What does the future hold for the forklift and manual handling industry over the next decade?
Forklift driving and manual handling have changed dramatically over the years. Forklifts are now designed with the driver in mind, ensuring the driver’s comfort is as important as the safety aspects. Equipment to assist with manual handling is as ergonomic as possible to limit turnover and of course, staff that work in the industry have far more training than they used to be given. In most companies, one can’t drive a forklift truck now without a licence or undergoing rigorous training.

Technology within this sector is developing rapidly with the introduction of A.I, driver-less forklifts and the development of hoists and other equipment which means manual assistance is not as necessary as it once was. This could be a good thing as long term, the use of A.I will cut costs, but it may mean there are fewer jobs for workers in the industry if they can be replaced with robots. The question everyone in the building and construction industry is asking now, is what does the future hold for the industry and what other changes are there likely to be in the future?

Brexit – make or break

Brexit has impacted the industry in quite a dramatic way. Due to stockpiling in warehouses because of the uncertainty Brexit entails, the demand for forklift truck hire has increased dramatically. This has also meant an increase in demand for forklift truck drivers. Many companies are stating that their warehouses are already full which may lead to a knock-on effect in which a demand for more warehouses may also become an issue. It’s difficult for businesses to gauge the best course of action regarding stockpiling because Brexit is still up in the air and until negotiations are completed, no one can be sure what is going to happen. Stockpiling sounds a good idea in theory, but it means there will be an excess of stock for companies to shift in the future and that may not be so easy once the true effects of Brexit, and the red tape that is sure to occur afterwards, become clear. It could well be the case that companies are left with warehouses full of stock that they are unable to shift.

The UK warehousing industry currently adheres to strict EU health and safety laws. Brexit may mean that safety standards, regulations and restrictions change, which would impact heavily on all personnel. As mentioned before, warehouses are likely to be in demand especially as manufacturers and importers that have warehouses abroad will be looking for warehousing within the UK to avoid any extra cost or problems that might arise with having their warehouses in any of the other EU member nations. This is all very well, but if there are not enough warehouses to meet demand, then new ones will have to be built and that involves heavy investment, something that companies are not confident in carrying out at the moment, due to the uncertainty surrounding Brexit and the impact it will have on businesses.

Other Brexit issues

Another issue will be a smaller pool of qualified labour available due to the strict immigration laws that the UK are now implementing, along with the possibility of qualified European staff leaving the UK for better career and job prospects and ease of free movement. The exodus of Europeans leaving the UK since the referendum is already impacting on the building and construction industry and replacing staff and training up new ones is costly. If Europeans still working in the UK decide to leave, along with the possibility of British workers leaving and relocating as well, there could be a shortage of personnel, which will affect all aspects of a business, not just turnover.

Companies will have no choice but to find innovative ways to increase the amount of work they can achieve with the resources available to them. Increased costing for maintaining and operating machinery and equipment means that overheads are already high and should this increase, the warehousing industry will need to pay close attention and possibly need to look at collaboration with other warehousing companies to keep overheads to a minimum. Brexit may well improve things for the warehousing industry, but there is also the possibility that it will make things even more difficult and this is something that won’t become apparent until the UK finally leaves the EU and the true impact can be analysed.

Future Forklift Trends – Warehousing and Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence is already gaining a place in the UK warehousing industry, albeit very slowly. However, this is likely to change shortly as driverless trucks, robots and computer technology advances to the extent that using A.I becomes a necessary part of the sector to keep up with competition and maintain low overheads.

At the moment, artificial intelligence is not without its flaws and robots do have limitations in regards to mobility and use. They cannot currently change movements between fine and heavy activities, which means if the goods being handled are delicate, they can easily become damaged. Translucent packaging and reflective packages also hinder the camera and sensor abilities of a robot too. These are a few reasons why A.I has yet to be used widely in the industry. However, these issues are being worked upon already.

Robots as co-workers

A project called ILIAD (Intra-logistics with Integrated Automatic Deployment) has been underway for the last three years with scientists from the UK and Europe collaborating to perfect robots that can be used in warehouses. Scientists are trying to create new forklift trucks that will be safe and reliable to work beside humans in the warehouse. The idea of the project is to develop the robots using complex A.I and to place them into the workforce within the next few years. These types of vehicles are known as automated guided vehicles (AGVs), and will be used to assist with packing, palletising and transporting stock. The most important aspect the scientists are working on is to ensure the robots have excellent awareness, using computer vision and artificial intelligence to notice and predict the behaviour of all humans around them. The robots will also be able to update information and learn from data they collect over time. Eventually, the robots will save time and manpower, therefore reducing costs and increasing productivity.

Pros and cons of A.I in the workforce

There are quite a few benefits to using robots and A.I. For example, robots are more dexterous, flexible and scalable than humans, which will reduce the strain on limited workers and keep them safe. If warehousing productivity is improved, this also makes for a better work environment and of course, human error is almost eliminated and will result in increased accuracy of orders packed and shipped. However, there is a downside to this for workers. Robots will mean a decrease in labour costs and hiring, so training and employee benefits will be eliminated, meaning huge financial gain for the company but no demand for human forklift truck operators.

Changes in consumer trends

As the industry relies mainly on the consumer either directly, or indirectly, how individuals and businesses purchase goods impacts heavily. Over the last 10 years, shopping trends have changed dramatically and as a nation, we’ve become used to shopping online from the comfort of our home or office. We now expect goods to be delivered quickly and preferably within a few hours! A by-product of the increase in shopping online has been a rise in demand for forklift truck drivers. Online shopping, home delivery and rapid order turnarounds require large scale warehouses to house vast quantities of stock. Therefore, experienced and skilled forklift drivers are needed to ensure the stock leaves the warehouse on time. It’s easy to forget that forklift drivers play an important role in the supply chain process and are vital to keeping the supply chain moving.

Consumers in the future

Experts are stating that in the future, online shopping will be the main way that consumers purchase goods and this will lead to an even bigger demand for warehouses to have the capacity to house stock in bulk and have the skilled personnel to keep the warehouse running smoothly. Forklift operators need a very specific set of skills to carry out their role efficiently and safely and businesses are constantly developing innovative training technologies. This area will continue to grow and expand, although as with all new technologies, there are additional costs involved.

A changing future for warehousing

All evidence suggests that during the next decade, there will be many changes coming to the forklift and manual handling industry. Warehouse owners will likely have to accept the fact they will need to invest in their warehouses to keep up with new trends and stay competitive. Existing workers will require new training to operate any new machinery or to work alongside robotic forklifts, while new rules and regulations due to Brexit may mean radical changes to the way warehouses currently operate. All of this means personnel will require intense training throughout the coming years. The industry will grow and change substantially over the next decade, but most likely at a cost. If A.I is implemented as is expected, this may mean job losses or existing workers having to train in other areas for them to remain a necessary part of the workforce. It’s impossible to predict exactly what the future holds for the building and construction industry, but one thing we can guarantee is the fact it will not continue in the same way that it currently operates and significant changes will be required in all sectors.

Whatever the future holds, we’re here to help you with your forklift fleet today. Contact us to chat about what you need for your business.

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Hiremech has had a very busy 2019! As the number one forklift hire company in London, that’s not surprising. But this year has been exceptional, even by our standards!

So, as the year draws to a close, we take a look back over 2019 to celebrate our achievements and growth, and to reflect on the most notable events of the past year.

Acquired by Briggs Equipment

In January 2019, Hiremech was acquired by Briggs Equipment of Cannock, Staffordshire. The acquisition enhances Briggs Equipment’s profile by strengthening its presence in the South East and London. And that’s great news for Hiremech too, in that we now have a whole new range of products to offer our customers, courtesy of Briggs.

Hiremech is now a subsidiary of Briggs, although we continue to trade under our own name and all our current operational contracts remain in place. Now that the acquisition is complete, Hiremech are representatives of the Utilev and Hyster forklift truck brands, as well as maintaining our continued access to JLG Equipment and Hako. The acquisition is great news for Hiremech in that it will allow us to enjoy continued exponential growth in the future.

New product ranges from Hako

We now include Hako and products in our range something that we introduced in 2019.

The Hako machines we supply includes a range of ride-on scrubber dryers and pedestrian sweepers.

Hako pedestrian sweepers are also called “walk behind sweepers,” and they are the easy-to-use alternative to the traditional broom and shovel method of floor cleaning. Pedestrian sweepers work by sweeping the ground while simultaneously collecting and storing dust and debris, and they can be used in both commercial and industrial premises. Our new range of Hako pedestrian sweepers are easy to use, comfortable to operate and come in a range of sizes to suit a whole range of businesses.

The Hako ride-on scrubber dryers that we now supply use powerful jets of water and onboard-stored cleaning solution to scrub the floor clean. A powerful suction mechanism then collects the dirty water, leaving the floor spotlessly clean. Ride-on scrubber driers come in a range of sizes from small, compact models to large industrial machines that are ideal for use in big commercial premises and car parks. A ride-on scrubber drier enables you to carry out the job quicker and more thoroughly than by-hand, presenting a cost-effective, time-efficient solution to businesses that is proving extremely popular.

Continuing to grow towards the future

At Hiremech, we know that forklift sales and manufacturing is a massive growth area that’s fuelled by rising demand. Financial experts and economists predict that the forklift truck market is set to grow exponentially over the forthcoming few years, and a growth rate of 6.9% is predicted. This is a significant figure when you take into account that the forklift market is worth approximately $35.3 billion, and the latest growth predictions expect to see market expansion to around $55.9 billion.

That growth is fuelled by many factors, including a construction industry boom and a proportionate increase in warehouse sizes. Also, green technology is fuelling major economic growth, and electronic forklift trucks are one of the key elements of this incredibly exciting market.

We are continuing to see this growth through our business, which strengthens the position of the industry for the future.

New customers

Hiremech has also welcomed several new customers this year. These are substantial contracts that involve the supply of a range of trucks, as well as ongoing service contracts.

Wastecare uses durable trucks for outdoor use, and they also have an ongoing service contract. Wastecare is a waste management and recycling service that enables waste producers from all industrial sectors to manage their hazardous waste. They have 12 regional recycling centres and a fleet of over 150 collection vehicles.

Camden Town Brewery hires counter-balance and pallet trucks with an ongoing service contract. Camden Town Brewery is a relatively young company that creates and supplies high-quality beers to premises in London and the surrounding areas.

FW Mansfield uses gas and durable trucks for outdoor use and we have an ongoing service contract with them. Kent-based Mansfield’s provides a complete service in fresh produce, specialising in growing top-quality fruit and providing professional packing and storage services.

New team members

In addition to all the aforementioned exciting developments, we have welcomed three sales representatives and three road engineers to our team. These new appointments are vital if we’re to handle the business growth that we’re confident will happen in 2020 and in the years to come. Also, our expanded sales force will be perfectly placed to take advantage of the new products that we are now able to offer our customers, thanks to our new relationship with Briggs.

Final thoughts

Here at Hiremech, we’ve enjoyed a hugely successful 2019!

As well as welcoming new staff members, seeing continued business growth, and launching a wide range of new products, we now come under the umbrella of Briggs Equipment.

That move will enable us to continue to grow the business and build on our success to date, making the future a very exciting place to be.

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What is a pallet truck?

A pallet truck, sometimes known as a pallet jack or a pump truck, is a trolley designed to be used for lifting and transporting pallets. It works by using tapered forks that slot beneath pallets, then workers use the pump handle to raise or lower the pallets. For this reason, this piece of equipment is commonplace in stockrooms, warehouses and other environments that use wooden pallets frequently.

So, you may now be wondering what situations pallet trucks are best suited to. Generally, they work best when used for relatively short distances. It is also worth noting that each and every pallet truck comes with its own weight capacity. This weight capacity should not be overloaded. The weight capacity exists to ensure that the pallet truck is easy to keep control of, as well as runs smoothly and easily – excess weight will affect these functions negatively.

Pallet trucks are generally designed for use with wooden pallets. To transport a load with a pallet truck, first place the load on the pallet and ensure it is secure with a suitable load restraint product. Once your load has been suitably restrained you can begin to move your pallet into place and slide the forks under the gaps that are provided exactly for this purpose. The user should then use the truck’s pump action handle, effectively raising the pallet off the ground.

Pallet trucks are great for making it easier to transport and manoeuvre loads around your premises, also eradicating many of the health risks and hazards that often come with having to lift heavy loads.

What are the different types of pallet truck?

There are many different types of pallet truck, each designed to suit different requirements. There are rough terrain pallet trucks or all-terrain pallet trucks that are specially designed to help you manoeuvre loads across rough terrain, mini pallet trucks for a compact and cost-effective solution for smaller loads and pallets, wide pallet trucks designed to accommodate loads of goods that are especially wide, and even electric pallet trucks that will remove most of the manual effort involved in lifting and moving especially heavy loads.

EP Equipment is a manufacturer of highly innovative products in the field of warehouse trucks, with over 20 years of experience in the material handling industry and a specific focus on electric equipment. When it comes to pallet trucks, EP Equipment sells three categories that include manual hand pallet trucks, pedestrian electric pallet trucks, and electric ride on trucks.

Manual hand pallet trucks are a common tool used for lifting and moving over short distances. A key advantage of hand pallet trucks is that they are generally the most cost-effective option. The trucks are available in a wide variety of lift capacities and fork lengths, they are easy to operate and no driving licence is needed.

Pedestrian Electric pallet trucks reduces much of the manual labour involved in lifting and moving due to the movement of the truck being electric. This is generally regarded to be the fastest-growing category of the material handling equipment industry, with many different types of electric pallet truck emerging in recent years. This category includes semi-electric machines that have electric drive and manual lift. This is such a broad category, especially at EP Equipment who manufacture electric pallet trucks to fit the needs of every customer.

Electric ride-on pallet trucks are an ideal option for transporting a load over a longer distance. With this style of pallet truck, the driver will experience less strain and heightened efficiency as he can drive the electric truck and its load to the intended destination. It is great for transporting loads across a large warehouse or for loading an HGV/lorry. The electric ride on trucks designed by EP Equipment have been made to suit a broad variety of operations, coming with either a foldable platform or a fixed platform. Those interested in investing in an electric ride-on truck for their warehouse or business site should remember that they require a driving licence to operate, and you may need to get the right kind of training and insurance for employees.

Hyster is a manufacturer of material handling equipment that prides itself on dependability and innovation. Hyster is one of the best-known names in the industry, offering a comprehensive range of equipment with the ideal type of truck for every application. Hyster designs, engineers and manufactures a wide range of products, operating in over 130 countries. As well as offering pedestrian powered pallet trucks and ride-on pallet trucks, Hyster stocks a variety of pallet trucks with a range of unique functions.

Compact and super compact pallet trucks offer a pedestrian powered pallet truck that can function effectively in congested and confined spaces. They are great for the internal transportation of closed and open pallets over short distances. With up to 1200kg capacity, these trucks are best suited to small to medium warehouse applications. The low effort controls mean that operator fatigue is reduced.

Shelf stocker pallet trucks are a style of pallet truck that offers extra lift. This style of truck is a pedestrian pallet truck that features supplementary lift, ideal for enabling the pallet to be positioned at the best working height to lift goods to and from the pallet. They are ideal for low-intensity order picking and low-level stock replenishment. These trucks are also well-suited to indoor transportation and unloading applications. Precise load positioning makes this style of pallet truck great for those who need assistance with multi-level shelves of heavy stock.

Platform and double platform pallet trucks have been specially designed to suit demanding warehouse and loading operations. These trucks come with a powerful AC motor to enhance performance and efficiency, made with the most proven reliable components. This style of truck comes with a typically low cost of operation, designed to optimise the process of loading and unloading and boosting transportation rates for both short and long distances. The double stacker range is constructed with welded fork construction that makes it ultra-resistant to torsion.

Heavy-duty pedestrian powered pallet trucks provide a longer shift life, lower costs and incredible reliability. These machines are an energy-efficient option, also offering one of the lowest lifetime costs in the market. These pallet trucks come with a powerful motor speed and a fast response, ensuring that operators can keep working hard through demanding operations. This pallet truck has been designed especially for intense indoor pallet transportation, vehicle loading and unloading. These pallet trucks have a capacity of 2500-3000kg.

Yale is one of the oldest and original manufacturers of lift trucks and warehouse equipment in the world, operating for over 137 years. Their products focus on making work more efficient for people and boosting productivity. Their unrivalled heritage in design and manufacturing has led to an impressive range of material handling equipment with a great emphasis on quality.

The Yale range of pallet trucks mainly focuses on electric, with many similar offerings to Hyster such as shelf stockers, rider pallet trucks, heavy-duty pedestrian powered trucks, platform pallet trucks, and compact as well as super compact pallet trucks. Yale’s pallet trucks boast several special features, such as angled grips and ‘butterfly’ controls that mean employees can exert minimal effort, reducing the stress often placed on the operator’s wrists, thumbs and fingers. Lower steps and cushioned seating helps reduce body vibration and fatigue. With Yale there is undeniably a priority placed on operator comfort and the productivity that it in turn promotes.

Which type of pallet truck is best suited to your business?

Before deciding on the right type of pallet truck for your warehouse or business site, it is first important to know the load carrier or weight that you will want to transport. Electric pallet trucks, in particular those from EP Equipment, range from 1000kg to 2000kg. Another important consideration is the length of your intended load, as pallet trucks can come with various fork lengths and fork widths.

The next consideration is how you intend to use the truck. Will it be used indoors on a flat surface, or outside on rough terrain?

Lastly, with electric pallet trucks, bear in mind the requirements of charging batteries. Many options of electric pallet truck do not require regular maintenance and can be charged opportunely. Charging times can vary from 2 hours to 8-10 hours, so bear this in mind and how it will fit into your typical operation schedules before purchasing.

The latest innovations and technologies in pallet trucks

For EP, Hyster and Yale there have been two main areas of innovation in pallet truck technology. These include driver environment and pioneering technology.

Driver environment has been improved over the years by all three companies in their pursuit of optimal operator ergonomics. The latest innovations and improvements provide truck operators with a more comfortable working environment, increased visibility and lower noise levels. Both Yale and Hyster have introduced anti-vibration isolators that reduce the vibrations and road shocks that travel through the wheels to the truck seat. The purpose of this is to minimise operator fatigue and increase the operator’s productivity. When it comes to operator visibility, Yale designs trucks with a ‘command’ driving position to ensure maximum visibility on the load and the operating area. Hyster has had an increased focus on weather protection technology in recent years, testing trucks in extreme conditions and temperatures, as well as offering bonus kits to increase operator comfort in tough conditions.

Pioneering technology has seen all three of these pallet truck manufacturers to give increased attention to reducing their emissions. All three work on designing trucks that not only meet the requirements of emission regulations but reduce fuel consumption too. Yale has made leaps with eco setting and load-sensing hydraulics that reduce fuel consumption. Hyster has made similar improvements, leading to improved fuel efficiency, enhanced productivity, faster engine response and cleaner, quieter operations with reduced CO2 emissions. EP has placed focus on lithium-ion batteries to lower emissions. Lithium-ion batteries may be initially more expensive; however, they have proven to be more durable than lead-acid options, lasting up to four times longer.

If you are looking for a pallet truck for your warehouse, please get in touch and we’d be happy to talk you through the best option for your business.

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Confidently and safely operating a forklift is a challenging thing to master, but throw in some bad winter weather and the task can become difficult and even dangerous. In the UK weather can turn for the worst very quickly, so it’s crucial that you are in complete control of your forklift to keep safe and avoid accidents.

Snow, ice, rain and strong winds can all affect not only your forklift’s performance but also the safety of the operator. It is very important that you not only safeguard your staff but also your expensive forklift fleet.

Here are some important things to consider about safely operating a forklift in the winter months:

Check the weather forecast regularly

It may seem like the obvious thing to do, but you need to know what the weather forecast is going to be before operating a forklift outdoors. If the weather looks too bad then safety must come first. It’s crucial that you are aware of what the weather will be like outside before you choose to operate a forklift as bad weather can happen very quickly and unexpectedly, so you can find yourself in trouble.

Think about the recent news of how devastating flash flooding can happen instantly, imagine trying to safely operate a forklift in such conditions!

Stay focused and alert at all times whilst using your forklift

If you are operating a forklift outdoors in winter, ice and snow could lead to a loss of control, so should be avoided as much as possible. Your hands should both remain on the wheel at all times and you should be constantly alert and ready to react to a sudden skid. Slippery surfaces provide reduced traction, so you will find yourself stopping and starting more often and suddenly losing control of your forklift.

Visibility can also be a problem in the winter; you should never operate your forklift if the visibility is bad and if you feel tired, as the combination of both can be very dangerous.

Do not forget to carry out safety checks and service your forklift

Safety checks should be the norm all year round, and, as winter weather can seriously affect your ability to operate your forklift safely, these checks should be done prior to every forklift operation.

Before you start the engine, check that everything is operating as it should: batteries, engine, electrics and hydraulics, as these are the most likely parts to be damaged by freezing temperatures or damp. Thoroughly inspect your tyres, checking the pressure and adjusting if necessary. If your tyres are over-inflated, they won’t grip very well on untreated surfaces, but if under-inflated they could go flat very quickly.

Finally, it’s important to check antifreeze levels and oil gauge, both of which are essential in preventing the engine from freezing up as the temperature drops.

Slow and steady does it

With ice and snow, you should always drive at low speeds to reduce the risk of skidding and losing control of the forklift. Tight deadlines can put forklift operators under pressure to perform quicker, but safety must always take priority over deadlines. Productivity may reduce because of snow or sleet, but if you rush you will not only injure yourself but you will damage the forklift which will cost you time and money to replace.

Forklifts are generally harder to handle than a car so, in treacherous weather, they can become very dangerous, therefore you should reduce your speed significantly if you want to stay safe.

Step by step winter-proofing your day

Warm up the forklift

In cold weather, you wouldn’t attempt to drive your car to work without giving the engine a chance to warm up, so the same goes for your forklift. Before you start working, turn the engine on and let it run for a few minutes to raise the temperature.

Trying to operate a forklift with a cold engine can cause all sorts of problems with the transmission and combustion, so it’s vital to give it some time to warm up while you ideally do the same with a hot drink.

Wear warm clothing

Whether you are using your forklift inside the warehouse or outdoors, clothing is very important. Generally, you would wear appropriate work clothes for the tasks, however, in winter you really need to focus on layering up. You should consider thick gloves, sturdy boots with warm socks (maybe even wearing two pairs), a warm hat and a warm jacket or heavy fleece, not forgetting to wear your high-vis jacket over it. It’s important to be wrapped up before you start, otherwise the cold can become a distraction and affect your judgement during forklift operation.

It is very quick to lose control of your forklift and have an accident when driving over ice patches, for example, so you must make sure you are wearing adequate clothing so the cold will not distract you and you can remain focused at all times.

Five safety tips to help your business prepare for winter, be prepared and vigilant and stay safe no matter what weather conditions you may encounter.

These tips will help owners and operators to keep their forklifts operating in perfect condition, minimising downtime and maximising safety.

– Make sure your forklift operators wear appropriate clothing

Crucial for the safety of operators and machinery

– Warm-up your forklift engine before operating

This simple tip can help you get ready for a productive day without the risk of damaging your machinery

– Ensure the anti-freeze is topped up

Anti-freeze is excellent at ensuring the engine coolant will not completely freeze and stop the forklift in its tracks. Make sure it’s topped up.

– Ensure the forklift is in perfect operating condition

Check all of the safety lights are working, replacing any bulbs if needed, especially in low visibility conditions. If operating in snow or ice, you can install forklift chains for extra grip. Ensure all electronics covers are closed to prevent snow, ice and water getting into the components risking electrocution.

– Operate the forklift according to the conditions

Slow down and drive carefully as it’s a lot easier to lose control on snow and ice. Be visible at all times with safety lights and beacons, as well as appropriate high visibility clothes.

Are you ready for Christmas?

Any warehouse equipment including forklift trucks, pallet trucks and staff will be highly sought after in the weeks leading up to the busy Christmas season, but by following our advice you’ll be able to keep up with the Christmas rush and keep your warehouse, staff and machinery safe.

– Stock up on hired equipment

In winter, there is normally an increase in hired forklifts and warehouse equipment to help businesses manage the demand in productivity. So, it’s essential that, as a business, you assess early what you are likely to need and book your hired forklifts early, to ensure you can meet the increased seasonal business.

– Brief and refresh your workforce

Consider early refresher courses for your staff, especially if they have not used the equipment or operated machinery for a period of time. It is not required by law, but keeping your workers’ skills sharp can definitely reduce accidents.

– Get ready for any winter weather

Christmas time is not only busy when it comes to increased productivity, but it is also a busy time for accidents so, if you have an accident due to the weather, you may be waiting a long time for emergency or repair services to reach you, especially in the snow. It may be a good idea to hire attachments for your vehicles to move snow, or if you have a large outdoor yard, you may need to invest in leasing a snowplough, or at the very least you will need plenty of grit and snow shovels. Make sure you have plenty of grit stored, don’t wait until it snows to stock up, or you may not be able to find any for sale.

– Train your seasonal staff well

Increased pressure at work can lead to mistakes as staff, especially temporary seasonal staff, can cut corners and rush to get their work done. This can be very dangerous in warehouse environments as a mistake could lead to a serious accident.

Seasonal Christmas staff are a great idea, not only to increase productivity and meet demand but also to support your permanent staff, to prevent them from becoming frustrated, tired and overworked, which can also lead to accidents when operating forklifts.

Make sure you only hire qualified staff or train them well so they can operate machinery safely. Make sure they are supplied with the correct PPE and are informed of your company-specific health and safety policy, keeping all paperwork handy for inspection.

– Risk assess your business for winter

With increased seasonal activity in your warehouse, you can also expect an increased level of risk in your work environment, so it is a good idea to carry out a review of your risk assessments and tailor them to the increased activity level. Factor in all the new variables like extra machinery, stock and staff, and implement safety precautions to ensure your busy season runs smoothly.

Depending on what type of forklift you use, you may also need to arrange for servicing and maintenance well ahead of the Christmas rush, to ensure any machine faults are spotted and put right before your staff get too busy.

These recommendations will not just keep your staff and machinery safe, they will also help you to confidently meet your increased customer demand.

Keeping your forklifts in top condition will not only ensure you meet the legal safety requirements; it will also save you a lot of money having to replace costly machinery. If you are looking for forklift hire or maintenance this winter then get in touch!

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Hako we have a wide range of Pedestrian Sweepers and Ride On Scrubber Dryers. Available in a range of different sizes and for different needs, these machines are suitable for many types of business, and for both indoor and outside use. We will take a close look at pedestrian sweepers and ride-on scrubber drivers to explain how they can help you and your business.

Pedestrian Sweepers

A pedestrian sweeper is sometimes referred to as a ‘walk behind sweeper’, as the operator pushes the sweeper along its chosen path. In simplistic terms, it is the easy-to-use alternative to hiring a cleaner to use a broom and shovel to sweep and clean the floor. These machines are designed to sweep the ground and to collect and then store any dust and debris. Pedestrian sweepers are suitable for both the industrial and commercial sectors. They also come in a range of sizes from compact to large and with a choice of petrol-fuelled motors or battery controlled. Some also have a powered drive to make them even easier to use. Below we will explore the vast range of pedestrian sweepers that are available from Hako, the similarities and differences in the range, plus their features and which businesses or services would benefit from using them.

Common features found in the Hako pedestrian sweepers range

User comfort

Hako pedestrian sweepers have all been built with user safety and comfort at their heart. All of these pedestrian sweepers are user-friendly while integrating a simple operation. User comfort is achieved with the use of an ergonomically shaped, easy-to-grip handle that can be adapted for every user, so no more stooping over the machine and hurting your back. The pedestrian sweeper adapts itself to your height.

Easy to operate

All the machines are also easy to push because they are made from lightweight yet sturdy materials. The Sweepmaster M650 is the smallest pedestrian sweeper and is the only manual option. But, this it is just as easy to push along as the Sweepmaster 800 which is the largest battery or petrol operated sweeper. All motorised options also come with an onboard charger, making them quick and easy to charge up between sweeps.

Non-corrosive body

Each machine is constructed from robust aluminium and a steel frame that is non-corrosive, making the sweeper suitable for all weather conditions. The sweeper is further protected by a shock-resistant plastic frame.

Easy to remove hopper

The hopper in each machine is very easy to remove and empty, leaving very little downtime. You’ll know the hopper is full by the on-screen digital display.

What are the differences?

Manual, battery or petrol

There is a choice between manual and motorised pedestrian sweepers that are either battery or petrol operated. The M60 model is the only manual option, while the 650 and 800 models are available as a petrol or battery-operated model. Which sweeper you choose very much depends upon your working environment and the size of ground that needs to be swept. For example, the Sweepmaster 800 petrol motor would be suitable for large and well-ventilated warehouses, but not for a shop floor.

Range of sizes

You are able to choose the right sweeper for your business needs because they range from compact to large. The Sweepmaster 650 is suitable for small to medium-sized floors, while for narrow hallways and compact spaces, the M600 may be more suitable. All of the pedestrian sweepers have large and robust wheels to navigate changes in height and navigating kerbs, carparks and yards.

Range of applications

The Hako pedestrian sweepers can be used in a variety of environments by many different businesses. These include shop floors, shopping centres, warehouses, factories, offices and in the hospitality industries, such as hotels, bars and gymnasiums.

The Sweepmaster B500 is a great all-rounder as it can be used on both hard and soft flooring. This is highly advantageous when moving from hardwood to carpeted floors, such as in a hotel. The Sweepmaster 650 is well suited for cleaning soft flooring as it comes with an additional carpet cleaning kit. This makes it highly suitable for use in large industrial cleans, where you mainly clean carpets, and on a huge scale. It also comes with a large dust filter. When you need to clean large warehouses or factory floors, then the Sweepmaster 800 is your best option. When you mainly need to sweep narrow corridors, such as in an office building, then the M600 is the ideal pedestrian sweeper for you.

Ride On Scrubber Dryers

As the name suggests, these machines scrub the floor clean using powerful jets of water and cleaning solution that are stored in onboard tanks. Then the powerful suction collects all the dirty water. Ranging from a small compact ride-on scrubber dryer that is slightly larger than a push along machine, all the way through to large industrial machines that are suitable for large commercial premises and car parks.

The ride-on scrubber dryer obviously has many advantages to combining these two tasks that are usually done by hand. The fact that these two tasks can be done more quickly and thoroughly is a huge incentive. They are incredibly time-efficient and coupled with this is that the ride on machines are incredibly cost-effective. This is because these cleaning machines are robust, stand the test of time and get the job done. For example, the Scrubmaster B175R comes with a recovery tank. They are able to clean wide, open spaces and keep the operator safe and comfortable at the same time.

What are the similarities in this range?

Although these ride-on machines differ in size and with varying functions and add ons, they do have many similarities.

Easy to drive

All of the Hako range is very easy to drive and manoeuvre. The maximum speed of each machine is achieved with the use of a single button control. It is advised that you undertake basic training before using these machines, to ensure that they are used correctly and to their maximum potential. They are able to drive effortlessly on different terrains due to their large, easy to grip tyres.

User safety and comfort

User safety is paramount with every Hako ride-on scrubber dryer. Safety measures are built into every machine. This is shown in the Scrubmaster B75R as it comes with the use of a headlight, ensuring it can be used safely in dimly lit areas. Each machine is also incredibly robust and stable when manoeuvring tight corners or turning in a circle, keeping the driver safe at all times. Comfort is also a priority, with ergonomically designed seats that encourage good posture and ease of movement.

Warning lights

The ride-on scrubber dryer comes with useful features such as warning lights to let you know when the water level is low and needs to be topped up. Some models, such as the Scrubmaster B120R, also show warning lights when the brushes and pads need to be replaced.

What are the differences?

Each machine comes with its own unique benefits and user-friendly features to suit your working environment.

Difference in size – Compact to industrial

Choose your ride-on scrubber and dryer according to where you wish to clean. They come in a range of sizes from compact to industrial-sized machines. One of the bigger machines, the Scrubmaster B175R, also comes in a choice of three widths, so that you can choose a machine with wider coverage for areas such as large and open spaces in a car park that would take longer to clean with a smaller and thinner machine.

Cleaning on an incline

Surfaces are not always even, and if you need to clean flooring that is on an incline, then you need a machine that can cope safely and efficiently with this type of terrain. The Scrubmaster B175R can cope easily with inclines of up to fifteen percent. This makes it ideal for cleaning sloping paths, driveways and multi-storey car parks.

Pre sweep before scrubbing

If you want a machine that sweeps the floor before it scrubs and washes, then go for the Scrubmaster B310R as it does this for you. It sweeps and collects dust and debris in the easy-to-remove hopper, before continuing to scrub the floor clean and then drying it. This is a good all-rounder for large industrial floors.

Energy-saving function

When using a large ride-on scrubber, it obviously uses a lot of power and water while scrubbing and cleaning the floor. This means that they cost a lot more to operate than a smaller machine. Luckily, the Scrubmaster B310R comes with an energy-saving function, meaning that when the machine is stationary, the water stops, as do the brushes.

Range of applications

The ride-on scrubber dryer range from Hako is an incredibly versatile group of machines that can be used in a variety of places and for differing business needs.

The Scrubmaster B75R is the smallest ride-on scrubber dryer and is best used in narrow and confined spaces, such as small yards, narrow streets or outdoor patio areas. Larger and more industrial scrubber dryer machines such as the Scrubmaster B310R is the ideal machine for cleaning large factories or multi-story car parks. If you need to clean ground that is uneven or has an incline, then the Scrubmaster B175R is the ride on you should choose.

To learn more about the fantastic range of Hako pedestrian sweepers and ride-on scrubber driers to help your business, then please do browse our website. If you have any questions then please don’t hesitate to contact us.

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Forklift trucks are the most popular machine for moving materials and goods; however, they are involved in a large number of goods transport accidents when used without appropriate training. Injuries or, even worse, deaths caused by inadequate training can ruin lives and businesses. Even near misses or small accidents can still mean costly damage to forklift trucks, buildings, fittings and goods.

Who is responsible for forklift truck training?

– Employers and those responsible for the safe operation of forklift trucks
– Warehouse managers and supervisors and the self-employed
– Anyone tasked with stacking or transporting goods by forklift between sites

Employers are required to provide the opportunity for basic training and testing for all lift-truck operators they employ. Forklifts operators who are properly trained are vital in reducing the risk of forklift accidents in your workplace. An ‘operator’ is anyone who operates a forklift truck, even as a secondary or occasional part of their job role.

What are the requirements by law?

PUWER, the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998, requires certain requirements from employers. All employees, who carry out their work using any machinery or equipment, must have undertaken adequate training in the following:

– Correct and safe use of any relevant equipment;
– Understand how to risks assess its use;
– Any necessary precautions to take in order to operate safely.

Not only your employees must be trained but a record must be kept to ensure their training is up to date, otherwise, refresher training must be booked.

Even if you are self-employed, you must be able to provide evidence that your training is up to date and relevant.

What is involved in the training?

Operator training should always include three stages:

– Basic training.
– Specific job-tailored training.
– Familiarisation training.

Basic Training

Basic training generally covers all the information needed to safely operate the type of forklift truck and handling attachments the trainee is required to use in their workplace, including awareness of the risks involved in lift-truck operations. It is the perfect environment to learn how to operate the trucks without the added pressure of production.

Trainers continuously assess a trainee’s progress to ensure they are on track to receive the right training standards. At the end of the training, the trainee should pass a test, or tests, to demonstrate that they have the necessary practical and theoretical knowledge and skills to operate forklift trucks safely.

After basic training, the trainee should be able to do the following:

– Learn the location of all the forklift controls and attachment and how to use them. Operate the forks, and any other attachment, using the correct controls for the desired result.

– Manage different types of load in order to correctly and safely stack, de-stack and separate, assessing the weight and the load centre of a load to ensure it is within the truck’s actual capacity.

– Learn to spot what can affect the stability of the forklift, including turning with sharpness and smoothness of operation even at speed; load security and integrity and ground conditions and type.

– Employ the correct Health & Safety procedures when loading and unloading vehicles.

– Learn the vital importance of making visual checks to ascertain the safety, soundness and rating of structures designed to receive loads, especially at various heights.

– Accurately pick up and place any type of load, driving the forklift forwards and backwards, as well as other more complex manoeuvres, load and unload various loads in different circumstances like on ramps or restricted spaces and on level ground including different types of smooth and rough flooring, in accordance with safety procedures.

– Once forklift operation is at an end, how to safely and securely park the forklift, demonstrating awareness on how to use relevant safety devices like stabilisers, level and load indicators, and the importance of using seat restraints.

– How to inspect and carry out maintenance to the forklift, as required by the machine manufacturers and any relevant legislation, as well as procedural pre-lift checks. State what to do in an emergency while in control of a forklift truck, for example, if there is a tip over, and why it is essential to have a vehicle key custody arrangement in place.

Specific job training

This type of training normally follows the completion of basic training, but can be delivered together depending on your particular needs and include, where appropriate:

– Understanding of the controls of the forklift truck to be used, including the handling of attachments and loads specific to the job.

– How to routinely inspect and service that particular truck, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and company procedures.

– Specific training in the use of the forklift in loading bays; racking and lifting; automatic doors; confined areas; cold stores; slopes; rough terrain handling; loading platforms; other vehicles and bad weather, including instruction on site rules, for example, site layout, one-way systems and speed limits.

– Appropriate escalation processes in an emergency; the use of job appropriate protective clothing as well as specific devices, like operator restraints, goggles and noise-reducing ear protection; how to adapt to operating the forklift near excavations and overhead lines and other hazards.

– Training in the work to be carried out, for example loading the relevant forklift with loads which are normally found at that workplace, with the truck fitted with working platforms.

– Operational safety and the need for custody arrangements for keys.

Familiarisation training

This type of on the job learning is the final stage of forklift training, carried out onsite, under constant supervision, by a trainer or operative with the relative knowledge. It is extremely useful as it puts into practice everything that has been learned during basic and specific training.

This could include:

– Confidently showcase the skills already learned in basic and specific training, starting with simple tasks and moving on to more complex ones, under the pressure of working conditions.

– Applying all learning to the specific lift-truck activities of the employer.

– Demonstrating confidence in operating the forklift within the site layout, access to local emergency procedures and any other feature of the work which it is not practicable to teach in the classroom environment.

Basic Training Certificate

While there is no requirement to issue these certificates, they do provide crucial evidence that employees have attended the training and received an appropriate level of operating ability. The employee will need evidence of training if they change jobs as there is no such thing as a lift-truck ‘licence’.

On-going training and why it is useful

Machinery and technology are constantly evolving, so forklift operators should remain up to date with training legal requirements as some can become complacent and develop bad health and safety habits.

By booking refresher courses at agreed intervals, all employees operating forklift trucks within your company will be compliant at all times.

The role of training in H&S, compliance and risk assessing

The Health & Safety at Work Act of 1974 requires employers to provide any training or supervision to ensure the safety of their employees in the workplace is not compromised.

The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 also focuses on situations where health and safety training is particularly important, for example when employees first start in employment or are exposed to new or increased risks as well as in need of refreshing their skills and knowledge.

As an employer, you may not be in a position to provide this training yourself so you must make arrangement for someone else to provide the necessary training.

This is where Hiremech can help you!

At Hiremech we are proud of the twenty years’ experience with all types of forklift trucks and the comprehensive driver-training package we can provide.

What do our training packages include?

– Forklift driver training delivered by industry accredited trainers
– Training in your workplace or at our training centre which is purposely built and equipped
– Compliance with Health & Safety legislation requirements
– Theory & practical assessments
– Choice of Counterbalance forklift training, from reach forklift, Flexi and powered pallet trucks to stackers and many other featured machinery training

We provide you with two location options for your driver training, it can either take place on-site at your work premises or at our purpose-built training centre. If you wish to have training delivered at your workplace, our qualified driving trainers can be booked to visit by appointment. Your equipment will be used during the training process.

Hiremech’s excellent training centre is set up with any equipment necessary including the adequate number of staff to ensure that the number of employees attending the training course receive quality training.

Why chose Hiremech for your training?

We have more than 20 years’ experience in forklift trucks and training and have collaborated with hundreds of different companies. Because we are so experienced in forklifts, we are the ideal choice to train your workforce. The quality of learning and pass rate is second to none so you can rest assured your business is in great hands at Hiremech.

How to book forklift training with Hiremech

Our customer testimonials speak for themselves and highlighting the excellent quality of the training you will receive from Hiremech, so do not hesitate to call our sales team today!

Our excellent sales team will guide you through an assessment of the type of forklift trucks you use and your employees’ levels of ability. This will help to determine the most appropriate driving course for each of your employees so you can get learning that is specifically tailored to your needs.

Ensure you are compliant with legal requirements by booking the required forklift training today and be reassured you will be fully compliant and your workforce will be trained up to deliver much-improved productivity for your business.

To make an enquiry please call us on 020 8880 3322 or email: sales@hiremech.co.uk and we will guide you through your options.

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At Hiremech, we know how important your forklifts are to you – they’re the lifeblood that keeps your operation running all year round. As with any machine, particularly one that you rely on, proper ongoing maintenance is an essential consideration.

You should already have a general maintenance program that applies all year round – but what are the specific seasonal maintenance considerations you should be making to keep your forklift/fleet running reliably?

Summer is basically upon us – so here’s your handy Hiremech summer forklift maintenance guide to make sure you’re properly prepared.

Checking the batteries

Without the battery operating at peak efficiency, your forklift is largely useless – so battery checks should be a part of your daily ongoing maintenance routine. But what about during the summer? What should you be particularly vigilant for?

In summer, the rising heat levels can cause an increase in a forklift battery’s likelihood for corrosion, especially if the battery is already mid-way or further through its service life. Low fluid levels are also a concern, due to the heat causing the battery fluid to begin to evaporate.

During summer, a part of your everyday battery checks should be to keep a note of the water levels in the battery cells. If the levels are low, top them up with water – first checking it is the correct pH. If fluid loss is consistent, you might want to consider replacing the battery for peace of mind.

Checking the oil

Checking your forklift’s oil is, again, an everyday maintenance check that is especially important during the summer. In summer, oil is at risk of overheating in through the pipework of your forklift, which can make your forklift be unreliable and unresponsive.

Heat is also a consideration for oil lines, which can crack and split under the pressure of the increased heat levels from the summer sun. This can lead to oil leaks, which make for a very unsafe working environment, as well as a forklift that you can’t rely on.

Make sure to check oil levels every day – ideally before the forklift is used and after it has been put away for the day. If your forklift is in constant use, the oil should be checked with every shift change.

Cooling is king

As with all vehicles, forklifts can be prone to overheating in the warm weather. The lack of relative breeze makes it difficult to get the necessary airflow through the engine. When the engine is starved of airflow, it can begin to operate sluggishly and might become prone to stalling.

There’s not much you can do to make the weather more breezy, but you should make sure your forklift’s radiator is in the best condition possible. Check every day for any cracks or damage that might hamper its efficiency, and be sure to check regularly for any debris blocking it – which should be removed immediately.

Cooling fans are also essential to prevent the forklift’s engine from overheating, so be sure to regularly check any belts and fans for signs of wear or damage. Any cracks, holes, fraying, or splitting should be reported immediately and repaired as soon as possible, to prevent failure which can lead to engine damage.

The damage of dust

During warm weather, dust becomes a serious consideration – particularly around logistics centres, warehouses, and factories, where forklifts are used most. Pallets being moved, dust being kicked up off the ground, and general air pollution become a concern during the warmer months.

When it rains, it serves to purify the air of this dust and other particulates. When it’s dry, they have free reign to clog up your forklift’s vents, pipes, and controls. Check regularly for signs of dust ingress, which might take the form of a choking engine or suddenly unreliable electrics.

Dust and grime are also much more likely to stick when it’s dry, so make sure your forklifts have the benefit of a regular washing to keep them as clean as possible. This isn’t just to make them look better, but to help aid visibility as much as possible.

Checking the tyres

Tyres are an essential maintenance checklist item all year round – and they should be checked as regularly as possible. Summer, however, presents some specific challenges for a forklift’s tyres. The excess heat can cause the rubber to become relatively brittle, especially if it’s cooling down overnight.

In time this can lead to fraying, splitting, and general tyre degradation – tyre damage is a serious concern as it can affect the handling of the forklift and potentially cause further damage. Tyres have a degree of allowance engineered into them to handle wear, however, you should be mindful to check them.

You may find that tyres wear much faster during the summer months. It might be worth considering changing the type of tyre you use on your forklift, to one that is better designed to cope with the temperature changes that summer can provide.

Checking the brakes

As with all things during summer, brakes can be prone to overheating when the temperature is excessive. Check your brakes as regularly as possible for any signs of excess wear, fade, or damage. Brakes that don’t operate efficiently are, naturally, a considerable safety hazard.

Brakes can also be prone to collecting an excessive amount of dust and grime in the warmer weather. The solution to this is to regularly check your forklift’s brake fluid, and keep it topped up as necessary. Also, regularly washing the forklift will help remove any accumulated grime which may harm braking efficiency.

What about electric forklifts?

Electric forklifts are rising in popularity, but what are the considerations you need to make during the summer?

Compared to traditional forklifts, electric forklifts are much simpler so you’re not going to have to worry about complicated engine management and mechanical parts failing to the same degree. So, what are your priorities?

Batteries

The primary consideration you’ll need to make with an electric forklift is to make sure that the battery is operating at the correct temperature. Batteries usually operate more efficiently in warmer weather, however hard work during an especially sunny day can put the battery under excess strain.

When a battery gets too hot, the first sign is it becoming less efficient. You will likely notice your battery providing you less range than you’re used to. As a battery continues to overheat, it becomes prone to become irreparably damaged – at which point the only option is replacement.

If you leave a battery to consistently overheat, there are even more risks that you’re running. The first is that the battery might begin to leak, which can cause damage to the rest of your forklift and the battery compartment. A battery that overheats to a high enough degree can also become volatile – so check it consistently.

To keep the battery as protected as possible, ensure it’s not exposed to the direct heat of the sun and that dust and particulates can’t easily find their way to it. Your forklift should have a closable battery compartment, if it doesn’t, it’s worth investing in a way to protect it, such as a cover.

Tyres and brakes

While an electric forklift doesn’t share the mechanical complexity of a traditional forklift, it does still have the same tyres and the same brakes to consider. Heat can cause both of these to become less efficient and prone to damage over time, so it’s highly important to check them on a regular basis.

Operators should be performing visual tyre checks at the start of every shift and the end of every shift, at a minimum, with a more involved tyre check at the workshop advisable bi-weekly at least. Brakes should be consistently monitored, and any fade, juddering or pulling reported and rectified immediately.

Checking for rust

Rust can be an issue for forklifts during the summer months – as Britain isn’t a totally dry climate, forklifts are still prone to getting wet, either from summer showers or morning dew if they’re left outside.

The issue is that when a still-wet forklift is exposed to the summer sun, it can hasten the corrosion process. It might be worth thinking about having your forklift rust-proofed – if not just for summer then as a general precaution to lengthen the useful service life.

Check for any bubbling corrosion around wheel arches, body panels, and anywhere that metal meets such as on the fork mechanism. Catching the signs of rust early can make it much easier to treat – if corrosion is left it will consume the whole forklift in time.

The human element

Remember your forklift operators in the summer months – whether you have a fleet of operators, or you’re an owner-operator yourself.

Remember to take regular breaks if you’re working in the direct sunshine, always have water available and drink throughout the course of the shift. Be mindful of glare and carry appropriate eye protection – forklifts are usually exposed, so protect any skin with sun cream to prevent burns.

Sudden summer showers can make the ground exceptionally slippery very quickly, so always be mindful to slow right down and pay extra attention when manoeuvring.

Contact Hiremech for help

If you need any more help, advice, or guidance about how to best keep your forklift or forklift fleet operational through the summer or any other season for that matter, then don’t hesitate to contact us.

At Hiremech we have unparalleled experience in all things forklifts – we can help you keep on the right track and ensure your forklift is as reliable as possible. Our friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable team is always on hand to help you with any advice or direction required.

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Do you have a warehouse as part of your business? How do you feel about the current way it is used and run? Do you think you are getting maximum use out of the space and are you able to find and retrieve pallets quickly and easily?

If you have asked yourself these questions and find yourself doubting the efficiency of your warehouse as a result, it might be time to consider hiring or buying a reach truck.

Particularly if the aisles in your warehouse are relatively small and close together, reach trucks can be your answer to quicker storage and retrieval operations, therefore allowing you to spend much more time on activities which add value, growth and progression to your business.

What are reach trucks?

Reach trucks are a type of forklift used specifically to reach items in a space with narrow aisles and often with high shelves. The most common places you will find them are in warehouses, where shelves are stacked high above our heads yet there isn’t much room to move around between racks.

Unlike a counterbalance truck, another type of forklift, these trucks can reach points that are usually impossible for other types of truck to get to.

Reach forklifts might look like balance would be a challenge for them, with their relatively small bodies yet the ability for the forks to stretch high into the sky, but actually this is not the case. The way they are designed, with their two outer legs to distribute the load and a small set of wheels at the rear, really helps with their balancing capabilities.

As the wheels are fixed on right below where the operator stands, the vehicle has a very tight turn radius, enabling it to move easily into smaller spaces where other trucks may not be able to go, yet still successfully reach high up places.

Essentially reach trucks are designed for people to use in warehouses due to their ideal combination of a maximum height on the lift and full freedom in terms of manoeuvrability.

How are reach trucks designed?

Reach trucks have a far more compact body than the usual counter-balance forklift you might see, even though the former’s wheel base length is usually the same as the latter’s. This is for the purpose already mentioned of being able to fit into tiny spaces.

Interestingly, the space for the operator actually varies depending on world geography. In North America, the operator stands up to use the truck, while in Europe the driver sits down sideways.

The reach truck has two outer legs in order to spread the load weight, and they may have one or two wheels per leg depending on the specific design.

How do reach trucks operate?

When ready to lift and transport a load, the operator will move the load backwards within the wheelbase. This is so as little of the load is sticking out as is possible, hence why reach trucks can operate in small spaces without knocking anything off the shelves.

Cleverly designed, the reach truck makes use of a scissor mechanism known as a pantograph, which means the forks and loads can extend forwards. So the operator will use this feature to reach in to shelving and racking.

The reach truck works by turning at a right angle so they can get up against the racking before reaching in to grab the needed pallet.

What are reach trucks used for?

Reach trucks are used predominantly in warehouses of all shapes and sizes. Most warehouses with narrow aisles would not have the space to fit and use any other type of forklift successfully, hence the need to invent the reach truck.

They really can squeeze themselves into tiny spaces. Their design allows them to operate in aisles less than around 2.5 metres wide, for instance.

With their design focus on stability and manoeuvrability, reach fork trucks can easily lift up to 2,500kg at any one time.

Even if they have a common use, this does not mean reach trucks can’t be used in other circumstances.

They can be operated outside, for example, except for when it’s raining. Unfortunately, because the machine is battery or electric powered, they cannot get wet.

Reach trucks could be used for the same sort of job as you might use a counter-balance forklift. The vehicle could also be fitted with extra attachments for specific lifting jobs.

Why are reach trucks useful?

1. They can reach into far places

As the name suggests, these trucks can reach their fork carriage way beyond the stabilising legs, therefore allowing them to reach much further into the shelving or racking.

2. They work successfully in tight spaces

Most warehouses are packed to the brim so that the space paid for is used efficiently and value for money is maintained. The only time this can become problematic is when needing to retrieve a pallet stored high up or deep in the racking.

This is why reach trucks were invented. They can retrieve these tucked away items with their ability to operate in extremely tight environments while often being able to lift over nine metres because of their stabilising legs.

3. Counterbalance weights aren’t necessary

Contrary to what you might believe, these forklifts do not need any counterbalance weights because their stabilising legs are designed with such precision.

How can they make your warehouse more efficient?

While there are other situations where you may find a reach truck useful, their design really does fit perfectly for situations where you have a high density of storage and need to both place and retrieve goods quickly. Aka a warehouse.

Some might say how on earth does the operator see what they are doing if they are trying to reach a pallet nine metres above them in the centre of a rack?

It’s a problem easily fixed. Reach trucks can be fitted with cameras attached to the fork carriage. These cameras transmit signals to a screen which the operator can see, therefore assisting them in picking up the right item.

So all in all, reach trucks are a fantastic way of enabling you to use maximum space in your warehouse while still being able to store away and then find whatever you need quickly.

The benefits of reach trucks

You might now be thinking about the situations in which you might make use of a reach truck, but what about the specific benefits of having your own?

1. They solve a problem

The most obvious benefit of a reach truck, but still worth mentioning, is their ability to stretch up to nine metres to retrieve items. Their reach capability is better than any other forklift.

2. They are cheap

Thinking from a business perspective, reach trucks work extremely efficiently. They do not need a lot of fuel to run. They are also designed to operate with high efficiency and low maintenance costs.

This means after your initial investment in the vehicle, there will only be a minimal cost associated with running your reach truck.

3. They are easy to operate

Similarly to their electric truck cousins, reach trucks are very easy to operate and to run.

They are designed with a side-seated operator position which gives the operator more visibility of the fork tips when carrying out their job.

4. They are quiet

Keen not to buy a forklift which creates even more noise disruption in your warehouse? CAT reach trucks include mast technology, meaning they are really quiet to use and shouldn’t result in any noise complaints, no matter where your warehouse is located.

5. They allow for more storage

A wider benefit of deciding to hire a reach truck is your newfound ability to increase your rack storage in your warehouse.

Even if you are putting some money into your new truck, you will make that back by being able to get even better value for your money in your warehouse.

Do you need a licence to drive a reach truck?

Like any other forklift, you do not need a driving licence to operate a reach truck. However, any driver must have the right training and certification to operate one safely.

Anyone wanting to operate a reach truck should seek an accredited course from recognised institutions like RTITB, AITT, ALLMI and ITSAAR.

Users will need to choose the right certification for their forklift since each one operates and works differently.

It is unlikely with a reach truck, but in the eventuality you were going to drive it on a public road, even for a very short stretch, further training would be needed.

Any employer must take the responsibility of organising this certification and training before any of their employees start operating a reach truck, or any other forklift for that matter.

Choosing the right reach truck from Hiremech

Maybe you’re at the point in your decision-making process where you definitely want to have a reach truck to use in your warehouse, but now must decide which one to go for.

CAT reach trucks are known as the industry leader for their incredible range of innovative features. This includes, in particular, the steering travel compensation, which essentially adjusts steering sensitivity automatically. It works in relation to speed of travel so that sharp turns and accidents in the truck are avoided.

If you feel confident that you have now chosen your reach truck, but also have a need for other types of forklifts, then make sure you consider all of your options.

Gas forklifts, electric forklifts, diesel forklifts, pallet trucks, and flexi trucks all serve different uses and solve a range of problems you might be facing.

Get in touch, we’d be happy to talk to you about reach trucks, or any of your other forklift needs.

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A forklift is an essential piece of equipment for many businesses, and it can be difficult to know whether to lease or purchase. Not all leasing options are the same, however, nor are they all suitable for every business.

So let’s discuss some of the most common leasing options available, in order for you to determine what’s going to be the best choice for you.

Long term casual hire

This is a more relaxed way of hiring a forklift – in many cases, you won’t even need to sign a contract. Generally, casual hire is most practical over a six-plus month period.

Casual hire will usually encompass all of your maintenance and service costs over the course of the period you have the forklift. This means keeping the forklift working reliably isn’t going to be an extra expense you need to factor into your finances. Often there will be some sort of provision for breakdown cover as well – though what is covered and the circumstances damage will be repaired is dependant on your forklift supplier, so make sure you ask.

Often there will be exclusions for customer damage, as well as “consumable” items such as replacement forks, tyres, and windscreens (where applicable).

The benefits

The primary benefit is, of course, that you’re not tied into any sort of contract. You can often have a notice period to terminate of just one month. This makes it a particularly good choice for newer businesses still finding their feet, or businesses that don’t have a consistent need for a forklift.

You can also change your forklift relatively easily. You might need to do this if the requirements you have for the forklift change. Many forklifts are designed to be optimised for certain tasks, so a more efficient machine may be waiting for you if your circumstances change – for example, the need to be able to load/unload heavier weight.

Access to ongoing support is another clear benefit to consider. Often forklifts need to be running constantly in order to fulfil orders and load/unload efficiently. If yours should happen to stop working for any reason, you’ll be able to contact the support team. They will be able to ensure your business stays operational while the forklift is repaired.

Also, your annual services are covered by your payments – so you won’t need to think about the cost of keeping the forklift working reliably. Consumables are usually not covered, so costs such as fuel and tyres will still need to be accounted for. Those services will be scheduled on your behalf, so you don’t have to worry about missing them.

The drawbacks

You may find that you’ll get better rates with other forms of leasing. The reason for this is that as there is no contract and very little notice period, it’s considered more of a liability. As with all things, that means the cost has to go up. You might consider this an acceptable investment for improved convenience, but it’s something to consider.

You also probably won’t get a brand new forklift via long term casual hire. Newer machines are usually earmarked for more rigid contracts. The forklift you get will be serviced thoroughly and comprehensively checked to make sure it’s fit for purpose before you take delivery, just know it’s likely to be used.

Lease purchase

Lease purchase involves you ultimately purchasing the forklift, however, you’re paying for it in instalments. It’s important to be aware from the outset, that if you choose the lease purchase option that you’ll not benefit from any maintenance or servicing cover of any kind as a part of the package – so the running costs are all on you.

Lease purchase is not going to be the right option for everyone, however, if you want to actually own the forklift without needing to pay the whole cost up front, it may be your best option.

The positives

Lease purchase can offer you much more favourable rates of repayment compared to other forms of leasing. The reason for this is when you lease purchase, you’re paying for the forklift itself and nothing else. There’s no ongoing maintenance or repair work to cover, so the monthly price will just be the forklift and interest.

You also get a much wider selection of options as to the forklift you want. Whether it’s brand new or slightly used, the choice is yours. You can easily spread the cost of purchasing it over a time period that suits you – generally anywhere from three to seven years. This means it’s more accessible for smaller businesses as a path to forklift ownership.

And, of course, you get to own the forklift at the end of your repayment term. When you make your final payment, the forklift will be officially yours and you can do with it what you please. If you take care of the forklift well, for the rest of the forklift’s usable life you’ll only have to consider ongoing maintenance, fuel, and consumables.

The drawbacks

Lease purchase will not cover any maintenances, servicing, or breakdown cover. You can generally purchase warranties and additional breakdown cover, but they’ll be extra costs for you rather than included as a part of your lease payment. You’re paying for the forklift and nothing more – so if it’s costly to maintain, you’ll be liable for those bills.

You’ll also be committed to your contract, so think long and hard before taking out a lease on a forklift. Think about if you’re going to be able to comfortably manage the repayments over the course of the lease term. If you fall behind, the vehicle will almost certainly be repossessed and you could end up with a negative credit rating for your business.

You’re also choosing one forklift per lease, so make sure you choose wisely. That forklift is then the one you have until the period of the lease is up and the machine is paid for. If your needs change and your forklift no longer matches them for any reason, there’s nothing you can do about it other than take out a fresh lease.

It’s also important to remember that you’ll be subject to approval. So, terms and conditions will apply and you will have to be able to comply with all the pre-requirements for approval. You’ll need a good financial history, and be able to provide proof of consistent financial buoyancy over a period of time – this makes it an impractical option for new businesses.

Contract hire

Contract hire can be thought of as a bridge between hiring and lease purchase. There is a more concrete contract drawn up, which you’ll be bound to, however, at the end of the contract’s term, you will not own the forklift. This has both its advantages and its disadvantages, depending on your requirements.

Maintenance, servicing, and breakdowns will generally be provided for as a part of your contract payments. The same exceptions will likely apply as long term casual hire, however – customer damage and consumables such as tyres, forks, and windscreens if they’re fitted.

The advantages

Firstly you’ll be able to get access to very generous rates, because you’re entering a secured contract so you’re going to be considered less of a liability. This means that the repayments should generally be lower. As there is a flat repayment charge, it makes it much easier for your business to budget accurately going forward.

You’ll get access to a full backup service and support, to keep your business operating efficiently even if the forklift stops working. The specifics will depend on the contract, but this may include rapid-repairs, or providing you access to another forklift that you can use while yours is being repaired.

Your annual services and many ongoing maintenance costs will be covered as a part of your repayments, which means you won’t have to worry about being liable for any larger mechanical bills that might arise. You will have to cover consumables such as tyres and forks, and in the event that the forklift is damaged by a customer.

The drawbacks

You will be committed to your contract for its full duration. So you should make sure your business is financially healthy, and that you project you’ll be able to comfortably make your payments until the term is over. If you default on your repayments, you could lose the forklift and be prevented from leasing equipment or getting access to finance in the future.

You will also not be able to alter your vehicle if your needs change. If you need a bigger forklift, you won’t be able to “swap” it under the same contract. When you’re choosing your forklift, it makes sense to invest a little more upfront to make sure you get a machine that will be able to handle your projected growth over the next few years.

You’ll also need to be positive you’re able to successfully meet the lender’s criteria to be approved for the financing. This means being able to satisfy any proof they may need about your current situation or your financial history. Also, bear in mind that you will not own the forklift – when the contract ends, it will be returned.

Get in touch

Don’t hesitate to reach out to Hiremech today if you require more professional advice about the right forklift leasing options for your business.

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