Forklifts & Telehandlers

All You Need to Know About Forklifts, Telehandlers, and Attachments

Telehandlers and forklifts are designed to last. It's no surprise that vintage forklift parts, used telehandlers, and key blanks are readily available for sale and trade. Well-known manufacturers from Still to JCB, to Caterpillar to Mitsubishi are represented here, alongside lesser-known forklift and telehandler models.

Forklift truck attachments for shipping, construction, agriculture, or property management vary greatly. However, all attachments are typically designed to mount on a four-wheel-drive chassis. Telehandlers also support attachments. Here are a few types of attachments that can be useful when performing forklift jobs:

• Fork tines for lifting and moving pallets.
• Buckets for moving sand and other construction materials.
• Work platforms for building and property maintenance.

Aside from a price reduction, you can expect to find that a used or pre-owned forklift or telehandler will fit your basic needs and your budget. If you are a small business owner with a large inventory, then you might need a forklift to manage your warehouse. However, you won't need to use your forklift truck often. This means that you can purchase a used forklift without much concern for how many work hours it has already earned.

If your forklift training extends only to older models, then it makes sense to use the machines you know before upgrading to newer equipment. You might also consider your current forklift licence and choose equipment that is within the requirements of that document.

Before seeking out certain features, it is important to consider what you need. Rough-terrain forklift trucks are nice to have but not necessary if your forklift will only be used on a concrete factory floor. Booms and telehandlers are useful, but if you are starting a window-washing business, they instantly become a necessity.

Once you know how you intend to use your forklift, consider paying attention to these features:

• Tires: Pneumatic tires are useful for rough terrains, such as construction sites, while cushion tires are meant for smooth surfaces.
• Control valve: This feature is responsible for lift control. A reliable control valve is essential for jobs that require precise movements.
• Turning radius: Check to see if the machine can manoeuvre through your warehouse or field.
• Electric or combustion: Consider your fuelling options and the space in which you will use the machine. Generally, electric forklifts work well indoors while IC engines are used outdoors.