Category Counter Balance

We all know the huge benefits of using forklifts in and around the warehouse, including when unloading goods from trucks. But if you’re not paying attention or being diligent, mistakes can happen that are both costly and dangerous. Here’s what to look out for when unloading a truck using your forklift.

Trailer curtain. Before you start make sure the curtain has been pulled back in full to ensure proper access to all pallets.

Straps. Make sure all ratchet straps and harnesses have been fully removed before you attempt to move anything, making sure pallets can move freely.

Back to front. Generally speaking, goods should be unloaded from the back of the truck to the front, unless you are directed otherwise. Tall or double stacked pallets are usually stored at the front where they can be supported by the truck body.

Watch the roof! And the truck sides of course. When you’re unloading tall or wide products knocking into the side of the truck can cause product damage.

For more information about our forklift training services, contact us on 03333 442949 or [email protected]

A daily forklift check is all well and good, but if your check isn’t up to scratch it’s not worth doing. Here’s our top tips for making sure your forklift check counts.

Make a physical checklist. Possibly an obvious point, but making a physical copy of your checklist is important for making sure every part of the check is remembered and conducted daily. Consider the process for your checklist – will it required sign off and recording?

Make sure your daily checklist properly prioritises each item for checking. Fuel checks and safety checks should be absolutely at the top of the list for each daily check.

Plan in spot checks alongside your regular daily checks. There will be checks that are required every now and then, but not daily – don’t forget spot checking alongside your regular daily checks.

Communicate around daily checks. Make sure everyone is aware of daily checks procedures and develop a culture of two way feedback when it comes to daily maintenance checks.

For more information about our forklift training services, contact us on 03333 442949 or [email protected]

Forklifts are a vital part of any busy warehouse – but badly loaded they can be a huge hazard. No one wants to risk the accidents that can be caused by a tipped forklift – here’s our top tips for keeping your forklift balance in check.

Consider the environment. Check the surfaces you’ll be driving on are in good shape and take a note of any steps or slopes that could have an impact.

It’s all in the planning. Never overload the forklift and plan the load as you go, making sure everything is spread evenly. Think about whether or not what you’re carrying is stable and how you might have to adjust your driving.

Keep it smooth. Lowering your forks whilst moving can increase stability and ensure you drive smoothly. By driving slowly you’ll have more time to react and therefore avoid mistakes.

Be safe. Wear your seatbelt and adhere to safety procedures at all times – if you don’t know what they are, ask!

For more information about our forklift training services, contact us on 03333 442949 or [email protected]

As we know, forklifts don’t last forever. There will come a time when you’ll need to replace your forklift, but how do you know when the time is right? Here’s what to look out for as sure signs you need to replace your forklift.

Wear and tear. Are you finding more and more often you need to pay out for repairs to your forklift? If the cost of repairing your forklift is going up, it might be worth investing in new equipment.

How much is your forklift working? It’s not just the cost of repairs you need to consider, but the amount of time a forklift is sat not working. Time is money! If your forklift is idle for repairs more often than not, take it as a warning sign.

Avoiding accidents and injuries. The most important thing is that warehouses need properly working equipment to ensure there are no accidents or injuries to warehouse workers and forklift operators. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

For more information about our forklift training services, contact us on 03333 442949 or [email protected]

Forklifts come in all shapes and sizes – and all do very important and different jobs. As such, it’s vital you purchase the right model of forklift according to your needs – here’s what you should take into account.

Indoors or outdoors? Consider where you’ll be using your forklift. If indoors, a battery powered electric model is probably best, whereas outdoor forklifts tend to be more heavyweight and powered by a traditional combustion engine. These vehicles can give off dangerous fumes, which is why they aren’t suitable to be used indoors.

Check out the height. Forklifts all have different maximum heights based on model, so make sure you’re aware of what you need in terms of height before making a decision.

How many hours? With proper maintenance and care forklifts can be operable for years. Before making any purchase make sure you know how many hours a forklift has already performed and the lifespan of the model.

For more information about our forklift training services, contact us on 03333 442949 or [email protected]