Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a New Forklift

Purchasing a new forklift is a significant investment, yet many companies overlook essential factors that can impact the long-term value and functionality of their choice.

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From failing to assess specific operational needs to underestimating ongoing costs, these common missteps can lead to wasted resources and hinder productivity. Safety features, dealer reputation, and understanding the total cost of ownership play key roles in making a well-informed decision.

By recognizing and avoiding these frequent mistakes, companies can choose a forklift that not only meets their immediate requirements but also supports a safer, more efficient workspace, ultimately providing a better return on their investment.

Not Addressing Your Needs

One of the first missteps companies make when purchasing a new forklift is failing to clearly define their operational needs. Too often, businesses buy a forklift based on general specifications or price without fully considering the specifics of their workplace environment. This approach can lead to issues, especially if the forklift’s load capacity doesn’t match the typical weight it will be handling, or if the forklift isn’t suited to the type of terrain that it will navigate daily.

Evaluating factors such as warehouse size, ceiling height, and aisle width can help companies select a forklift that aligns with their space limitations. A forklift that’s too large for narrow aisles or limited overhead space can create bottlenecks in workflow and even pose safety risks.

Another critical factor to consider is whether an electric or gas-powered forklift better suits the operation. Electric forklifts require access to charging stations, which means planning for both charging times and any specific electrical requirements. Gas or propane powered forklifts, on the other hand, need a reliable fuel source on-site, so companies should ensure they have the equipment and materials to power them efficiently. Addressing these needs up front allows businesses to make a well-informed choice, leading to smoother, more productive operations in the long run.

Overlooking Total Cost of New Forklift Ownership

Another common mistake companies make when purchasing a forklift is overlooking the total cost of ownership. Many focus on the initial purchase price alone, neglecting to account for long-term expenses like maintenance, fuel, parts, and operator training. While a lower-priced forklift might seem like a smart choice upfront, it could lead to higher costs down the line if it requires frequent repairs or has higher fuel consumption.

Maintenance is a significant factor in a forklift’s overall cost. Parts and labor for repairs can add up quickly, particularly if the forklift isn’t suited for the workload that it faces daily. Additionally, ongoing expenses, such as fuel or electricity for charging, also affect the total cost. Companies should weigh these factors carefully when choosing between forklifts to avoid unexpected budget strains.

For businesses hesitant about long-term financial commitments, the issue of renting vs. buying a forklift should be considered. Renting provides the flexibility to adjust equipment based on shifting needs and eliminates the responsibility of long-term maintenance. However, rental costs can accumulate over time, so companies should evaluate their usage needs carefully. By considering these financial aspects upfront, businesses can make informed decisions that balance immediate costs with long-term expenses, avoiding costly surprises down the road.

Neglecting Safety Features

A third mistake companies often make when buying a forklift is neglecting to prioritize safety features. Forklifts come with various safety mechanisms that help prevent accidents, yet these features are sometimes overlooked in the rush to purchase equipment. Features such as anti-tip systems and load indicators are essential to maintaining stability and preventing accidents, especially when handling heavy or unbalanced loads. Without these safeguards, forklift operators and other employees are at greater risk, and the potential for costly downtime due to accidents increases.

Operator visibility is another key consideration. Many forklifts now include visibility enhancements that allow forklift operators to see better in crowded or narrow spaces. Poor visibility can lead to collisions or handling errors, so choosing a forklift with optimized sight lines helps keep the workspace safer.

Ergonomic design is equally important. Forklifts that reduce operator fatigue through features such as adjustable seats, intuitive controls, and vibration-dampening technology can improve productivity and reduce the risk of repetitive strain injuries. Fatigued forklift operators are more likely to make mistakes, so choosing a forklift with comfort features can benefit both the operator and the company.

By prioritizing these safety and ergonomic features, companies can foster a safer environment while also promoting productivity, reducing accidents, and supporting operator well-being over the long term.

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Buying From the Right Forklift Company

Finally, one of the most unfortunate mistakes businesses can make when purchasing a forklift is buying from a less-than-reputable dealer. Choosing an unreliable dealer can lead to problems such as receiving a poorly maintained forklift or lacking essential after-sale support. This is especially risky when warranty details are overlooked, forcing companies to pay out-of-pocket for repairs soon after their purchase.

When buying new forklifts, it's important to select a dealer known for reliability, customer service, and a comprehensive warranty package. Reputable dealers stand by their products and provide prompt, professional support to address any issues that arise. This level of service helps maintain the forklift’s performance and extends its lifespan, which ultimately protects the investment.

Top brands like Hyundai and Komatsu are well-regarded in the forklift industry for quality and durability, making them strong choices when considering a new forklift. Working with an authorized dealer such as Carolina Industrial Trucks for these brands often means access to genuine parts, trained technicians, and reliable warranties that cover a range of potential issues.

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Avoiding these common mistakes can save time, money, and stress when buying a new forklift. By carefully evaluating your operational needs, understanding long-term costs, prioritizing safety, and choosing a reliable dealer, your business can make a solid, lasting investment.

Remember, a quality forklift doesn’t just improve productivity, it also supports a safer work environment and enhances overall efficiency. If you’re in the Carolinas and need a dependable forklift, reach out to CITrucks today. Our team is ready to help you find the right equipment for your needs with trusted brands like Hyundai and Komatsu.

Forklift Pricing 101: What You Should Know

The material handling equipment your company requires involves a large investment, so it’s understandable that you’d want to find the best value when purchasing forklifts. What are the forklift price factors you need to consider? Here, we offer some information to help you understand forklift pricing.

When you’re considering forklift prices, understand that the upfront cost is not the only expense. Consider the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), or how much you’re going to need to spend on operating costs and maintenance. If you buy an inexpensive forklift, it can end up costing more in the long run than a higher-quality model.

The manufacturer can factor heavily into the price. Some manufacturers produce higher quality vehicles and have a better reputation for reliability than less-cost value brands.

The size of the truck has a major impact on forklift value. Bigger trucks require more materials in the manufacturing process, so they are more expensive than smaller trucks. Forklift capacity and mast size play into the cost, as well.

You’re going to pay more for extra features. If you want a full cab with heat, need extra safety features, want to paint your fleet a brand color, or you need features specific for your application, additional charges will apply.

The fuel type, tire type and hydraulic setup all make a difference. Electric forklifts typically cost more than forklifts that use liquefied propane gas or diesel fuel because you’re paying for your fuel up front by buying the battery with the forklift. The “TCO” is typically less for electric forklifts due to fewer moving parts. Diesel trucks cost more than LPG trucks, and LPG fuel costs less than diesel fuel. Cushion tires cost less than pneumatic tires but have a limited range of applications. Hydraulics have a standard set up and you’ll pay more for anything beyond that standard.

New and used forklift prices vary. When you choose to buy a pre-owned forklift, you may not always get a warranty, which could impact your budget down the line if your equipment needs to be repaired. It can be difficult to accurately assess the value of a used forklift, and there’s no protection if you make a poor decision. Buying a used forklift from a dealer is a much safer option because the dealership will typically put it through an extensive inspection and may offer you a warranty.

Consider buying the extended warranty. These raise your upfront cost but can quickly save you money if a part on your forklift malfunctions.

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