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Choosing the Right Forklift for Your Warehouse: A Guide from RACKsteel Material Handling

Dec 13 2023

Identify the right forklift for your operations

The backbone of any modern warehouse—especially those with selective pallet racking and intricate storage systems—is the humble forklift. Choosing the right forklift can have a significant impact on operating time, productivity, safety, and cost-effectiveness. With constant advancements in forklift technology and ergonomic designs, selecting the right equipment has become as critical as setting up the ideal pallet racking system.

At RACKsteel Material Handling, we’ve mastered the art of integrating industry-leading storage solutions with the right industrial applications. As an authorized dealer for HELI and HUBTEX forklifts, we offer expert guidance to help you select the best forklift for your needs. Here’s how to navigate this decision to ensure a seamless operation for your warehouse.

1. Assess Your Facility Layout
Your warehouse’s layout plays a pivotal role in determining the right forklift. Consider factors like:
  • The width of your access aisles.
  • The height of your selective pallet racking.
  • Doorway clearances and turning radii.
Some advanced pallet racking systems, such as those designed for narrow aisles, may require specialized forklifts like HUBTEX multidirectional sideloaders or reach trucks. Consulting with RACKsteel ensures your forklift choice aligns perfectly with your racking setup.
2. Identify the Tasks

Every warehouse has unique operational needs. Is your focus on stacking pallets high or moving materials horizontally? Whether navigating tight aisles or reaching top-tier racks, the forklift you choose should match the primary tasks of your warehouse. HELI forklifts, known for their reliability and versatility, are an excellent option for diverse material handling tasks.

3. Determine Load Capacity
It’s not just about lifting—it’s about lifting safely and efficiently. Consider:
  • The heaviest items your forklift will handle.
  • The impact of attachments on load capacity.

At RACKsteel Material Handling, we’ll help you evaluate the load capacities of various forklift models to ensure safety and productivity.

4. Understand Lift Height Requirements
Forklift lift heights typically range from 8 to 20 feet, with specialized models exceeding this range. Take into account:
  • Your usual lift height.
  • Maximum reach needs.
  • Ceiling height and other structural constraints.

Our experts can recommend forklifts, such as HELI counterbalance forklifts or HUBTEX reach trucks, tailored to your warehouse’s height requirements.

5. Consider the Power Source
Forklifts come with two main power options: internal combustion (IC) and electric.
  • IC forklifts (diesel, propane, or gasoline-powered) offer high load capacities and quick refueling but may require ventilation for indoor use.
  • Electric forklifts, with zero emissions and quiet operation, are ideal for indoor spaces and boast lower long-term costs.

We’ll guide you in choosing the best power source for your operations, ensuring it aligns with your environmental and operational goals.

6. Choose the Correct Forklift Type
Warehouses have diverse needs, requiring different forklift types:
  • Counterbalance forklifts for general tasks.
  • Reach trucks for accessing high racks.
  • Order pickers for selective pallet racking systems.
  • HUBTEX sideloaders for handling long or bulky materials.

With a vast range of HELI and HUBTEX forklifts, RACKsteel offers equipment tailored to your specific application.

7. Evaluate Tire Options
The right tires enhance forklift efficiency and safety:
  • Pneumatic tires: Ideal for outdoor use on rugged terrains.
  • Solid tires: Non-puncturable and great for harsh environments.
  • Cushion tires: Low-profile, perfect for indoor settings with smooth surfaces.

We’ll help you select tires suited to your warehouse conditions, ensuring safe and efficient operation.

8. Test Before You Buy

The true test of a forklift comes in its application. Conduct a test run in conditions that mimic your warehouse’s daily operations to ensure compatibility with your racking system and workflow.

Why Choose RACKsteel Material Handling for Your Forklift Needs?
At RACKsteel Material Handling, we specialize in turnkey operational equipment solutions, offering expert advice and high-quality products like HELI forklifts, HUBTEX multidirectional sideloaders, and selective pallet racking systems. Here’s why we’re the trusted partner for your material handling needs:
  • Comprehensive Expertise: We integrate storage solutions with the perfect forklift for your setup.
  • Top-Tier Brands: As authorized dealers for HELI and HUBTEX, we provide reliable and innovative equipment.
  • Turnkey Quotations: From racking systems to forklifts, we deliver seamless, end-to-end solutions for your warehouse.

Ready to Transform Your Warehouse?
Partner with RACKsteel Material Handling for expert guidance on selecting the right forklift for your operations. Contact us today at 1-866-599-8531 or visit us in person at 5596 268th St Langley, B.C. for a customized quotation and discover how we can help optimize your warehouse with the best equipment and racking solutions on the market.

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CONTACT US

Our customer service philosophy is simple: We will make sure every call and email is prioritized, and that your warehouse gets operating faster.