Forklift Rental Tips

23 June 2022
 Categories: , Blog


You do not need to purchase a forklift when you have a short-term project or when you require a wide range of equipment. Rentals are a suitable option since it ensures access to a wide range of forklift makes and models at a fraction of their cost. While renting a forklift could seem pretty straightforward, several precautions can ensure a seamless experience and prevent additional charges as you use the equipment. Continue reading this exciting excerpt with some forklift rental tips. 

Assess the Forklift's Capabilities

Is the forklift suitable for your site operations? Examine the following: 

  • What are the forklift's capacity and maximum lift? The rule is to ensure the rented equipment can hoist heavier loads than the heaviest load at the site. This way, you do not overwork the lift mechanism.
  • What is the size of the forklift? Smaller forklifts are ideal when working in constricted areas such as warehouse aisles.
  • What is the forklift's ground clearance? If you intend to use the equipment on a rough and uneven surface, go for rough terrain forklifts with off-road tires and high ground clearance.
  • Is the cab comfortable? Go for a spacious cab with a hydraulic seat to avoid back problems after spending many hours on the forklift. If you will use the forklift in chilly weather, consider closed cabs with an AC unit.
  • The forklift must have state-of-the-art safety features such as blind-spot detection, low-height flashing beacons, panoramic rear view, and overhead guards.  

Ask for a Competent Operator

The only reason to operate the forklift is if you are a trained and skilled operator. Otherwise, you should request the rental company to deploy an operator. There are several reasons to use the company's operator. First, the operators undergo intense training to ensure they observe safety at the site. For instance, they conduct daily site assessments to determine if the site has risks that pose a hazard to the forklift. For example, low-hanging wires could come into contact with the forklift's masts. Secondly, the operators are also well-versed with the forklift's operating mechanism. For instance, they might know that the hydraulic or braking system needs servicing after a certain number of hours. This insider knowledge prevents them from operating a forklift with defective systems. Finally, using an operator helps you avoid conflict with the rental company if the equipment breaks down or suffers an accident. 

Negotiate the Rental Terms

The rental terms should guarantee value for your money. The rule is to negotiate them before renting the forklift. For instance, the company should ship the equipment to your premises. Moreover, the company should ensure the forklift is fully insured and in excellent condition. Finally, the payment schedule should be flexible and reasonable. 


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