Detailed guide to getting forklifts near your location
Locating forklifts will be an easy job with the use of simple tools like Google Maps. This application with a good Internet connection can be used from any mobile device.
By following these specific steps, you will achieve the objective of finding the forklifts closest to you.
- The first step is to open the Google Maps application on your mobile device or computer.
- Next, in the search engine write the word “forklift” and wait for the results.
A detailed map will appear on the screen with the location marked with red icons of the forklifts business closest to you.
Another option to use is to combine “forklifts” with the name of the city in which you live, to reduce and facilitate the search. One of the advantages that this tool offers is the ability to indicate the time and distance from one place to another, giving a viable route.
What type of forklift do I need?
Due to its great demand, forklifts are divided into seven classes to be classified according to their use, operation and the load to be transported. It will be a matter of choosing the one that best suits your needs.
- Class I: Electric forklift; This type has a battery and is ideal for use in closed spaces, since it does not emit pollution gasses, thus taking care of the environment.
- Class II: Electric stackers: they have electrical equipment, small in size, excellent for narrow spaces, and ideal for having greater control when handling.
- Class III: Manual; They are executed manually; some are used to transport merchandise and others to lift loads from the floor.
- Class IV and V: Internal combustion; They have a combustion engine, so their use is specialized for outdoors. Type IVs use solid tires to avoid punctures., while type V inflatable and reinforced tires for loading and unloading.
- Class VI and VII: All terrain; Designed especially for difficult terrain, used mainly at the agricultural level as it has a better grip on any surface.
Choosing the right forklift will guarantee the success of your work. For this reason, it is necessary to take into account: the type of cargo that will be transported, the size of the warehouse or space where the merchandise will be located, and the frequency with which the cargo transits.
Forklift maintenance
Keep in mind that for good use of a forklift, the parts of the vehicle and their respective functionality must be known for correct maintenance.
Components of a forklift
Having a guide on hand about the parts that make up a forklift is very helpful when making repairs. Therefore, knowing the following components is important when locating this machinery near our homes.
- Mast: it is the piece that lifts, lowers, and places the load from its place. It is responsible for carrying out the work for which the forklift was created, having much of the leading role.
- Forks: are the pieces that protrude from the bottom of the vehicle, whose function is to lift the load from below, supporting the weight while the mast raises it.
- Steering system: allows the operator to control the direction in which the forklift needs to be directed.
- Propulsion System: Its function is to produce the adequate power necessary for the machinery to be in constant movement. In addition, you can regulate the speed to have the cargo in the best conditions.
- Chassis: being the structural basis of the machinery, this in turn consists of four parts: the counterweight, the cabin, the engine compartment, and the wheels and tires. All this provides stability and resistance.
Accessories and spare parts for a forklift
Every machine deserves care suitable for your perseverance; On the market, there is a wide variety of accessories and spare parts available to achieve this goal. Among them are:
- Load Platforms: these are specific for transporting loads that are not large or stable enough to be able to use only the forks.
- Fork Extensions: used to handle very large loads or a large number of pallets.
- Wheels and tires: they are essential in any vehicle, providing the necessary traction to generate movement in the machinery, without wearing out the internal mechanism.
Tips for good forklift maintenance
Since this machinery works with heavy loads, it implies common wear and tear in its systems and components, both electrical and mechanical. For this reason, adequate maintenance must be carried out regularly.
- Constant replacement of oil and filters.
- Periodic check of brake, tire, and air pressure adjustment.
- Checking lights and signals.
- Supervision of electrical systems.
Likewise, certain repairs must be carried out with priority, to reduce the downtime of the machine:
- Repair of existing leaks.
- Renewal of damaged and rusty parts.
- Adjustment of steering and propulsion systems.
It is important to take notes of the dates on which the inspections and forklift maintenance. This is to have a better idea of when the following inspections should be carried out and to better understand the condition of the vehicle.
Requirements to work as a forklift operator
It is well known that for every job it is necessary to choose the right machine to ensure successful work. One of the most coveted jobs is that of machine operator, and having excellent professionals trained in the area is essential for an effective and safe project.
Being a machinery operator opens the doors to working in different sectors of the industry, given the great diversity of types of equipment, while also offering durability in a constantly growing market. Every professional must have prior knowledge in the area, as well as good use of communication, physical resistance, and certification as an operator.
How to get a certificate to drive forklifts?
Currently, every industry and warehouse requires the use of a forklift to achieve adequate work, however; Improper handling of machinery could cause accidents.
Certification commits forklift operators to be fully trained in the operation of the machinery, as well as being aware of the associated dangers and risks. Operators must have certification.
Which are the forklift brands on the market?
Demand for forklifts has created competition, so currently, there is a wide variety of brands that are responsible for the manufacture of this machinery; as well as the distribution of spare parts and accessories.
Among the different brands we find:
- CLARK Equipment Company: with more than 100 years in the industry, it is one of the most renowned brands for its durability, being the first choice for many contractors and operators.
- Yale: its first forklift was manufactured in 1920 and since then it has expanded throughout the world, staying updated with new technologies, and offering quality to all consumers.
- Toyota Material Handling: despite being recognized for its cars; The Japanese brand has a wide range of forklifts with both internal combustion and electric mechanisms.
- Hyster: another recognized brand in the industry, specializing in high-intensity application forklifts, providing resistance to heavy loads or jobs with a lot of impact.
- Caterpillar: distinguished company in heavy machinery, offers clothing of excellent quality and capacity in all areas, being a good option for any type of need thanks to its variety.
Each company offers quality services and high-scale productivity, however, the decision when choosing the model will fall on the specific application requirements.
How much does it cost to rent a forklift per day?
The rental of a forklift will depend on the requirements being sought; It must be taken into account that there is no exact price. Due to this, it is necessary to analyze the requirements of the work environment in which the machinery will be used.
Take into account, for example, the type of engine used, whether combustion-based or electric, in what sector of the industry it will be used, the company to which it will be rented, and the days for which it will be used. For example:
- An internal combustion forklift can range from $330 to $850 per day; $660 to $1850 per week; $1100 to $5400 per month.
- An electric forklift costs slightly cheaper: $300 to $400 per day; $650 to $900 per week; $1500 to $2200 per month.
It should be noted that these prices will vary depending on the weight they have to lift, so it is important to know how much power is going to be used. In addition, knowing the capacity that the forklift supports becomes vitally important when looking for quotes.
There are many benefits to renting a forklift:
- You save money; by focusing on the expansion of your business.
- Long-term commitment does not exist.
- Fewer inconveniences: you will acquire machines in good condition and by using it for a short time you will avoid its deterioration and therefore, you will not spend on repairs.
These are estimated prices and may vary.
Getting a new or an used forklift? With what kind of fuel?
With the help of this detailed guide, you will be able to find companies and stores where forklifts can be located more easily, at the same time being able to choose the machinery that suits your needs. Below we leave a list with links to facilitate its location:
Forklift operator license school and courses
People who want to dedicate themselves to this globally sought-after job must acquire a license legally as a forklift operator. If you are interested in obtaining the certificate to be a forklift operator, here are options for specialized sites:
Forklift operator jobs
Nowadays, working as a heavy machinery operator is highly requested, whether as a freelancer or working for a specific company. Below you will find a series of links related to the search for this job.
Forklift accessories and repairing services
Timely and effective preventive maintenance will be the fundamental key to good work development, thus guaranteeing the reduction of untimely failures, accidents, and time savings. In the links we leave at the bottom, you can research accessories and repair services for forklifts:
Most requested forklift market brands
There is a wide variety of brands recognized worldwide, depending on what your work requires, we leave a list where you can easily choose the brand you want.
Forklifts rentals & lease
The process of renting a forklift has many advantages, such as long-term savings and a greater focus on getting your job done. Here we leave a series of links so you can locate forklift rentals closest to you: