Of the many things to consider when deciding on which type of forklift to buy is whether you want to go with a sit down vs stand up forklift. Each has both pros and cons, so it’s important to understand the differences between them, and then explore the specifics of the job in order to select the style that offers the most benefits.

Sit Down vs Stand Up Forklift Comparison

Sit down forklifts allow for the driver to stay seated while operating the equipment. This is ideal for jobs in which the operator isn’t needed to load or move any goods. The sit down forklift also provides added comfort, making it a good fit for operators who have to drive the lift for a lengthy amount of time. It is typically designed as a three- or four-wheel model, the first of which can better maneuver small spaces.

For particularly small spaces, stand up forklifts, on the other hand, maybe a better fit. These space-saving lifts are more compact than sit down models, with a taller, more narrow design. That allows the lift to turn more efficiently in narrow areas, as well as gives the driver better visibility, as the operator isn’t confined to a front-facing seat. However, the operator must be comfortable with standing throughout the duration of the job, so this type of lift is better suited for use in smaller increments of time than the sit down version.

Factors to Consider

The sit down vs stand up forklift debate comes down to understanding the specifics of your job or work site. It’s important to determine how long the lift will be in use, the measurements of the specific spaces in which it will operate, the capabilities of the operators and the type of goods and products it will be moving, among other considerations. Once you decide on the model, explore the inventory of used forklifts at National Forklift Exchange to get high-quality equipment for less. Invest that savings into updated training for operators, so no matter which side of the sit down vs stand up forklift decision your company opts for, you can trust that the equipment will be operated safely and efficiently.