If your business has been expanding of late, you might find that forklift hire is something you desperately need. These machines are used in many different industries and in many different capacities, so it stands to reason that they come in a variety of shapes and sizes. This is why it is essential that you’ve made the right choice from the very beginning. Here are 5 of the most important things to consider when choosing a forklift for your business:

1. What is its purpose?
   The very first thing you should consider is what you actually need the forklift for. Do you run a warehouse where the machine will be used to stack and unstuck shelves? Do you run a transport company where the machine will be used to load and unload trucks? There are a variety of models available, each suiting a different purpose. Some, for example, are unable to be used indoors, whilst others are.
2. What is your budget?
   The next thing you should consider is how much you can realistically afford to spend on forklift hire. Agreements can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand, depending on the company you’ve decided to hire from, the age of the machine and how long you require it. It’s always a good idea to obtain a handful of quotes, as this will give you an idea of what other companies are asking.
3. What about safety?
   The third thing you should consider is the safety of the forklift, as the last thing you want is for one of your workers to be involved in a serious accident. Find out when the machine was last inspected or repaired; if it’s been a while, be aware that it’s probably due for attention in the very near future. You should also consider whether your workers are properly trained, otherwise you might also need to hire a driver.
4. What is the weight?
   The next thing you should consider is how much weight your forklift hire will be expected to move. Each machine will only be able to lift so much before there is too much strain on them, so ensure that you’ve chosen one whose capabilities match your needs. The type of tyres (solid or pneumatic) and fuel source (diesel, gas or battery electric) can also play a role in the machine’s overall lifting ability.
5. What are the terms?
   The final thing you should consider is the hire company’s terms and conditions. Are you covered by their insurance or will you need your own? What happens in the forklift breaks down or becomes damaged? Will they get the machine to your workplace or will you need to arrange transport? Are there any late fees? Ensure that you’ve looked for any loopholes that could cause problems down the track.

If you’ve found yourself in need of forklift hire, it’s important that you have considered each of the points outlined above. This will ensure that you’ve made the correct choice from the very beginning and that the machine will serve you well from start to finish. If you’re still having problems choosing a suitable forklift, ensure that you speak with your chosen hire company – they will be able to offer advice and suggestions based on your needs.

Liftech Handling & Access is offering all type of forklifts and access equipments since 1990 and presently based in central Dandenong