Category: Repair/Refurbush

The Advantages of Forklift Fleet Management Systems

Eight Benefits of a Forklift Management System

Every warehouse manager strives to streamline their business operations and enhance productivity. However, this goal becomes increasingly complex as their operation grows larger and competition intensifies. Fortunately, there is a tool that can help businesses stay ahead in this increasingly complex landscape, forklift fleet management software.

Different forklift fleet management solutions provide a range of benefits. Let’s examine the eight key benefits that warehouse managers want from a forklift management system.

Optimize fleet utilization

One of the primary advantages of a forklift management system is its ability to optimize the performance of an industrial truck fleet. For example, warehouse fleet management software can monitor a forklift’s location, usage frequency and downtime in real time to help managers allocate their industrial truck fleet most effectively. Tracking performance metrics and strategically utilizing the trucks can also help cut costs and extend the fleet’s lifespan.

Enhance productivity

Efficiency and productivity are essential to any successful warehouse operation. The real-time data provided by forklift fleet management software can also help streamline work processes. By analyzing a forklift’s travel, movement and loading and unloading times, a manager can identify workflow bottlenecks and other areas in the warehouse that need improvement. The result is a streamlined process and improved overall productivity.

Increase safety

The safety of everyone who works on or near an industrial truck is an essential element of forklift truck fleet management. Again, by analyzing the data provided by a forklift management system, managers can ensure that forklift operators are maintaining proper speeds and operating within any predefined safe zones. In some systems, sensors record any near misses with pedestrians or objects or alert operators and supervisors to potential safety hazards. This level of visibility can help managers create a safer working environment.

Improve inventory tracking accuracy

An inaccurate inventory count is the bane of warehouse (and retail) managers across the globe. Often, forklift fleet management software has RFID technology and barcode scanners integrated into the system that can track the movement of goods throughout the warehouse. However, if those elements are not included in your specific forklift management system, it likely can integrate with an existing inventory management system. This enhanced visibility into inventory movements, not just within your warehouse, but throughout the supply chain process, helps reduce errors in inventory counts, improve order fulfillment accuracy and increase customer satisfaction.

Optimize forklift fleet management and maintenance

Every second an industrial truck is out of commission is wasteful and costly. The best way to ensure that a fleet remains in peak condition is through routine maintenance. A forklift management system helps businesses implement and adhere to a preventive maintenance schedule by keeping track of upkeep needs and overall forklift performance to minimize downtime and costly repairs. Most forklift fleet management software can also monitor elements like fuel consumption and asset utilization to ensure that your trucks are used efficiently.

Ease compliance reporting

Regulatory compliance is important for every warehouse and distribution center, especially those dealing with sensitive or hazardous materials. A forklift management system provides comprehensive reporting tools that help businesses adhere to industry regulations. A manager can quickly generate detailed reports on forklift usage, maintenance history and operator performance. This comprehensive documentation makes routine compliance reporting much easier and takes some (please note that we said “some”) of the stress out of surprise audits and inspections.

Enhance training and performance monitoring

By providing valuable insights into operator behavior, such as speed, maneuvering and safety, a forklift management system can enhance operator training and monitor the performance of a fleet management forklift. Managers can use the data to identify areas where additional training or coaching may be needed to improve skills and reduce the risk of accidents. Forklift fleet management software can also track and record operator certifications and training history, ensuring compliance with those pesky aforementioned regulatory requirements.

Focus on environmental sustainability

Sustainability and environmental responsibility are entrenched business practices that continue to grow in importance. Many of the previously mentioned benefits of a forklift management system also contribute to green initiatives, such as optimizing forklift routes, reducing idle times and monitoring fuel consumption. By utilizing the insights provided by the forklift fleet management software, managers can achieve business goals that align with environmentally friendly practices.

How to manage forklift fleet

There are many examples of forklift fleet management software, and the list of forklift fleet management software is long. However, to find the right one for your business, it’s best to search for a solution that includes the eight benefits of a forklift management system while also addressing the unique needs of your business. 

Texas Motive Solutions also wants to understand and accommodate the unique needs of your business. That’s why we offer our complimentary forklift fleet performance analysis that ensures you’re utilizing the best forklift batteries and accessories for your fleet’s requirements. Please, give us a call at (888) 316-2459 or fill out this form to learn about our services and discover everything we can do for you.

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Forklift Transport: Successful Strategies for Forklift Towing

Forklift Transport Successful Strategies for Forklift Towing

Forklifts are excellent at moving heavy loads throughout a facility. However, what happens when the heavy load that needs to be moved is the forklift itself? Well, that’s when you need to rely on a fork truck transport.

Forklifts move on their own. It’s one of the main selling points for any forklift. As long as you only need a forklift to operate within a single facility or general area, you will find that a forklift’s propulsion suits your purposes. However, since it is illegal for a forklift to operate on public roads, there are several reasons a business may need a forklift transport, such as:

  • Site transfers: In a large industrial complex, it may not be feasible or economical for a forklift to travel across the site on its own power. The same is true for companies that have multiple locations. Transporting forklifts between sites is essential to maintaining a smooth workflow.
  • Facility reorganization: Anyone reorganizing a warehouse or workspace layout may need to relocate a forklift fleet temporarily.
  • New purchases or leases: Similarly, a company upgrading to a new facility may need to transfer its existing forklifts to the new location.
  • Maintenance: Most forklift repair and maintenance services occur on-site (such as Texas Motive Solutions’ forklift battery repair). However, serious issues may require transport to a maintenance facility.

Forklift transport considerations

There are companies that specialize in transporting heavy machines like forklifts. Pricing is based on several factors, such as the number of forklifts, type of forklifts, total weight and travel time. The final cost can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars.

If you have the necessary equipment, it may make sense to transport the forklifts yourself. Before you decide, there are several factors to keep in mind:

  • Safety: Regardless of transportation method, a forklift must be securely loaded and tied down. Improper transport techniques pose significant safety risks.
  • Preserving the equipment: Forklifts are tough and withstand a lot during an average shift. However, that does not mean they can handle an unsecured trip during transport. Rough or careless transport can lead to equipment bouncing around or careening off a truck. Properly transported forklifts are less likely to suffer damage during transit, leading to longer lives and lower maintenance costs.
  • Maintaining timelines: Equipment downtime, such as when a forklift is not forklifting, is costly for a company. Anyone unfamiliar with fork truck transport may double or even triple the time a forklift spends on the truck, leading to lost productivity.
  • Compliance: It’s not uncommon for regions to have strict regulations governing heavy equipment transport, like forklifts. Adhering to legal and safety standards helps avoid fines and penalties. Be sure to know your local laws and directives.

How to load a forklift

Two primary forms of transportation are used to move forklifts over long distances: trailers and flatbeds. A trailer is an enclosed structure that can help protect the forklift against the weather and other types of damage. A flatbed is an open structure that exposes the forklift but is often easier to load, secure and unload.

Before loading a forklift on either a trailer or flatbed, some safety precautions will help ensure you, your staff and your equipment remain safe and secure.

First, and perhaps most important, use protective gear. This includes PPE for you and your employees, such as heavy gloves and protective footwear, and guards, straps and padding to protect your forklift. Next, just like you need to know the weight of the cargo you lift with a forklift, you also need to know the weight of your forklift to ensure that the transport can handle the load. Finally, inspect the transport to make sure it is in proper working order, including the tires, lights and brakes. Be sure to look for any damage or issues that might impede the loading process. Remove any loose or detachable parts that could be damaged during transport and check the fluid levels and tire pressure.

How to load a forklift on a trailer or a forklift on flatbed

The steps to load a forklift onto either a trailer or flatbed are remarkably similar.

Step 1: Prep the forklift.

Think of this step like you were renting a car. You know how you don’t want to be charged for that previously dented fender? It’s like that, but in this case, you want to make sure the forklift will operate when it arrives at its destination. Be sure to remove any loose or detachable parts that could be damaged during transport, and check and adjust fluid levels and tire pressure.

Step 2: Prep the transport.

You should have inspected the transport (think of that as Step 0); now, you need to move the transport to a flat surface and ensure it is stable. Check the surrounding area for any obstacles and remove them, if possible (if not, you may need to move the transport to a better location). Set the parking brake and place wheel chocks on the front and rear wheels to ensure the transport does not move accidentally.

Step 3: Secure the loading ramp.

Position the loading ramp at the entrance of the loading area. Follow the directions to secure the ramp to the transport.

Step 3.5: Doublecheck the height and width (a forklift hauling trailer exclusive).

Before loading a forklift into an enclosed trailer, ensure the space is tall and wide enough to accommodate the machine. As you merrily drive up the ramp, the last thing you want is to slam into the sides or top of the forklift towing trailer. You can avoid this step using an open-air flatbed because the headspace is infinite.

Step 4: Load the forklift.

Carefully drive the forklift up the ramp onto the transport. Use a spotter to help guide the machine and ensure it is centered on the transport for proper weight distribution when traveling. A spotter is especially helpful for navigating tight spaces.

Step 5: Ready the forklift for transport.

After loading the forklift, lower all booms, buckets, attachments and accessory equipment. Turn off the engine and apply the break. Then, secure the forklift by locking all doors, covers and tailgates. You may want to go an extra step and cover the machine with a tarp.

How to tie down a forklift

Once your forklift is on the transport, you must secure it for the trip.

Step 1: Procure the necessary equipment.

Not every transport is built the same. So, make sure that your bindings are compatible with the trailer or flatbed. Once you identify the transport’s D-rings, anchor points or other attachment points, you also need to find comparable structural components on the forklift, like the frame or designated tie-down points.

Step 2: Secure the forklift.

Wrap heavy-duty straps, chains or tie-downs around and through the structural components on the forklift and attach them to the identified anchor points on the transport. As you do this, try to cross the straps or chains to create Xs for added stability.

Step 3: Tighten the straps or chains.

Use ratchets or tensioning devices to pull the straps or chains tight. Crank these devices to ensure the forklift is secure, but do not over-tighten because you could damage the forklift. Verify that all straps or chains are properly tensioned and secured. Adjust as needed.

Step 4: Check the stability.

Stand to the side of the machine and gently shake the forklift to confirm that it is secure. You want to stand to the side, not in front or behind the machine, in case it accidentally moves. 

Is towing with a forklift legal?

If you are more interested in towing with your forklift than forklift towing, it is legal, sort of. There are forklift attachments you can purchase that are designed for short-distance towing.

However, these attachments are only intended for use within a facility, work site or parking area. You cannot use a forklift to tow a vehicle or anything else on public roads because driving a forklift on public roads is illegal. Also, before attempting to tow anything with a forklift, make sure that the weight is within the truck’s capacity.

Whether using your forklift on-site or towing it to another work area, you must ensure that it runs at peak performance for its entire shift. That’s where Texas Motive Solutions can help. We have the forklift batteries and accessories you need to keep your fleet running. Plus, if you have any questions, we provide a complimentary forklift fleet performance analysis to guarantee you have the correct batteries for your needs.

Give us a call at (888) 316-2459 or fill out this form to discover everything Texas Motive Solutions can do for you.

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Forklift Rental Cost: Guide to Pricing

Forklift Rental Cost Guide to Pricing

Renting or buying? It’s one of the great philosophical debates that has plagued humans for millennia, just like “Chocolate or vanilla?” and “Cake or pie?” So, whether you rent a forklift for a day or buy one for its lifetime, the decision is based on what’s best for your company.

The COVID-19 outbreak disrupted life across the globe. One impact of the pandemic was a worldwide disruption of the supply chain. While supplies are rebuilding and deliveries normalizing, many companies are still experiencing long lead times for new material handling equipment. Forklift rentals provide a solution during the long wait for new equipment.

Another causality of long lead times is forklift batteries and chargers failing because they’re not being used. If you need help maintaining your forklift batteries and chargers while waiting for new equipment, please get in touch with Texas Motive Solutions at (888) 316-2459 or fill out this form. We can help!

Renting a forklift has many advantages for companies looking for flexible and cost-effective material handling solutions, but it is not the correct move for every company. For businesses with consistent, long-term requirements, buying one or a fleet of forklifts could be much more cost-efficient over the equipment’s lifespan. So, how much is it to rent a forklift? Well, when it comes time to consider renting or buying, here are some factors to keep in mind.

Benefits of forklift rental rates vs. purchasing

Money savings

As with all important business matters, the financial impact on your bottom line must be a primary consideration. There are a few ways that renting a forklift can save money. Purchasing a forklift requires a significant up-front investment. If you rent instead, that initial capital can be held or spent on other projects. Having this cash available can be significant for small and medium-sized businesses. However, investing in a forklift or two can be more cost-effective over time. A careful analysis will help determine how to spend your forklift funds.

Flexibility

If your business is impacted by seasonal demands or just general uncertainty, checking into forklift rental cost is likely a sensible business decision. The ability to scale up or down based on business needs, such as during peak seasons or for specific projects, is significant and more economical than purchasing and maintaining a permanent fleet.

Fewer administrative tasks

Owning a forklift means dealing with equipment registration, insurance and compliance issues. There’s also the eventual challenge of selling or disposing of the fleet once it has served its purpose. None of those undertakings are the worst things in the world, but they can be a hassle. Renting forklifts does not mean you’re completely free from paperwork, but there is much less of it, and you never need to deal with obsolete equipment.

Rent to own

This is not referencing a literal “rent to own” scenario (although that may be an option in your area; we don’t know). Instead, renting forklifts allows businesses to try out specific equipment before making a purchase. Renting can also help you avoid work stoppages if your equipment has broken down or you’re dealing with another emergency.

Factors that influence forklift rental prices

Before you commit, you need to know how much is it to rent a forklift. Well, many factors can cause forklift rental prices to be higher in one location and lower in another, including:

Length of rental

How long you need a forklift is a fixed part of forklift rental pricing. You may walk into a forklift dealer, see a sign proclaiming, “Rent forklift for a day,” and think, “For a day! What a bargain.” Well, the shorter the rental, the higher the rate.

In general, forklifts are rented daily, weekly or monthly (you won’t see many, if any, places quoting a forklift rental cost per hour). While someone who needs a forklift for a few months will pay more than someone who needs one for a couple of days, the average monthly price is considerably less than a weekly or daily rate. A monthly rental may also have perks included in the contract, such as maintenance packages and equipment upgrades, that aren’t included in a short-term lease.

Equipment type

Forklift rental rates are also directly impacted by the type of equipment you need. Smaller equipment, such as a reach truck, costs significantly less than a large industrial workhorse, like a telehandler. Other factors influencing forklift rental pricing include load capacity, fuel type and attachments. Specialized and high-capacity forklifts generally have higher rates, too.

Demand

If a forklift is in high demand, it will have a correspondingly high rental pricing. Factors impacting demand include peak seasons (when many businesses require forklifts) and low rental supply.

Another factor is geography. If you reside in an area with high living costs or where equipment demand is generally high, rental rates will likely be elevated. Economic conditions can also impact rental costs. For example, demand may be up in times of economic prosperity, leading to higher prices.

Rental company

It would be a mistake to overlook this aspect of forklift rental pricing. The company where you rent the forklift significantly impacts the rates because it literally sets them. Of course, the rental company is affected by the above factors and competition from other forklift dealers. However, some companies offer incentives that others do not. Researching multiple rental companies in your area to find the best prices and bonuses can pay off.

How much does it cost to rent a forklift?

Below are price ranges for some of the most popular forklift rentals. Remember these are only estimates and that prices vary by region.

Electric three- and four-wheel counterbalanced forklift rental rates

An electric motor powers these forklifts, and they utilize cushion tires suited for flat, indoor surfaces.

Load capacity: 3,000 to 4,000 lbs.

  • $190-$360 per day.
  • $450-$700 per week.
  • $1,125-$1,650 per month.

Load capacity: 5,000 to 6,000 lbs.

  • $225-$400 per day.
  • $500-$800 per week.
  • $1,350-$1,850 per month.

Load capacity: 7,000 to 10,000 lbs. 

  • $300-$450 per day.
  • $650-$950 per week.
  • $1,650-$2,300 per month.

Internal combustion engine (ICE) forklift rental rates

These machines are powered by diesel, gasoline, propane or compressed natural gas and typically operate outdoors.

Load capacity: 3,000 to 5,000 lbs.

  • $200-$350 per day.
  • $450-$650 per week.
  • $1,000-$1,500 per month.

Load capacity: 6,000 to 8,000 lbs.

  • $280-$450 per day.
  • $500-$750 per week.
  • $1,250-$1,800 per month.

Load capacity: 10,000 lbs.

  • $320-$525 per day.
  • $550-$825 per week.
  • $1,600-$2,000 per month.

Load capacity: 12,000 to 15,500 lbs.

  • $400-$550 per day.
  • $850-$1,100 per week.
  • $2,400-$2,700 per month.

Load capacity: 16,000 to 21,500 lbs.

  • $300-$700 per day.
  • $850-$1,200 per week.
  • $2,500-$3,000 per month.

Load capacity: 22,000 to 36,000 lbs.

  • $750-$900 per day.
  • $1,700-$1,900 per week.
  • $4,800-$5,500 per month.

Electric-powered pallet truck rental rates

Pallet jacks are one of the most rented industrial machines.

Load capacity: 4,500 lbs.

  • $60-$130 per day.
  • $150-$325 per week.
  • $450-$800 per month.

Load capacity: 6,000 to 8,000 lbs.

  • $80-$150 per day.
  • $200-$375 per week.
  • $650-$950 per month.

Reach truck rental rates

A reach truck’s rental price is based on lift height because they all have the same load capacity.

Lift height to 258 feet

  • $200-$280 per day.
  • $450-$550 per week.
  • $1,300-$1,550 per month.

Lift height greater than 258 feet

  • $230-$300 per day.
  • $450-$600 per week.
  • $1,500-$1,800 per month.

Hidden costs, a.k.a. “It costs how much to rent a forklift?!”

Once you decide to rent one or more forklifts, carefully read the contract before signing on the bottom line. Some unexpected fees tend to lurk in many rental agreements, such as:

Delivery and pickup charges

Your rented industrial trucks need to get from the rental location to your place of business, and they’re not making it down the highway. So, unless you own a truck that’s rugged enough to transport a forklift, you’ll need to pay someone to move your trucks.

Rental companies typically charge for transportation to and from the rental site, and the further away your business is located, the more it will cost. The best way to prepare for delivery and freight charges is to get in front of them. Ask about delivery fees early in the negotiations and keep them in mind as you shop. That way, there will not be any transportation-related surprises when the invoice hits your inbox.

Insurance

First, the good news is that the rental facility will likely have insurance to cover any damage to its equipment. If your business covers the costs, they’re probably already baked into the rental price.

Now the, not really bad, but also not great news. Forklifts bump into stuff. Even the most careful driver will likely nick a rack, maybe scrape a wall. Forklift accidents happen, and those are minor examples. In fact, forklifts rank seventh on OSHA’s list of the top 10 most frequently cited standards. The most recent OSHA statistics state that there are approximately:

  • 85 fatal forklift accidents per year.
  • 35,000 accidents with serious injuries.
  • 62,000 non-serious accidents.

Any damage or accidents that occur on your property are likely your responsibility. Be sure to carefully review the insurance coverage to determine whether the rental facility’s basic coverage is sufficient. Otherwise, you will need additional coverage to protect your business.

Fuel costs

If you’re renting an indoor forklift, that forklift will have a battery, and that battery will have a charger, both of which are (generally) included in the rental price. So, no extra costs there.

However, if you need an outdoor rough terrain forklift, those beasts run on either gasoline, diesel, propane or compressed natural gas. Like renting a car, you need to pay for gas in every vehicle (often, the machine is delivered with a full tank and expected to be returned with a full tank). If you are renting a propane-fueled forklift, ask your rental facility if the tank is included in the agreement and if refilling it is your responsibility.

Overtime

Most rental contracts include a usage clause that covers a traditional eight-hour workday, 40-hour work week or 160-hour work month. However, if you need the machine to spend a little (or a lot of) extra time at the worksite, you are responsible for those overtime costs.

Overtime rates typically relate to the size of the industrial truck. In other words, the overtime rates for a 5,000 lbs. load capacity forklift are less than those for a 36,000 lbs. load capacity forklift.

Return fees

Regardless of the type of forklift and the environment where it is used, there will be a clause in the rental contract specifying the condition of the lift truck. You may be on the hook to repair any damages or even cleaning costs if the lift is returned in an especially filthy condition. Some companies may require a security deposit that is only returned based on the forklift’s condition.

Be sure that you completely understand the rental company’s expectations regarding the forklift’s condition and cleanliness. Also, thoroughly inspect the forklift and document any existing damage before accepting it for rental.

Getting the best forklift rental pricing

To ensure that your forklift rental cost is favorable, start online. Look for forklift rental companies with the highest ratings and review previous customers’ experiences. Once you narrow the field to a few companies, tour the facility to get an idea of the age and condition of its fleet. Get quotes to compare the daily, weekly and monthly pricing structures. Be sure to ask about every potential hidden fee. (Also, make sure they have your desired forklifts in stock. Some companies have limited availability, especially during peak seasons.)

Next, it’s time to negotiate. Here are a few opportunities for saving money.

  • Bundled services: ask if discounts are available if you purchase multiple services, such as maintenance packages and equipment upgrades.
  • Volume discounts: bargains may be available if you need several forklifts or a long-term rental.
  • Leverage competing offers: this could be where all that research pays off: get bids from multiple companies, then play them against each other. 

Speaking of rentals, if you need additional forklift batteries to get through a busy season, Texas Motive Solutions has plenty of forklift batteries and chargers available to lease.

Please call us at (888) 316-2459 or fill out this form to learn more about our rental program, discover our complimentary forklift fleet performance analysis and see how our industrial battery services help keep your fleet up and running.

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