Author: piggybackforklifts

Whether you own a warehouse, a construction business, or are looking to increase your efficiency for a personal project, you can hardly go wrong with Princeton forklifts. There’s no better way to lift and haul heavy materials and objects over short distances. 

However, before you sign any contracts or lay any money down on these versatile machines, there are a few things you need to consider. For example, what will you be using the forklift for? What type of terrain will it be driving over?

Not sure where to begin the buying process? Don’t worry, we’re here to provide some answers. Keep reading for everything you need to know about finding the best forklift for your needs.

1. Costs

As with any business or personal investment, you need to think about the costs. How much money can you afford to comfortably invest in Princeton forklifts? How many do you need?

However, while the cost is an important determining factor, it shouldn’t be the only consideration. For example, a lower cost forklift could have poorer performance reviews, come without a warranty, or have safety issues. 

Finally, ask about financing and leasing options. Most business owners and private contractors don’t have the funds necessary to pay for a forklift outright. 

2. Warranties

Next, even when buying used forklifts, it may be important for you to find options that come with warranties. You need to know you’re investing in a quality product backed by the seller. 

Many retailers offer warranties that offer bumper to bumper and drivetrain coverage for a certain number of months. However, in some cases, you can opt for extended warranties that protect your investment for even longer.

3. Reviews

One of the best things you can do as an educated consumer is to research the products you’re interested in before you buy. This includes ensuring the company from which you’re buying is also credible. 

Check out the seller’s website and social media pages to see if they post customer reviews and testimonials. If not, perform a Google search to find the appropriate references. 

4. Performance Specs

Before buying Princeton forklifts, you should also take some time to determine what you’ll need from your purchase. Different forklifts come with different load capacities. 

Similarly, some forklifts are powered by diesel motors and gas motors while others are powered electrically. While it may be more economically-friendly to opt for a battery-powered forklift, you’ll also be limited on load capacity.

5. Movement and Mobility

Finally, think about the mobility and movement of your forklift. Is your forklift going to be used indoors or outdoors? Also, consider the maximum height you need to forklift to reach.

Finally, you need to think about maneuverability. Do you need a tight turning radius? Does the forklift need to be able to fit into tight spaces?

Looking at Princeton Forklifts?

As you can see, there are a lot of factors that go into choosing the right Princeton forklift. We’re here to help you figure out what you need. Contact us today to learn more about our products are ask any questions you may have about your future investment, we’d love to help.

Believe it or not, over 1 million forklifts are sold annually around the world. The reason for this is simple: They’re extremely useful. Businesses invest in and use forklifts all the time, even businesses you wouldn’t expect to need one. 

This is because forklifts, especially Moffett forklifts, provide several key benefits. Read on to learn about 5 of the benefits a Moffett forklift provides to your business.

1. Make Moving Heavy Objects Easier

It may seem intuitive, but having a forklift makes moving heavy objects easier. The key thing to note, though, is that it’s not just industrial or construction companies that have heavy items to lift. No matter what your business, there’s like large loads of inventory, products, or more that you could use a forklift for. 

With the ease of moving heavy items, you waste less time on less efficient means. Just make sure that your employee is safely trained to use the machinery. 

2. Save Money

Since your business is bound to need to do some heavy lifting here and there, owning a Moffett forklift means saving money. This is because you won’t have to repeatedly pay to rent one or for others to move heavy objects for you. These costs add up. 

You’ll also gain a valuable asset and get to pay fewer staff members to spend their time moving items.  

If you’re unsure about the cost upfront, there are great leasing options available. 

3. The Portable Choice

Moffetts also make some of the best forklifts because they are portable and can be mounted to the back of a truck with ease. This means you can take it wherever you need it, saving you valuable time and effort. They’ll also take up less space in your truck. 

4. Improve Your Service

Another of many Moffett forklift benefits is that they improve your service to your clients or customers. This is because whenever it saves you time, it streamlines your process and also saves time for your customers. This is especially the case if you provide large products or a delivery service. 

Improving your efficiency gives you a competitive advantage, helping you to retain and gain more customers. 

5. Sheer Endurance

When it comes to Moffett forklift pros over other types, it’s also worth mentioning their high quality. Well constructed with strong materials and with design in mind, they’re meant to truly last for the long haul. They are also built to endure any terrain or environment. 

As a result, you can expect a long-lasting product that’s low maintenance. This is part of the reason why buying one used is no problem. 

Invest in Moffett Forklifts Today

When it comes down to it, Moffett forklifts provide businesses with a variety of benefits that make them well worth the investment. It doesn’t matter what business you run, if there’s any heavy lifting involved, a forklift can save you time and money. 

If you found this article helpful and are in need of a forklift for your business, be sure to check out our wide selection of used Moffett forklifts.

You need a forklift for your business, and you need one fast. Some big projects are happening, and having a forklift on the job would definitely make your business run smoother and your life a lot easier.

That being said, you aren’t exactly sure which forklift is the right one for your needs. After all, there are tons of different styles out there, and each one offers its own specific set of skills for a specific set of tasks.

Why not look into piggyback forklifts? A piggyback forklift offers plenty of benefits no matter the job, and it’s one that can do more for your company than you could imagine. Read on to find out all about the piggyback forklift benefits for your business needs!

1. Piggyback Forklifts Cut Time in Half

It’s always when you need a forklift the most that one isn’t even around. A piggyback forklift can change that.

A piggyback forklift, also known as a truck mounted forklift, is a forklift that’s designed to hitch a ride to the back of an 18-wheeler and travel with it to its destination. These forklifts have become crucial in this manner because they’re ready to work the moment you make it to your stop, drastically cutting down on work time and allowing for swift transportation of goods.

2. They Can Be Used Anywhere

Many forklifts are designed to work in a specific environment, such as the warehouse or in rough streets, but the piggyback forklift is made to work pretty much wherever you need it. One moment, it can move packages across the city, then turn around and deliver building supplies, and then go on to handle hazardous materials right after. It truly is a jack of all trades.

3. They’re Built to Endure

The piggyback forklift is made lightweight to be carried on the road, but don’t let that fool you. This forklift was created hardy and is designed to last. Rough terrain and bad weather don’t stand a chance, and the design allows it to be carried around and used for many years. You can’t mess up when you invest in the piggyback forklift!

We’ve Got the Forklifts You Need

Now that you know all about the benefits of piggyback forklifts, you’re probably wanting to get your hands on one of your own. Before you do that, you want to make sure you’re buying a quality product from a business you can trust. We’re the right people to help you with the job.

At 99 Lifts, working with forklifts is all that we do – and we’re really good at it. We help companies like you get their hands on the products they need to do the job right. Our selection includes a wide range of used forklifts with low hours, so you can be sure you’re getting a good deal. We even service forklifts, so we can help keep your equipment in top condition for years to come.

Ready to get started? So are we. Browse through our site to find out more about what we have to offer, or reach out to us if you have any questions or are ready to buy a forklift of your own. Let’s get you on the road to success!

Wondering how to maintain a forklift properly? Searching for the best forklift maintenance tips?

Owning a forklift can be helpful in a warehouse setting and can be used for a variety of great reasons. However, if you have a forklift or are thinking about getting one, you need to make sure you’re prepared to maintain it. It’s critical that you give your forklift the right amount of care if you want it to keep working properly over time.

Fortunately, we’re here to guide you. Here are the 5 steps you need to take when maintaining your forklift.

1. Inspect Your Forklift Regularly

The first step to maintaining a forklift is to get into the habit of regularly inspecting it.

Ideally, you should check your forklift daily before each use to ensure that everything is functioning correctly and to ensure there aren’t any safety hazards that could be cause for concern.

It’s a great idea to create a forklift checklist that you’ll use every time you inspect it. This checklist should include checking tire pressure, hoses, fluid levels, and brakes, along with other essential parts of your forklift.

2. Create a Maintenance Schedule

There are many maintenance tasks that you’ll need to complete on a regular basis to ensure it keeps working well week after week and month after month. It’s best to perform these tasks on a regular schedule.

Some of the most important maintenance tasks include charging the forklift battery properly, getting an oil change every 3 months, checking the tires, and ensuring adequate fluid levels. You’ll also want to keep any moving parts of the forklift well-greased.

3. Keep Your Forklift Clean

In addition to inspecting and maintaining your forklift, you should also make sure that you clean it thoroughly and on a regular schedule. Cleaning your forklift once a week will be ideal for keeping your equipment in prime condition.

Cleaning your forklift is important because it can help to get rid of any harmful buildup that could block the radiator or other parts of the forklift and prevent it from functioning as it should. It can also reduce wear and tear and help extend the life of the forklift.

4. Deal With Problems Early

If you own a forklift, you need to take its care seriously. If you notice any problems with your forklift or if there are any damaged parts or components, you need to get them fixed as soon as possible.

If a problem is in its early stages, then getting it fixed immediately will ensure that it doesn’t get any worse. This will help you prevent serious damage from occurring and will help you ensure that you don’t spend any more money than necessary to keep your forklift in working order.

5. Ensure Proper Forklift Operation

One of the best things you can do to keep your forklift in great shape is to ensure that it is being used correctly.

A forklift that isn’t misused can experience a lot of damage and may experience extra wear and tear. Instead, ensure that any workers that use the forklift have been properly trained and licensed for the type of forklift you have.

Maintaining Your Forklift With These Tips

If you own a forklift, it’s crucial that you give it the attention and care it deserves. By following the steps above you’ll make sure that your forklift stays in great shape and keeps running strong for a long time to come.

Looking for a great used forklift? Contact us today to learn more about what we can do for you. 

Your forklift purchase is nothing to sneeze at. Forklifts range from $20,000 to $100,000. So when you shell out money for a brand new piece of equipment you want it to meet your needs.

Before you buy your next forklift check out these 11 Princeton forklift facts so you can be sure to get the right one.

1. 30 Years of Truck-Mounted Forklift Experience

Princeton Manufacturing is one of the leading North American manufacturers of truck-mounted forklift products. In 1972 Princeton began producing sod harvesting equipment near Columbus, OH. By 1979 they developed the first PiggyBack®, their signature brand of forklift.

This forklift grew in popularity through its many uses for building materials, agriculture, roofing, lumber, and other markets. Its many years of experience has led to the quality product we see today.

2. Broadest Range of Products

Princeton’s many years of production have led them to become the industry’s broadest range of three-wheel drive smooth and rough terrain products on the market. They offer lifting capacities from 3,300 to 8,000 lbs.

3. Easy to Maneuver

The PiggyBack® is known for having 4-way movement capabilities that make it easy to transport long loads through narrow areas. You won’t have to worry about getting stuck or damaging your job site while transporting things like engineered lumber, windows, or doors.

4. Easy Hitch Hook Mounting System

When it comes to transporting your Princeton forklift, you want to be able to hitch it and go. Rather than wasting time trying to mount your forklift to a truck or trailer. Luckily, PiggyBacks® are patented with Princeton’s Easy Hitch Hook Mounting System which makes mounting super easy, fast, and flexible.

The Easy Hitch mounting system is designed to take all the weight off the hydraulic components. Instead, all the weight is carried on the PiggyBack®’s hooks and the tires act as shock absorbers. This gives you a smooth and safe ride.

Princeton forklifts can be mounted to almost any existing truck or trailer. They also offer “Double-Reach” masts which make one-sided vehicle unloading a breeze.

5. Variety of Models

No matter what the job, Princeton has a model of forklifts to suit your needs. They come in a variety of sizes and engines so you’ll have the horsepower you need to complete the job.

Purchasing a used Princeton forklift can save you money without sacrificing quality in your forklift. The right forklift can save your operators time, increase productivity, and be cost-effective.

6. Princeton Forklifts Meet Your Needs

When it comes to choosing the right forklift, you will need to consider many factors. This includes the power source, lift height, and its maneuverability in sensitive areas.

Oftentimes you will not only want to buy the forklift that matches your particular business process but exceeds them. There are a variety of models and Princeton forklift specs to meet your needs.

If you’re unsure which machine is right for you, you can always consult a reputable dealer for their expert advice.

7. Save On Unloading Time

The Princeton PiggyBack® Forklift System has a wide range of applications that can serve your organization. These include quick and easy delivery of products such as beverages, bottled gas, bricks, pavers, windows, doors, and pallets.

The forklifts can be dismounted in less than 60 seconds and used in any weather condition. You won’t even have to wait for a loading dock to become available because your Princeton forklift can be driven easily through a back entrance.

This is great for other deliveries that don’t have a loading dock such as at a fairground. You can not only reduce the time wasted waiting in line for a dock but eliminate the need for a co-driver.

8. Increase Efficiency

Princeton forklifts are so easy to use and maneuver that you will instantly see an increase in efficiency for your organization. When delivering products such as concrete or other materials, the typical method is to deliver a large flatbed truck or truck-mounted crane to the site.

Once delivered, the customer then moves the materials again to the specific work area. Now with the PiggyBack®, it is faster and easier to deliver materials to the exact spot they are most needed.

This saves time and money while also reducing the risk of product damage during transportation. Better yet, any corrections needed for the delivery are easily resolved.

9. Replace the Hassle of Towing

If you currently tow your forklifts, then you can probably already see the benefit of having a more portable vehicle. You won’t have to deal with the hassle of towed vehicles or trailered forklifts because of Princeton’s PiggyBack® Truck-Mounted Forklift.

It is unloaded instantly and can easily get your product delivered or moved to where it needs to go.

10. Unmatched Stability

If your work requires you to move large lumber, roofing, drywall, or other heavy construction material, then you need a piece of equipment that can handle the load with ease and precision.

These forklifts will allow you to deliver heavy items without worrying about the stability of the machine. It’s compact size coupled with impressive maneuverability and strength, makes them ideal for demanding construction projects.

11. Transformed Sod Delivery

One industry that saw amazing results from these forklifts has been the sod industry. In fact, Princeton is still known as the industry choice for the 21st century. That’s because their forklifts were able to transform this labor-intensive job into a 20-minute stop.

Princeton forklifts offer capacities of up to 8,000 lbs along with other special features to meet your needs. Whether or not you’re in the sod industry, these tough forklifts will eliminate the stress of transporting heavy stuff.

Is a Princeton Forklift Right for You?

These are some of the benefits of owning a Princeton forklift. If you’re wondering which forklift will be right for your job, then be sure to contact us to learn more about our available forklifts.

We have many models available for you to choose from at a cost that is reasonable for your budget. Check out our site to learn more about purchasing one of these cost-saving forklifts.

Getting a forklift from one job site to another can be tough, and you might not even have thought about transporting forklifts from site to site when planning a job.

But if you need to move a forklift, especially long-distance, you should know what options you have for loading, shipping, and delivering this type of heavy equipment.

Read on to find the best method for your forklift transport.

Piggyback Forklifts

One way to move a forklift is to purchase a “piggyback” forklift and pair it with a regular truck or trailer.

The forklift pulls up to the back of the trailer or truck and the forks stick into a specialized mounting system. Then the forklift raises and pulls itself into a mounting position, “piggybacking” on the back of the trailer or truck. 

Although these types of forklifts are not cheap, buying a used and refurbished piggyback will be a great investment if you are moving lifts often.   

Flatbed Truck Forklift Transport

Because of its weight, a flatbed truck is one of the tried and true methods of moving a forklift to a different location.

If the forklift is not electric, and you don’t mind it being carted out in the open, you can simply place the lift on a flatbed for delivery, usually the cheaper method.

If the forklift needs protection, you can place it into a storage container which is then placed on the truck or trailer.  This method will cost you a little more and you will need to drain the forklift of all fluids before loading. 

If you are trying to lower costs, you can do the flatbed transport yourself, provided you know how to load the lift onto the truck, as well as other safety concerns.

Forklift Delivery Service

It might be worth the extra money to hire a professional lift delivery service, instead of going it alone.

Make sure you get multiple quotes from delivery services that are licensed and insured and look for good reviews of each online. You want qualified and certified drivers who have training in every aspect of moving lifts.

Heavy Equipment Shipping Broker

A shipping broker puts you in touch with transport trucks that might have extra space in their regularly-scheduled haul for your forklift.

A good broker will coordinate all logistics and other details for your forklift pickup and delivery. Depending on the arrangement, this method might save you both money and headaches. 

Things to Factor In

Your choice for forklift transport is determined by how many lifts you need to move, the size of the lifts, the distance they need to travel, and how often you need to move them. 

Whether you choose to do it yourself or use delivery, contact us. We can give you quotes on the equipment and services you will need. Plan for your forklift transport from the start so that you always have these machines ready to go on your job sites!

You’re in the height of busy season at your warehouse. New inventory just gets shipped in, and needs to be filed away properly to get distributed to customers.

As your warehouse manager lifts the heavy inventory on the company forklift, your worst nightmare unfolds: the forklift starts to smoke. It’s fried.

The budget is tight, and inventory needs to move to get you out of the hole. But you need a new forklift. What do you do?

Have you considered a refurbished truck mounted forklift? This could be the perfect cost-cutting solution to save the day.

Read on and see if it’s the right fit for you.

What Is A Truck Mounted Forklift

A truck mounted forklift can be attached to the back of a truck and be more easily transported than a standard forklift. It comes in handy when you need the utility of a forklift in a remote location, or if you need a forklift transported from one inventory location to another.

The great thing about truck mounted forklifts is you don’t have to compromise on saftey, functionality, or ergonomics. You’ll still have all the benefits of a standard forklift, but in a smaller, more portable package.

Benefits

Having a more nimble forklift would add a lot of advantages to your business. Logistics would become streamlined, and more efficient, which would spur on profitability.

A truck mounted forklift is useful for a variety of scenarios. They can do everything from deliver goods in an urban street environment to delivering building materials on a rocky, hilly construction. There’s nowhere it can’t go!

Why Refurbished

The most obvious reason to go with a refurbished forklift is the cost savings. You may be able to save around 50% up-front when buying a used forklift, as opposed to new.

The unintended benefit is this reduced price will allow you to shop among some of the best brands because you’re not buying brand new.

Why Moffett

You have a lot of brands to choose from, so why Moffett? Moffett offers truck-mounted forklifts, but not just any forklifts.

Moffett forklifts are designed and built with the customer in mind. From the size, shape, and functionality to the materials used. Nothing is left out.

Moffett forklifts are designed with quality materials, making them easier to maintain than other forklifts on the market. Moffett also takes the time to increase the ergonomics of their design. This helps to skyrocket ease of use and comfort through the roof!

If all of those features weren’t enough, Moffett lifts are the pinnacle of safety as well. Each forklift comes equipped with everything from dual seatbelts to overhead guards. Extra safety precautions will minimize warehouse incidents, and help protect your bottom line.

Time to Buy

If you need some heavy lifting done, a truck mounted forklift is the choice for you. Take it wherever you need, lift whatever needs lifting, and don’t worry about the safety of your employees. Moffett has it all covered.

If you’re in the market for a forklift, contact us today and we would be happy to discuss your options.

Forklift accidents that result in serious injury occur 34,900 times a year. These machines are no joke but can make work life a lot easier. If only there was a forklift out there that is safer to use and gets every job done.

There is! It’s called a Moffett Forklift. Read on to learn about 13 advantages to having one:

1. Versatility and Flexibility

A Moffett forklift can be used for a variety of different functions. For example, they can move heavy items from a van to a home or vis versa. They can even move through a warehouse or bring items from storage to an event.

The toughest situations could use a Moffett forklift. This machine is dependable for different scenarios and everyday actions.

2. Lightweight

The Moffett forklift weight may be the first thing you think of. A big machine has to be extremely heavy. This is not the case with the Moffett brand.

These forklifts have a lightweight design that makes them so desirable for those looking for a Moffett forklift for sale. They are smaller than the average forklift, but can still run at full capacity. These machines can lift and offload sizes of up to two and a half tonnes.

The small figure of this machine makes this fact very impressive. It also makes it easier to transport when necessary. They can maneuver their way into places that a regular forklift may not get into.

3. Suitable for Any Surface

Forklifts are known to struggle on surfaces that are uneven or just unusual. In contrast, a Moffett forklift can work well even under these different conditions.

This brings a lot more value to the Moffett. Using a forklift can be impossible in some areas unless you have a Moffett specifically. The restricted areas are no longer restricted when you own this forklift.

A traditional forklift could try to work on uneven ground but would risk a lot of dangers. It is ineffective to use a forklift on uneven areas unless you have a Moffett. The reduction of danger and ineffectiveness is just one reason to get a Moffett forklift.

4. Trailer Mounted

If you have something to transport, you can enjoy the ease of doing it with the mounted on a trailer that Moffett provides. When the trailer is mounted, the overhang is at a minimum. This ensures that the equipment meets any trailer regulations.

If the trailer is detached, Moffett’s are fully transportable around almost all sites. Their size and versatility make them the best lifting option to choose from.

5. 4-Way Steering

A Moffett has 4-way steering allowing for effortless maneuverability. Every wheel on these forklifts can be rotated.

Independently, they can be rotated to handle wide loads or to try to get through smaller pathways. This means you can even get through the most confined spaces with little to no trouble at all.

6. Easy on the Environment

It’s 2020, we are trying to keep the Earth in the best shape possible. You can do your part in this with the Moffett E-series. This specific type of Moffett forklift is powered by a lithium-ion battery.

This means it is emission-free without a doubt. The environmental impact will be significantly reduced because of this.

7. Silent Operation

Another benefit of the E-series is that it runs a silent operation. Thanks to the Quiet Mark by the Noise Abatement Society, the E-series is known for how amazing the quiet technology runs. The surrounding environment will barely hear a thing because the noise levels are significantly reduced.

This makes any deliveries you make with the Moffett forklift less annoying. Early morning and late-night drop-offs can be the worst times for a noisy forklift. Luckily, the E-series gives you nothing to work about.

8. Easy to Charge

The E-series is also made with an onboard charger that makes for easy charging when necessary. You can charge wherever and whenever. You will have complete flexibility when it comes to the charging location and even the specific carrier vehicle.

Most Moffett forklifts can be fully charged in a little as three hours. This time frame will depend on the battery size.

9. Easy Service

If you ever have trouble with your Moffett forklift, you can enjoy easy service. There is a reduced maintenance time compared to a traditional forklift.

If you need parts or maintenance for your Moffett forklift, you can search, “Moffett forklift parts near me.”

10. Saves You Money

If you need a Moffett forklift for a warehouse or construction site, you can save on labor by owning one. If you don’t have one of these, you have to hire labor and the cost will be more in the end.

Investing in a Moffett forklift will be worth it in the long run. Never worry about waste labor again!

11. Speeds Process Up

Every second on the job costs or makes money. Using time wisely will benefit production as a whole.

Manually unloading and loading items can be exhausting and time-consuming. A Moffett will reduce this time and speed up the entire process in turn.

12. Safety First

Manually unloading and loading can be dangerous, especially if it is heavy items. If your site does not have a forklift, the staff is more at risk of strain and other injuries. These lightweight forklifts will reduce strains from loading and unloading, but also mounting the forklift will be easy because it is lightweight.

13. Super-Reach

A combination of pantograph and telescopic forks allows you to unload and load from far sides of a truck or trailer. Even the toughest parts to reach will be easier to handle with this forklift.

Buy a Moffett Forklift Today!

There’s no good reason to not have a Moffett forklift for your work. They are versatile, lightweight, and safer than your average forklift. They will also work on any surface, be easy on the environment, and can speed up any process that required manual labor before.

Well, what are you waiting for? Contact us to buy a Moffett forklift or for more information today!

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!