Questions To Ask Before Hiring A Forklift
When you're considering hiring a forklift, it's important you don’t rush into a decision without asking the right questions. Consider what type of forklift will work best for your needs, make sure it can handle the specific loads you'll be working with, and determine how long you'll actually need it for your project. In this article, we'll go over some other important questions to keep in mind.
What Type Of Forklift Are You Looking to Rent?
Depending on your business needs, you've got a variety of options with the latest models and technology immediately available.
At Atlas Forklift, we have a range of forklifts you can choose from. Our range includes:
- Gas Forklifts
- Diesel Forklifts
- Electric Counterbalance Forklifts
- Reach Trucks
- Powered Pallet Trucks
What Load Am I Lifting?
When figuring out how much weight your forklift will be lifting, it's important to think about more than just the total weight, but the load centre is important too. If you try to lift more than a forklift is designed for, you risk it tipping over, which can cause serious injuries and damage to the items you're moving. These factors significantly influence the type of forklift required and its load capacity.
If you're unsure about which forklift suits your operational needs best, our team is here to provide guidance and recommend the ideal forklift for you
How Long Will You Be Needing The Truck For?
Consider whether your needs are immediate and short-term or if you anticipate needing the forklift for an extended period.
Short Term Hire
We offer short-term forklift rentals starting from just 1 day up to several weeks, and our rental periods are flexible.
Long Term/ Contract Hire
Our long-term forklift hire last for three, four, or five years.
What Fuel Source Is Best?
Choosing the right fuel source for your forklift depends on your specific operational needs and the environment in which it will be used.
- Diesel forklifts are durable and ideal for outdoor environments. They are resilient to various weather conditions and feature a large fuel tank, allowing for prolonged operation without the need for frequent refuelling.
- Gas Forklifts- Versatile. Indoor or outdoor use. They're quieter and generally require straightforward maintenance.
- Electric forklifts are compact, environmentally friendly, and have lower running costs over time. They're great for indoor operations.
At Atlas Forklift, we sell a range of forklifts that use different fuel types, click here to discover more.
Am I Responsible For Any Damage?
When you rent a forklift from us, you only need to take care of daily wear and tear, while we handle any major repairs as part of the rental agreement. This applies to both short and long-term hires. By choosing to hire instead of buy, you can avoid the financial burden of significant damages or mechanical problems that might arise during your rental period.
What Happens When I Am Done With My Rental?
When your rental period comes to an end, you have a few choices.
If you've finished using the forklift and no longer need it, you can return it without any extra costs—making it a convenient and stress-free option. However, if you've found the forklift indispensable, you can either rent another one or upgrade to a newer model. We're here to help you with whatever you decide!
What Are My Hire Options?
Several hire options are available to suit your specific forklift needs, whether you need a vehicle immediately or for a longer period.
Short Term Hire
If you need a forklift for a short period, a short-term rental might be the right choice for you. This option is ideal for businesses that experience seasonal spikes in demand. We offer short-term forklift rentals starting from just 1 day up to several weeks, and our rental periods are flexible. If you decide that you no longer need the forklift, you can easily return it to us.
Long Term/ Contract Hire
For longer needs, contract hire might be suitable. At Atlas Forklift, we offer long-term hire for periods of three, four, or five years. Our monthly hire rate covers maintenance and service, making it perfect for businesses that require a forklift for an extended duration that doesn't require a significant initial investment to buy equipment outright.
Does Your Work Facility Have Space Restrictions?
Before hiring a forklift, it's important to assess whether your work facility has the necessary space for safe and efficient manoeuvring. You'll need to measure the available space and consider any obstructions like power lines or beams that could affect operations.
Evaluate the width of your aisles and the turning radius required for the forklifts. Understanding these dimensions guarantees that the equipment can operate without causing delays or safety hazards.
Additionally, think about how the forklift will impact productivity in both tight and more open spaces. If your facility is cramped, you might need a model with a compact design or specialised attachments to navigate effectively, like a reach truck.
Always align the forklift's capabilities with your space limitations to maintain operational efficiency.
Will The Forklifts Be Used Indoors or Outdoors?
Whether your forklifts will be used indoors or outdoors will impact the type of forklift you’ll need.
Indoor forklifts tend to be smaller, perfect for manoeuvring tight spaces. They often have electric engines, reducing fume emissions. Whereas, outdoor forklifts are usually larger and they're designed for rough terrains and harsh weather conditions.
You'll also need to take into account the type of tyres. Indoor forklifts typically use cushion tyres, while outdoor machines need pneumatic tyres for better traction.
Before renting a forklift, ensure you've asked all the necessary questions. Getting clear answers will help you select the appropriate forklift and ensure it meets your business requirements. Contact us today, and our team will be happy to assist you and answer any questions you have about forklift hire.
