When you are in the market to source forklifts for warehousing and 3PL operations, it’s a bit more complicated than just looking at lift capacity and pallet weight. You need to make sure that you have the right specs to prevent aisle congestion, while also managing cycle time, volume, and downtime.
Today, we are discussing the most important specs that need to be considered so that you can build a fleet that suits your needs. Our team at BullDog Forklifts is always here to assist if you have questions or need additional information.
Warehouse Forklift Specs: Things To Consider for 3PL Warehousing
A single-tenant distribution center is pretty straightforward because it has consistent pallets and predictable SKUs. On the other hand, a 3PL operation manages multiple clients and a range of pallet types, with unpredictable swings in volume throughout the year. Instead of looking at capacity ratings to determine forklift requirements, it’s more accurate to evaluate the actual number of pallets moving through the dock door.
Keep in mind that over-equipping your fleet is just as costly as not having strong enough forklifts. For example, if the forklift is too big to fit in your aisles or so heavy that it damages the floors, then the additional costs aren’t worth the extra lifting power.
Warehouse Forklift Specs for Aisle Performance
There are several important factors that should be considered when choosing the best forklift for a distribution center.
- Load Capacity: Not only do you need to know the rated capacity for the forklift, but also consider whether the load center will be shifted (which can reduce capacity). The manufacturers rate the capacity based on a 24-inch load center. If you have oversized pallets or loads that are unevenly distributed, then it moves the center further out and will decrease your safety capacity.
- Mast and Lift Height: In addition to looking at the lifting height, also make sure that the collapsed mast height will clear your dock doors and the interior of the trailers. If you have double-stacked trailer work, then you also need to look at the free-lift height to know how much the load can be raised before the mast starts to extend.
- Aisle Width: It’s also important to know how to calculate forklift aisle width for the type of trucks you are using. Wide-aisle counterbalance trucks need aisles that are at least 12 to 13 feet wide. Reach trucks only need about 8 to 10 feet. If you are using a narrow-aisle forklift, then 5 to 6 feet is sufficient.
Warehouse Forklift Types and When to Use Each
At BullDog Forklifts, we offer a variety of warehouse forklift types to suit the unique needs of each customer. Our team will discuss your application and help you with the selection of the ideal forklift for your warehouse. Here’s an overview of the different types of forklifts that are available:
- Class I Electric Counterbalance: This type of forklift is ideal if you have an indoor environment with a smooth floor. Consider also adding a lithium-ion forklift if you have a multi-shift 3PL and not enough downtime for charging.
- Class II Reach Truck: This is the standard for most high-rack, narrow-aisle distribution centers. You must have smooth, level floors because a Class II reach truck can’t cross dock plates.
- Class IV LP Counterbalance: When you need a combination of both indoor and outdoor usage and a machine that can navigate uneven surfaces, then an LP counterbalance is a great option to consider. This is a popular choice for forklifts that are moving between dock doors and yard areas.
- Class V Diesel: For a forklift that is operating outdoors and in rough terrain, the Class V diesel is a great option. This forklift is often recommended for outdoor yard work and cross-dock heavy loads. Since it has a diesel engine, it can’t be used in indoor, food-grade, or clean environments.
- Tire Selection: In addition to choosing the forklift, also make sure that you have the right tires. Cushion tires are ideal for indoor settings with smooth concrete. Pneumatic or solid pneumatic tires are better for outdoor and cross-dock surfaces. In retail-floor and food-grade facilities, you’ll need to look for non-marking tires to avoid floor damage.
Is It Better to Rent or Buy a Forklift for Warehouse Use?
Buying a forklift is the right choice when you are going to be using it consistently throughout the year. But if you have short-term surges, such as an increased demand during a promotion or Q4, then it often makes sense to lease the equipment you need to get through this busy time. Don’t buy or lease equipment that is going to sit idle for the rest of the year.
Keep in mind that all forklifts must have pre-shift safety inspections, and your operators need to be trained and hold the specific certifications for the type of forklift they are using. Since there are often multiple types of forklifts in 3PL settings, the operators must hold certifications for all the types of forklifts they are driving.
FAQ
What forklift class is best for a 3PL warehouse?
Most of the time, 3PL operations use a mix of Class I or Class IV counterbalance trucks for dock work. Inside, Class II reach trucks are ideal for managing inventory for high-rack storage.
Can one forklift handle both indoor and outdoor 3PL work?
Yes, choose a Class IV LP counterbalance truck with pneumatic tires if you need to handle both indoor and outdoor work. This is the most practical single-truck option for mixed use. But keep in mind that it doesn’t work well for very narrow aisles or high-rack environments.
Talk to BullDog Forklifts About Your DFW Warehouse or 3PL Fleet
Every 3PL operation is unique, especially with the different clients and demands that are moving through the warehouse. At BullDog Forklifts, we are here to help you find the ideal forklifts for your operations. Contact our team to discuss your needs, and we’ll help you choose a fleet of forklifts for warehousing and 3PL.
We offer forklift sales, rentals, accessories, services, and more. Contact us at BullDog Forklifts for a free consultation.