A forklift is a go-to machine for applications across multiple industries, from warehousing to construction. Despite their commonality, operators and fleet managers may have questions about these pieces of equipment to maximize their investments.
We’ve compiled a list of five of the most frequently asked questions about forklifts.
1. How Can You Get a Forklift License?
Despite what some people may think, not just anyone can drive a forklift. Because these heavy machines are so complicated and can be dangerous to operate, it’s essential that anyone who drives them is properly qualified. Even experienced operators may need to get certified again, as forklift licenses aren’t permanent.
Currently, there are more than 400,000 certified forklift drivers in the United States, and the good news is that joining them is not complicated. If you have a job that requires you to drive a forklift, you may be able to obtain your forklift license through your employer.
Here are some considerations for getting certified to use a forklift:
- How long does it take to get licensed? Getting your license will typically take between one to five days, depending on what type of forklift you’re learning to drive.
- Who can get a forklift license? The requirements for getting certified include being at least 18 years old, having a high school or GED qualification, being in good health and having a clean background.
- Are there different types of forklift licenses? There are several types of forklift training and the courses you need to take depend on the applications you’ll perform with your equipment.
2. What Forklift Is Right for You?
If you’re searching for a forklift to add to your fleet, you might need some help figuring out which one to pick. This depends on factors like what you want to use the forklift for, what types of models you’re qualified to drive, which options are in stock near you and what your budget is.
With all those considerations in mind, exploring popular forklift types can help you decide which option is right for you. Here are some of the most common models:
- Warehouse forklifts: A warehouse model is one of the most popular forklifts and is often used indoors for applications like hauling or picking and packing.
- Rough terrain forklift: As the name suggests, a rough terrain forklift is designed for uneven or rocky ground, making it often the ideal option for outdoor jobs.
- Heavy-duty forklift: Heavy-duty forklifts can lift heavy objects much higher than warehouse models, so businesses often select these powerful machines for industrial tasks.
3. How Can You Maintain Your Forklift?
Proper maintenance practices are integral to maximizing your forklift investment and supporting peak performance.
Regular maintenance helps extend your forklift’s life span, increase safety for you and your co-workers and retain the machine’s resale value. Aside from a yearly service by a professional to assess your forklift’s condition and fix any serious issues, you should also do a daily inspection before use. Check for the following:
- Is there any apparent damage?
- Is there any debris you can remove?
- Are the tires in good condition?
- Are the water levels correct?
- Do all motor functions like driving and steering work properly?
4. What Are the Do’s and Don’ts of Operating a Forklift?
In 2022, forklifts caused 73 work-related deaths. And that’s just the number of fatalities — the number of injuries these machines cause is much higher, often reaching into the thousands each year.
Because of this, it’s essential to ensure that you know how to safely operate your equipment. If you run a business and have other people working for you, always train them on proper protocol.
You can follow these eight forklift do’s and don’ts to lower the risk of injury:
- Do regularly service your forklift: Even if your forklift seems fine, there could be hidden issues that could impair its safety. Regular service is key to monitoring the inner and outer workings of your machines to ensure greater overall security during operation.
- Don’t allow unqualified people to operate the forklift: No one who hasn’t been formally trained should ever operate a forklift under any circumstances — not even “just for a minute” or “just for fun.”
- Do consider a portable fire extinguisher on each forklift: This addition can be helpful for eradicating potential fires. If you work around flammable materials or in a space with fire danger, you can increase safety and gain greater peace of mind.
- Don’t speed: As tempting as it may be to push the limits to boost efficiency, you must drive the forklift at a responsible and recommended speed.
- Do wear the right clothing: Always wear the necessary personal protective equipment, such as high-visibility vests, steel-toe boots or hard hats, during forklift operation.
- Don’t get distracted: Distractions lead to accidents, so pay attention to your surroundings as you operate the forklift.
- Do inspect the forklift before use: Even if you checked the forklift the previous day, you should never skip this step.
- Don’t brake abruptly: If you stop too fast, the load could shift, causing the forklift to tip over.
5. When Should You Replace Your Forklift?
If you take proper care of your forklifts, they can last many years before you need to retire them. Even if a forklift gets damaged, the chances are good that you’ll be able to get a technician to repair it.
However, if your forklift is damaged beyond repair, consistently breaks down even after you’ve repaired it or is a safety hazard, it’s time to look for a new one.
With nearly 2.1 million forklifts sold globally in 2021, there’s no shortage of viable options to pick from if your forklift isn’t performing well anymore or you’re expanding your fleet. If you’re not in a position to invest in a new model right now, you can explore cost-effective rental and used options to ensure you have the tools you need without breaking the bank.
Get the Perfect Forklift for You With Bohl Equipment Co.
With answers to common questions about forklifts, you can make a more informed buying decision. If you are ready to add a new forklift to your fleet, turn to the high-quality inventory available from Bohl Equipment Co.
We have a wide range of new forklifts that you can explore to find the perfect match for you. If you’re working with a tighter budget, check out our used equipment — you can find great models at affordable prices. Our team can help you determine which machines are best suited for your specific operations.
Whatever you may need from your forklift, we can help. Contact us for more information today!
