How to Avoid Costly Mistakes When Renting a Forklift for Material Handling
Forklift hire allows you to complete material handling jobs without spending money on new equipment. This service is useful to businesses that only need lifting equipment at specific times of the year, such as during peak seasons. If your lifting equipment has broken down or is undergoing servicing, a rental forklift can act as a temporary replacement. When renting a forklift, consider these tips to avoid mistakes that could affect operations in your facility.
Determine your lifting needs
Forklifts come in various sizes and load capacities, and it is advisable to assess your lifting needs before hiring the equipment. Failure to do so can slow down operations because you will be forced to adhere to the equipment's load limits. Therefore, if you want to move materials or pallets, you will only be able to stack as many items as the forklift can handle. You can speed up operations by choosing a forklift size and load capacity that meet your lifting needs.
Choose the right fuel
One potential mistake you might make when renting a forklift is disregarding the fuel type. There are electric, petrol and diesel forklifts on the market. Electric forklifts have great indoor manoeuvrability, and they don't emit any fumes. They are great for indoor lifting and moving jobs.
Petrol and diesel forklifts emit fumes and carbon monoxide gas; thus, you shouldn't use them indoors. They are only suitable for outdoor use. However, they are incredibly robust, making them ideal for heavy-duty lifting jobs. When you rent the equipment, choose the fuel type that is affordable and readily available on the job site to avoid huge operational costs.
Inspect the major moving parts
Most rental forklifts are used, so there is a risk you may rent equipment with mechanical issues. Therefore, before choosing the right forklift, inspect its moving parts to ascertain they are in good physical and mechanical condition. The components to pay attention to are:
- Forks
- Mast rails
- Lift chains
- Hydraulic system
- Braking system
- Engine
Look out for huge dents and excessive wear and tear on the parts. Check the forklift for engine oil leaks and hydraulic oil leaks. Even though most rental companies cover repair costs, you shouldn't rent a forklift without inspecting it first. If the equipment breaks down, it will slow down operations in your facility.
Carry out a test drive
A quick road test of your rental forklift can allow you to experience the equipment's performance before committing to a rental contract. It can also unearth underlying issues and save you from renting faulty equipment. Therefore, carry out a test drive and note the forklift positioning, engine performance, handling and comfort. Also, look out for unusual noises during movement.
Observe these tips to avoid costly mistakes when renting a forklift for your business. Contact a local forklift service to learn more.