Optimize logistics and reduce your company’s costs
You, who work with organization, must have thought “after all: what is a forklift?”.
Solution for many operations, machines generate high costs for companies when they are stopped. Good practices to improve their functions gain strength in the market, especially during the pandemic, and show what forklifts are for business.
That’s why we’ve separated for tips for those who want to buy forklifts. That way, you increase production, reduce costs and ensure that logistics stimulate your business!
What is a forklift?
First of all, it is necessary to understand what a forklift is. The first sketches appeared in warehouses and warehouses, after the Industrial Revolution. In general, the events at the time inaugurated agile and profitable practices for companies.
By design, the machines aim to bring more agility and dynamics. With this, there is speed to move, carry and organize things without needing human strength. The first forklifts were born in this context, at the beginning of the 20th century, after the Clark company created the Trucktractor prototype.
Currently, there are a number of models that are fundamental for logistics teams.
What are the types of forklift?
Forklifts are classified by engine type, weight and use. There are six classifications, which are standardized by the World Industrial Truck Statistics (WITS), the entity responsible for the trade of industrial trucks in the world. Important to ensure the proper use of machines, these categories help you to better organize your work.
Although different, there is something in common between forklifts: directional axle in the rear! Designed with the aim of offering dynamics, machines that steer with the rear wheels help with movement within warehouses, especially within tight environments.
- Moving loads instead of lifting;
- Electric or combustion engine;
- Indoor or outdoor use.
- Knowing each item is important when defining the operations strategy. From operator training to machine
- type, every detail makes a difference to business success.
From point A to B: how do forklifts move?
Nowadays, there are two types of engines: electric or combustion. There are models powered by gasoline, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) or natural gas.
Another important point is to know the types of tires. Forklifts, which use specific models, need to support a lot of weight while overcoming irregularities in the ground.
Pneumatic
It is the most used in logistics operations in Brazil. It has a design on the tread and needs air to run. Because of these characteristics, it has greater impact absorption and long service life.
Polyurethane:
Geared towards the use of electric forklifts, the tire has great traction. However, its use is indicated for internal environments and smooth floors, since its construction is not made for irregular terrain.
Solid:
Produced with hard rubber, there is no air filling. It can be used indoors and outdoors, but it is not recommended for uneven terrain as it does not absorb impacts and can cause permanent damage to machines.
Get to know each type of forklift well, it could be the solution for your business!
Tips for your forklift fleet:
Preventive maintenance and safety precautions are essential, even more so for the proper functioning of the logistics department. Check out some ideas that will make the job easier!
Batteries
If your company has electric forklifts, it is appropriate to keep individual modules for changing batteries. As the process is time-consuming, you save time, do not interrupt fleet production and save space for maintenance.
Training
Conduct constant training with your team, focusing on safety. From handling with smoothness and precision, to passing other people through the shed.
Security items
Check the current market. Currently, LED headlights have gained traction. They emit a red light capable of guaranteeing a safe distance for pedestrians. In addition, there are devices equipped with radio frequency (RFID), which warn the driver if there are people nearby. They can be located in the vehicle’s blind spot – quite a risk!
Want to know more about how to improve the management of your business? Don’t miss this and other tips on our blog and social media. Tell us in the comments: what practices have you adopted in your company?
Now, if you are thinking of starting a forklift operation. We always think about mobility, whether on land or asphalt. That’s why we work to have the widest range of tires, without leaving you and your forklift stationary.