Selecting the best forklift model isn’t easy, especially if you have a limited budget to purchase one. Very few manufacturers will produce a forklift model that will be able to meet all the exact details a company is seeking. The best way to choose a forklift model for landscaping, tree removal and outdoor jobs is to define your budget and your needs. Once you have this information, comparing models and costs will help you to find a dealer representative to provide you with a great forklift option.
Caterpillar
One of the top brands for forklifts is the Caterpillar brand. It is a popular choice in the United States as they provide consistently high ratings for safety and reliability. These forklifts can function on rough terrain, making them a popular choice for landscaping and outdoor jobs. CAT lift trucks can handle loads ranging from 2,500 to 36,000lbs. Modern forklift models include electric counterbalanced and internal combustion cushion and pneumatic tire lifts, making them one of the top brands on the market.
Clark
Another popular forklift brand is Clark forklifts. Their forklift models are designed to handle lifting ranging from 1,500 to 100,000-plus pounds. Clark is known for listening to customer demands and altering their forklifts to meet their needs. They use lean manufacturing to reduce product defects and manufacture high-quality forklifts.
Crown Forklifts
Crown Forklifts are designed with safety in mind. They provide some of the most efficient, safe, and comfortable forklifts on the market. The FC 4500 lift truck is one of the top models for rugged terrains, making it a popular choice for landscaping.
Understanding the Environment
Not all forklifts are manufactured to handle the rugged terrain they will encounter during a landscaping project. Never use an electric forklift for exterior use because it cannot get wet. The electric forklift will have limited ground clearance, making it a bad option for hills and terrain that will scrape the bottom. A forklift must have adequate clearance to go over bumps and potholes when working outside. The pneumatic tires will absorb the bumps and can handle the uneven ground. A diesel engine forklift is a wise option for exterior work.
Height and Load Requirements
How high will you need the forklift to go? This is another thing to consider when you compare the brands and models as some will not be able to lift as high as others. The load requirements are another important thing to consider when looking at the forklifts. What is the load capacity of the forklift? If you are taking on a massive landscaping project where you are moving pallets of heavy brick and rock, you need an accurate rate. Most forklifts will lift around 2.5 tons.
Comparing Costs
Since diesel forklifts generally cost more, you need to be prepared to spend more on a forklift model. Used forklifts can work great for landscaping needs, but you need to test the turning circle and other things to make sure they can handle the high lifts and tight turns. Ultimately, cost will play the largest role in which forklift you end up purchasing for your landscaping project. Outline this amount before you get started to find the best model for your budget and needs.