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Things to Consider When Renting a Forklift

Renting a forklift is perfect for those who either lack the space to buy machinery outright or for companies looking for a more cost-effective, budget-friendly option whilst also ensuring the smooth-running of warehouse operations.

As a hugely popular solution in the material handling industry, there are a number of factors that should be considered before renting a forklift. As such, we’ll be detailing them in this article, together with the benefits of renting equipment rather than purchasing the machinery you need.

Benefits of renting a forklift

We understand how important it is to have high-quality machinery operating throughout your warehouse, but whether you’re on a modest budget or simply don’t have the space to house a forklift, or a fleet of them, then hiring the equipment you need is a viable, effective solution to keep your warehouse running.

There are many ways in which renting a forklift can benefit your business, including:

  • It keeps overall costs to a minimum - you won’t have to worry about paying extortionate amounts for brand new forklifts. Renting equipment is the most budget-friendly option in comparison to buying machinery outright, especially if you’ll only be using it occasionally
  • It will save you space - you won’t need to worry about finding more storage space to house the forklifts you buy. If you have a small premises, then renting equipment is the most ideal solution. Most companies will drop off and pick up the forklifts once you’ve finished using them, so you won’t have to worry about storing them long-term
  • It allows for flexibility - you’ll be able to hire equipment as and when you need to. Whether you need to hire a forklift for a few hours or a few weeks, you’ll be provided with a solution to suit your timeframe and your requirements

Everything you need to consider before renting a forklift

Renting a forklift is a relatively easy, straightforward thing to do, but there’s still a number of things to consider before diving in and hiring a forklift from the first material handling company you find. From time periods to background checks, here’s everything you need to think about before committing to renting a forklift.

Is there a maximum weight that needs lifting?

This is an important point to factor in before committing to renting a forklift. It’s paramount that it’s able to lift the cargo you need to manoeuvre, so try to determine the weight of the stock that needs lifting and discuss your options with the material handling company. As experts in the field, they’ll be able to recommend a forklift that’ll do the job.

Is there a certain height the forklift needs to reach?

Think about the height the cargo needs to be lifted to. Often, it’s easiest to simply calculate the weight of your tallest rack and work from there. For example, if your aim is to store the load at the top of an 8 metre rack in the very back corner of your warehouse, then you know that the forklift you’re wanting to hire will need the capability to lift cargo 8 metres high. Often, it’s common practice to add another 15cm to the height of your top beam to account for the pallet or load you’ll be storing.

What environment will the forklift be used in?

This factor will determine the type of forklift you need to rent. For example, if you needed to use the forklift indoors where food is being produced or stored or in close proximity to communal areas, then a diesel forklift would not be suitable due to the fumes it produces.

The material handling expert may ask you the following questions to help pair you with the right forklift, but it’s important to consider them before enquiring about renting a machine.

Will you be using the forklift indoors, outdoors or both?

This will help to decide whether or not you need an LPG, electric, diesel or petrol forklift.

What type of surface will the forklift be used on?

This ensures that you’re given a forklift with the most appropriate tyres so as to avoid slipping or skidding across certain terrains.

Is there a minimum aisle width the forklift needs to travel down?

You’ll be able to acquire narrow forklifts to help with warehouse operations should you have a smaller premises. You should also consider the space it would need to manoeuvre in order to fit stock onto the rack

Is there a maximum height to enter or exit the warehouse?

It’s important to consider height restrictions when renting a forklift. You’ll need to be able to enter and exit the warehouse safely, so make sure the vehicle you’re hiring isn’t so tall that it can’t access your premises

How long will you need the forklift for?

To help keep costs to a minimum and to make the most of your forklift rental, it’s often a good idea to hire the vehicle for a longer period of time. It’s important to keep in mind, however, that if you’re a new customer, it might take a little while to be approved by a material handling company, so factor this is when looking at timeframes.

Carry out extensive research into the company you’ll be hiring from.

It’s paramount that you find a reputable, legitimate company to rent a forklift from, especially if it’s your first time. There are some things to look out for when choosing a material handling business to hire equipment from, including:
  • Check the company’s website - look out for correct spelling and grammar, check the company address together with their landline telephone number. It might even be a good idea to check out their site and maybe even give them a call. You should also be able to find a privacy policy and a registered company number
  • Check the company against official sources - a legitimate company will give a certain amount of information to Companies House. The company will have to register and then submit annual accounts. Therefore, you should be able to see the office address, the company type and the company status. Alternatively, you could look them up on the Financial Services Register.
  • Run your own company credit check - you’ll be able to see if the company is registered, as well as finding out director details and a company credit score. You can also use Creditsafe to run a verification check on the business you want to hire from

Always read the small print

Make sure you understand the contract and read the small print thoroughly before signing anything. If you aren’t sure about anything, or if you have any questions about it, ask the company to help you. If they’re legitimate, they shouldn’t have a problem explaining things to you until you’re happy to proceed.

Find out what the terms and conditions are and what that includes or excludes when it comes to renting equipment, for example, tyres are generally excluded from a full maintenance agreement as a wear and tear item. It’s also important that you fully understand the customer obligation so you know what you’re expected to do and what you shouldn’t be doing.

Charnwood Lift Trucks are committed to providing effective warehouse solutions to help improve efficiency and productivity throughout your warehouse. Whether you need to purchase or rent a new or used forklift, our team of experts will be able to help. For more information about how we can help your warehouse operations run as smoothly as possible, get in touch with us today.

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    Charnwood Lift Truck Services are one of the leading Mitsubishi Forklift dealers operating in the Midlands.

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