Category Counter Balance

Maintenance of your forklift is vital to keep it up and running as long as possible. Regular service and maintenance should be part of your schedule, but despite that it’s good to know the signs of your forklift needing a service. So what should you be looking out for when it comes to your forklift needing a service?

Reduced power or slower response. Does the forklift seem sluggish and slower than usual? It might be worth checking the engine or the transmission to check if a service is required. If the steering seems off it’s worth investigating if the steering system needs some attention.

Watch for warning lights. Warning lights are built into forklifts for a reason – to warn us! It might seem easier to ignore them, but don’t – it might cost you more in the longer term if you ignore warning lights on your forklift dashboard.

Hearing strange noises? Again, another thing you might be tempted to ignore, but if your forklift doesn’t sound normal it’s likely there’s a problem that needs your attention. Get it serviced!

For more information about our forklift training or to book your place, contact 01582 383388 or [email protected].

2023 promises to be another big year in logistics and for forklifts! Demand for online shopping and fast responses keeps soaring, and your forklift fleet plays a vital role in ensuring orders are fulfilled on time. So what can we expect to see for forklifts in 2023?

Used forklifts are on the up. With the cost of used forklifts in some cases much cheaper than buying new the used forklift sector is still growing. If you’re considering replacing your equipment this year, take a look at the used models on offer – you may be surprised!

Make way for automation. As technology improves and expands, we are increasingly seeing more automated forklifts than before. Specialist equipment like robotic arms are reducing the risk of human injury and helping to increase productivity.

It’s all about the data! More and more warehouses are using software and data to analyse the performance of their forklifts and warehouses – by using data organisations can improve efficiency and productivity.

For more information about our forklift training or to book your place, contact 01582 383388 or [email protected].

Forklifts have a specific job – lifting and moving goods. They aren’t classed as vehicles so can’t be driven on roads for moving them from warehouse to warehouse. So what considerations do you need to make to transport your forklift safely?

Check dimensions! Not all forklifts are equal – if you want to transport your forklift before you look into transporters make sure you know the dimensions of your forklift and that it will fit in the transporter vehicle.

Safe and secure. Reverse your forklift onto the trailer and park it in the centre of the trailer to ensure balance. Use ratchets and chains to secure the forklift in place. And always check the fuel compartment is safe with no spillages!

Check you need to transport your forklift before you do it! The cost of transporting a forklift may be more expensive than hiring a forklift where you need it – so check your prices first!

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

Everyone is seeing risings costs these days, both consumers and businesses – and cutting costs in a must in today’s competitive market. So how can you save money on your forklift fleet?

Consider energy efficiency. When purchasing your next forklift it’s efficiency on energy consumption is a key factor to consider. If a forklift is using less fuel or electricity, costs will be lower. The important thing is to balance energy consumption alongside power, depending on the needs of your warehouse.

Longevity. Forklifts that last longer are cheaper to run, with fewer maintenance needs. Consider well-known brands when purchasing a new forklift to ensure a quality product – it might be a more expensive purchase but it’s likely to save you money in the long run.

Think about the driver too. Forklifts should be designed to be as efficient as possible for the driver. A forklift designed to minimise accidents will without a doubt cost less. Injuries caused by poor equipment can cost too, so make sure your forklift is comfortable for your operator.

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

We all know that forklifts are designed to lift objects, not people. But in some cases, forklift can provide a temporary platform or stairs if required – and to make it safe it’s vital you use a forklift safety cage. But when should you use it?

Forklift safety cages should be used only in certain situations. It’s possible to use a safety cage when you need to carry out emergency repairs or for non-routine maintenance. In some cases it may even be safer to use a forklift rather than more traditional methods like scaffolding, and it may be the best option when specialist support is not available.

Most importantly, when using forklift safety cages you must have full training and be aware of all health and safety considerations. Even if you’ve had training  before, this training must be refresh on a periodic basis. Be aware of the load limit and make sure you communicate effectively with your team at all times. Proper protective workwear is an absolute must.

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