added stability necessary when lifting heavy loads of wood.

Also, a forklift with a side-shifter comes in handy in the lumber industry. This allows your operator to adjust the forks without having to leave the operator’s cab.

Questions When Buying

There are a few questions you should ask when buying a forklift for the lumberyard. You’ll want to keep in mind how heavy the loads you’ll be carrying are. Is the operating area going to be outside or inside?

What type of surfaces will your forklift be driven on? How many hours will it be used daily?

All of these questions play a role in determining the forklift that’s right for your business. Getting a forklift that doesn’t exactly meet your needs could be a big waste of money, or worse, could be downright dangerous. Doing your research is an important step in the process.

Shocking Development

Diesel may not rule the lumberyard for much longer. In a “shocking” development, electric lifts are gaining popularity for their functionality and strength. They also hold up well to outdoor use.

The decreased maintenance and “green” benefits of electric forklifts make them an attractive option. However, for now, diesel is still the most popular.

Making Like a Tree

We hope we’ve given you some insight on how to choose the best forklift for a lumberyard. Regardless of the business, the same rules apply.

Take into consideration how, where, what for, and how often the forklift will be used. There should be no problem in selecting the perfect fit.

If you need help deciding, you can always browse our inventory or give us a call. We’d be happy to help. We can even help set up a payment plan that’s right for you!

Now, it’s time for us to make like a tree and leaf!

Forklifts are an essential piece of equipment for moving heavy materials, yet, they can put a huge hole in your budget when you buy them new.

If you’re a professional who needs a forklift on-site, don’t overpay for a new forklift. Consider buying used!

Keep reading to learn more about pricing a used forklift.

Determining the Value of a Used Forklift

While used forklifts are a great option, it’s important to know that you’re getting a good deal.

Part of this is knowing the value of various used forklifts. Here are some factors that impact the pricing of a used forklift:

The Manufacturer of the Forklift

If a used forklift is from a well-known and reputable brand, it’s going to cost a little more than its counterparts.

Since you’ll know that the forklift still has quite a long life, you’re getting a better deal than if you bought a less valuable forklift for less money.

The Forklift’s Power

Another factor that will impact how much you pay for a used forklift is the power of the forklift.

The higher the load capacity, the more expensive a used forklift will be. A higher capacity will allow more work to be done in less time, so naturally, the price will be a little bit higher.

In addition to load capacity, the lifting power will impact the value of the used forklift. Having a strong lift power is essential for professionals who are transporting large items. Since this feature makes the forklift more versatile, the price will be a bit higher.

If you’re in search of a forklift for smaller loads and items, you can get away with buying a less-expensive forklift with less power.

Type of Engine

For the most part, the type of engine your forklift has won’t make a huge impact on the value.

On the other hand, the type of engine will have an impact on how much the forklift costs over time. For example, a battery-powered forklift will cost less over time than a forklift that’s powered by diesel or gasoline.

While the battery may need to be replaced every so often, gas is more expensive over time.

Use of the Forklift

The number of times the previous owner used the forklift will also impact the value.

A forklift’s age is determined by the number of hours it has been used rather than the miles that have been used. When purchasing a used forklift, it’s important to look at how many hours it has been used as well as how many hours you plan on using it.

This will help you ensure that the forklift has enough time left for your investment to be worth it.

Are You Ready to Invest in a Used Forklift?

For the most part, a used forklift will be much more affordable than a new forklift.

If you need a forklift, consider buying used to save yourself some money while getting a great piece of equipment!

To buy a used forklift or trade-in yours, reach out to us today!