Think that you can use the same forklift for any warehouse? Wrong! Whilst two warehouses can both require a forklift, the type of truck they require is likely to be different depending on the warehouse size, storage type, materials that require handling, and the training and qualification the operators in the warehouse have. 

The best type of forklifts for e-commerce warehouses tend to be reliable vehicles that can operate in tight spaces. 3 wheel electric forklifts are popular with these types of businesses due to their manoeuvrability, allowing them to turn a lot easier than a 4 wheel unit, and therefore making them better at operating in tight spaces. 

If you are looking to maximise the space in your warehouse even more, articulated forklifts can allow the driver to enter very narrow aisles facing forward without needing to rotate. The fork end of the articulated unit can rotate independently from the truck, which allows for easy and safe collection of items. Alternatively, side loaders are better for heavy-duty lifting and allow the operator to collect items from the side whilst entering aisles forward-facing. 

Construction and Builders Merchants

Construction and builders merchants will require forklifts that can withstand rougher environments and undertake heavy lifting over a long period of time. Although it used to be the case that LPG and diesel trucks were the most popular for these applications, many construction companies and builders merchants are choosing to switch their fleet from diesel to electric. The advancements in electric vehicles over the past few years has meant they are now just as powerful, if not more powerful in some cases, than LPG and diesel trucks.

We recently delivered three new trucks to MP Moran (2x Mitsubishi FB35N series 3.5 tonnes and 1x FB30 series 3 tonnes), assisting with their move to an electric fleet. These trucks are exceptional energy efficiency with longer run times and precise load handling, allowing MP Moran to undertake their work more efficiently.

Production and Manufacturing

The best type of forklift for this industry can vary depending on factors such as the environment, products being produced, and manufacturing and operator licences. In some cases, such as farming, a rough terrain forklift will be required, whereas for other industries, for example, hosiery, a more simplistic 3 wheel unit or electric pallet truck will be more appropriate, where pallets are only being moved from the manufacturing shop floor to the warehouse.

LPG tends to be the most popular option for this industry, but electric trucks are becoming more popular. 

Retail Environments

In retail environments, such as DIY shops, it is likely that operators will drive either 3 or 4 wheel trucks to move heavy items around. In these environments, forklifts are normally electric as electric trucks are quieter and keep noise pollution low for customers.

Pallet trucks or pedestrian stackers may also be used to restock items, particularly in supermarkets where items need to be restocked quickly. Aldi, for example, use pallet trucks and keep items on the pallet making it faster and more efficient for both the staff and the customers.

If you need further advice on which forklift will best suit your needs, or you would like us to perform a site survey to analyse which trucks will streamline your business operations, get in touch today and we will be happy to help you.