It’s one of the most important pieces of equipment in your warehouse—the forklift. But is your current forklift living up to its full potential?
Over time, equipment like forklifts can start to encounter problems, stopping your crew from working at their best and slowing down your warehouse or work site. It might be time to invest in a new forklift, as the newer models are faster and stronger than ever.
If you’re on the fence about buying a new forklift, keep reading to find seven useful reasons to purchase a new forklift for your business.
1. A New Forklift Is Safer
When it comes to running a business, safety should always be your number one consideration. You want to avoid accidents, keep your staff safe, and run a business that has a reputation for being dependable and professional.
Buying a new forklift is a great way to look after the safety of your company. This is because a brand-new forklift is going to run like a dream—no risk of mechanical problems, broken parts, or other risks.
Just be sure to organize training sessions when the new forklift arrives, as it might work slightly differently compared to your previous machine. That way, your staff can learn how to operate it safely.
2. Increase Productivity
A new forklift can help your warehouse increase productivity. It’s no secret that brand-new machinery works faster and more efficiently than older, run-down equipment.
With a new machine, you can move goods faster, fill more orders, and accomplish more each day. With increased productivity comes increased profits, so just imagine how much more you could get done with more modern technology.
Older equipment is also prone to breakdowns or delays, which can also cost you valuable time.
3. Improve Employee Satisfaction
Imagine yourself as one of your employees, working in the warehouse each day. How would you feel if your supervisor asked you to work all day with an old, failing forklift?
By giving staff old, outdated equipment, you’re signaling to them that you don’t care enough to give them the right tools for the job. This is likely to impact employee morale, with staff feeling like they aren’t appreciated by their employer.
In contrast, think of how nice it would feel if your employer provided a brand-new forklift for the warehouse. This shows your staff that you care about them and want them to have the right tools to work safely and efficiently.
While new equipment can help, you can also boost morale by promoting good health in the workplace, giving staff more autonomy, and encouraging social time for employees to bond.
4. It’s an Investment in Your Business
Sure, a forklift can be expensive. However, think of it as an investment in your business.
As long as you service and maintain your new forklift, it should last for around 10,000 to 12,000 hours of use—that’s years and years!
Also, if you purchase the forklift strictly for business use, all or part of the cost might be tax-deductible when it’s time to do your taxes. This can be a huge advantage when it comes to offsetting the purchase price of new equipment and machinery.
Talk to your accountant to learn more.
However, even if you can’t afford to purchase a new forklift outright, consider renting one until you’re able to buy.
5. Reduce Workplace Accidents
There’s nothing worse than a workplace accident. Not only is it devastating to see one of your employees injured on the job, but it can also result in huge expenses and the temporary closure of your warehouse.
Older forklifts are more likely to jerk forward, work incorrectly, or fail in some capacity, which can put the operator at risk, as well as any staff in the immediate area.
With a new, modern forklift, everything will operate exactly as it should. This should reduce the risk of accidents caused by equipment failure.
Of course, the forklift will still need to be used safely and in accordance with all guidelines.
6. It’s Durable
For most warehouses, you’re hauling some serious gear. Lifting heavy pallets, moving large items, or working with gravel, building supplies, or dirt means you need equipment that’s tough as nails.
If you purchase the right forklift, it’s going to stand the test of time. Make yourself aware of quality forklift brands, as these are the best to handle anything your company can throw at it.
7. You Can Expand the Scope of Your Business
Another advantage you might not have considered is that new forklifts can expand the scope of your business. If you purchase a forklift that has a heavier capacity than your current one, you can lift heavier, bigger loads, giving your business the ability to take on new projects.
It’s always best to buy a forklift with the largest lifting capacity you can afford, as you want to maximize the versatility of your equipment.
Improve Your Warehouse Business With a New Forklift
If you’re thinking about a new forklift, these useful benefits might help convince you to take the plunge. While it’s a large investment, the advantages it brings to your business will help recoup the cost.
To get started, spend some time researching forklift models and their key features, working out which is best for your company. Then, place an order from a local supplier and your new forklift will soon be delivered to your business!
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