Are you in charge of a warehouse and wondering whether investing in heavy machinery like a large forklift is worth it? If yes, you are in the right place. A large forklift has numerous advantages, and it will make your warehouse operations smoother and quicker. Think of a forklift as a smart machine that can do all the heavy lifting for you in seconds, efficiently, and cost-effectively.

Types of Forklifts

Depending on the needs of your warehouse and operational workflows, you must choose which type of forklift will be best for you. To help you make an informed decision, let’s look at the main types of forklifts.

Electric Forklifts

As the name suggests, electric forklifts are powered by electricity. Like its counterparts, it is suitable for transporting heavy material in the warehouse. Electric forklifts are deemed more comfortable to maneuver because their regenerative braking system ensures smooth acceleration and deceleration.

Additionally, electric forklifts are environment-friendly because of their zero emissions and quieter operations. Another reason why electric forklifts are doing well in the market is because of greater awareness of staff welfare.

A forklift lifting two items.
A forklift lifting two items.

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Manual Forklifts

Manual forklifts can lift lighter weights than electric ones because they are manually powered through pallet jacks. The manual lifting mechanism works via a hydraulic pump that moves the fork in the front and rear of the machine. The steering of the manual forklift is through two large steering wheels at the back and two small steering wheels at the front.

Internal Combustion Forklifts

Internal combustion forklifts are powered by an internal combustion engine that runs on petrol, diesel, propane, or compressed natural gas. As a result, they are not environmentally friendly compared to electric and manual forklifts. However, when it comes to performance, they can lift heavy weights quickly and easily. Maneuvering them is equally easy in all types of warehouses.

Rough Terrain Forklifts

Rough terrain forklifts are designed to do the heavy lifting in extremely rugged and challenging terrains like agricultural fields, lumber yards, etc. They are usually powered by an internal combustion engine running on petrol, diesel, or liquid propane gas.

It is advised that rough terrain forklifts should only be operated by trained operators to ensure safety and convenience. A rough terrain forklift can lift heavier loads than other forklifts.

A forklift operated by a single person lifting a large container.
A forklift operated by a single person lifting a large container.

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Benefits of Large Forklift in Warehouse Operations

Investing in a forklift might seem a heavy investment if you are a new or mid-sized business. However, forklifts go a long way in streamlining your warehouse operations by maximizing space and minimizing manual labor. Mentioned here are additional benefits of utilizing a large forklift in your warehouse:

Enhanced Productivity

A large forklift can lift a huge amount of weight in one trip, saving you from the effort of making multiple trips. Consequently, it will not only allow you to save time but increase the overall efficiency and productivity of your workflow. If you have invested in a large forklift, you will not have to buy any other machinery for load lifting and transporting.

Advanced Manoeuvrability

Forklifts are very flexible and easily maneuverable machinery which can be easily operated in confined spaces and narrow aisles. The advanced control mechanisms like compact turning circles, steering wheels, etc., enhance its capabilities to lift heavy weights with relative ease in all places and heights.

Extendible Operational Abilities

Large forklifts come with numerous customizable features that enhance their operational abilities. For instance, additional accessories like rotator clamps, fork positioners, side-shifters, etc., can be added in the front and rear to lift odd-shaped objects or extremely heavy weights. The extendible accessories save you from the hassle of investing in other specialized machinery.

Cost Effectiveness

Investing in a large forklift might seem to be a heavy financial liability initially, but it will reap great cost-effective benefits in the long run. It will save you from hiring manual labor and investing in additional equipment and machinery. 

Access to Higher Racks

If you run your operations in a small warehouse, a forklift will allow you to double your storage and optimize your inventory management. The forklift can reach higher racks easily, allowing you to stack items on top of each other. You will not have to worry about fast-moving inventory cycles by utilizing space vertically.

Noise Reduction

Compared to other heavy machinery, forklifts do not generate as much noise. Employees can work easily in a small warehouse where a forklift is operated. Employees can easily focus on their work and enhance productivity in a noise-free environment. Additionally, forklifts are also environment-friendly options as they reduce noise pollution. Electric forklifts are highly appreciated for their environmental sustainability.

Safety and Convenience of The Operator

You do not need more than one person to operate the forklift. A properly trained and skilled operator can drive the forklift alone without help. The advanced safety and comfort features for the operator, like front & rear cameras, sensors, alarms, adjustable seats, intuitive controls, etc., eliminate the risk of any unwanted mishaps. 

In Conclusion

Reach out to us at Large Lift Trucks if you want to leverage the power of large forklifts to streamline warehouse operations. We have been in the lift truck industry for over 40 years and can fulfill all your forklift needs. You do not necessarily have to buy new forklifts with us; you can get great deals on Used Forklifts or Rent Our Forklifts.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment and get your hands on a forklift as soon as possible.

Common Questions About Large Forklifts in Warehouse Operations

  1. What are some attachments that can be added to a forklift? 

Some attachments which can be added to a forklift are side shifters, rotators, paper roll clampers, fork extensions, and fork positioners.

  1. What is the maximum load capacity of a forklift?

The maximum load capacity of a forklift depends on the type of forklift. For instance, an electric forklift can lift much more than a manual forklift. However, on average, a large forklift can lift 70,000 + lbs.

  1. What are some common forklift hazards?

Some common forklift hazards are rash operation, overloading, lack of maintenance, floor conditions, overhead obstructions, etc. However, all these hazards can be easily ignored with attention and operational care.

  1. What is the maximum speed limit of a forklift?

The maximum speed limit depends on the type of forklift. However, on average, its speed limit is 10 miles/hour.

  1. What is the maximum height a forklift can reach? 

A forklift can reach an approximate height of 15 feet/189 inches.