A forklift is a valuable piece of equipment for your home. If you live on a large piece of land, you can use the forklift to easily move large loads of mulch, top soil, or compost. If you live in a fixer upper, you can use a forklift to move construction supplies like lumber, bricks, and tile. You can even use the forklift for moving heavy furniture and appliances like your washer and dryer.
A forklift represents a significant investment, so you don’t want to buy just any forklift. You need to research your options carefully and find the model that will best serve your needs. Here are a few things you should look for when shopping for a forklift:
Load Capacity
Not all forklifts are created equal, and they can’t all handle anything you want them to carry. Every forklift is ratted for capacity. Some can handle basic loads for gardening and yard work, while others can handle the full load you want to move for any job.
When you are shopping, look for the capacity rating before you purchase.
Load Direction
When most people think of forklifts, they think of models that load from the front. However, there are other options that include side-lifting and flexible forklifts. Front loaders may be all you need for basic jobs. But if you need to do work in smaller spaces or older homes, you’ll want to consider a flexible or side-loading forklift. Front loaders need a lot of room to turn around, and you may not have that kind of space in an older home.
Power Source
Forklifts can have an electric or gas power source. Choosing electric power will save you money since the forklift will plug right into the wall. However, the power cord will limit the forklift’s range. Electric forklifts may also not have the power or capacity that you need for larger jobs. Gas forklifts, on the other hand, can be expensive to keep fueled.
Ease of Use
Unless you have worked on a construction site or in a warehouse, you probably don’t have a lot of experience with a forklift. You need a model that will be easy to operate. Check out the forklift in person if you can, but if you can’t, read about the features and read reviews from past owners. You’ll get a good idea of what to expect.
Whether you are looking to buy a forklift in Salt Lake City or rent lift trucks in Denver, you can use these tips to help you find just the right model to meet your needs. With the right forklift, you’ll be able to do any job faster and safer, whether you are performing routine yard work or are overseeing major renovations. If you don’t have the budget to buy a forklift, you can rent one to get the performance you need. Shop around to get the best rates on your purchase or rental.
