Forklift Buying Guide
Forklifts allow the operator to easily move various kinds of heavy cargo from place to place, and their simple yet effective designs have led to them being adopted by a variety of industries. However, there are many different types of forklifts available on the market. How do you know which model is right for you? This guide from Frontier Forklifts & Equipment has the answers.
1. Start with a Budget
Start by creating a budget. You want to establish early on exactly how much you are willing to pay for a forklift so that you do not accidentally spend too much. Creating a budget also makes it easier to keep track of extra expenses like maintenance, operations costs, and licensing fees.
2. Understand the Pricing Factors
A forklift’s asking price is based on several factors, including overall specifications, age, service history, and any special features. For instance, industrial forklifts tend to be bigger and more powerful, so they’re more expensive. Newer models that integrate the very latest technology also tend to be a bit pricier. Once you understand how various factors can affect a forklift’s asking price, it’ll be easier to shop around and find a model that works for you.
3. Understand the Types of Forklifts
All forklifts share the same basic design, but there are a few subtypes designed to better fulfill certain roles. For example, warehouse forklifts are the “standard” model, well suited to indoor usage. For work in more narrow aisles and tighter spaces, a side loader is your best bet. For heavy-duty jobs, an industrial forklift model is usually the right call. Pallet jacks can’t lift things as high as other forklifts can, but they’re very easy to use and extremely compact. If you need a forklift that can reach much higher up, an order picker is probably your best option.
Another thing to consider is how your forklift will be powered. Your options include gasoline, propane, diesel, and electric-powered forklifts. Some types may be better suited to certain situations than others, such as electric forklifts being better for unventilated areas since they don’t give off emissions. Different fuel sources also mean different maintenance needs, so do some research before you buy.
4. Look for Warranties
One more factor to consider when purchasing a forklift is warranty protection. Whether provided by the manufacturer, dealership, or both, warranties can help you pay to fix unexpected mechanical issues when they strike. If you want more information about what kind of warranty protection is available for a particular model, talk to a member of our friendly sales staff.
Shop forklifts at Frontier Forklifts & Equipment. Our dealership in Pearland, Texas offers convenient access to communities like Houston and Galveston, Texas. We also offer financing, rentals, servicing, and parts ordering.