The time has come— you find that you’re in need of a forklift rental. Perhaps you have a seasonal need, so a short-term addition to your fleet is the answer. Certainly, a one-off job that requires heavy lifting is a prime example where renting a lift truck is the best solution to your material handling needs.

There are many types of forklifts available to rent, so do your homework and make sure to get a rental unit well suited for your particular needs. One of the most important things to consider is how you will be using your piece of equipment. Whether your forklift is for indoor or outdoor use, and how much load you need to lift are important to your decision. Another thing to consider is what you plan to be lifting. It’s important to know not only how heavy your average load will be, but also the heaviest weight you plan on lifting.

Here is a rundown of some key points to consider when renting a forklift:

How will the forklift be used? - Are you planning on using your machine mostly inside or outside? If your needs are strictly for indoor use, an electric forklift may be the ideal option. Electric forklifts are perfect for indoor use, as they don’t emit fumes that could endanger your working environment. If your need is outside a propane powered forklift might be the answer, especially if handling in rugged conditions. According to OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), this type of forklift can be used indoors as well; but it’s a matter of how often when considering environmental and safe operating conditions. It’s important to obey designated locations, and proper ventilation is critical to air quality. ^[1]

Weight capacity - Knowing what weights you will be working with also determines the type of forklift to rent. What is your average load weight and what is the heaviest load you will be lifting? It would be a big mistake to choose a lift truck with a maximum lift capacity below your needs. And there are specific forklift attachments that can help you move the load more efficiently. Capacity levels are as varied as the loads handled. For example, because of the vast capacity range of the Class V series of lift trucks, they can be found handling small single pallet loads to loaded 40-foot containers. ^[2] The right rental provider will help select the best option for your needs.

Lowered height – Each type of forklift mast has different heights when completely lowered. Check that you have adequate overhead clearance, which is especially important if your facility has height restrictions for doorways, loading docks, or other entrances. Be sure there is sufficient headroom under overhead structures, such as rack tunnels, conveyors, pipes, sprinkler systems, etc.

Length of the job – Do you need the forklift short-term or long-term? Ask about overtime charges if the forklift works more than 40 hours per week.

Inspect the forklift – Thoroughly inspect any equipment that you plan to rent. There are charges for forklifts returned with damage.

Read the contract – Besides the cost to rent, be aware of the terms and conditions of your agreement. It’s important to know how insurance of the equipment is handled, not to mention fueling of the forklift and hauling restrictions.

Certified operators – It is your responsibility to be sure your operator is properly trained to drive a forklift. You will be expected to comply with all laws, ordinances, and OSHA safety regulations.

Overall, look for a respectable forklift dealer that has a newer, well-maintained rental fleet.  And be sure, that if there should ever be a problem, they have certified field technicians to conduct emergency repairs to keep your project on track.

At Action Lift we offer a wide range of forklifts for rent. Whether you need a 3K, 8K, or 12K capacity forklift, we’ve got you covered. Do you need an electric reach truck? We can help with that too. Rest assured that we will do everything in our power to provide you with the best solution for your material handling equipment needs.

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References:

[1] https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/pit/workplacehazards/ventilation.html#indoor

[2] https://www.thebalancesmb.com/classification-of-forklift-trucks-2221172

 

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