Five signs it's the right time to look at Lithium-ion forklifts
Lithium-ion forklifts are becoming increasingly common in warehouses, however, not every operation is ready to make the switch and not every operation needs to. The key question is not whether Lithium-ion technology is better, the real question is whether it is the right solution for your business. So, now is a good time to consider whether Lithium-ion forklifts could help improve your productivity, reduce operating costs and simplify your operation.
ASK YOURSELF:
1. Do you operate an extended shift?
As warehouse operating hours increase, so does the demand placed on forklifts. Diesel is not suited to indoor working and lead acid batteries often require lengthy charging periods, both options can reduce equipment availability.
Lithium-ion forklifts can be opportunity charged during breaks, shift changes or periods of inactivity, maximising truck availability throughout the working day.
If your operation regularly runs two or three shifts, Lithium-ion is worth considering.
2. Is space at a premium?
Warehouse space is valuable. Many businesses have dedicated battery charging rooms with spare batteries and battery charging equipment. Can this space be used more productively?
Lithium-ion charging is simpler and more flexible, so helps reduce the amount of space dedicated to battery management.
If you are looking to maximise your warehouse capacity or improve warehouse utilisation, Lithium-ion is a consideration.
3. Want to reduce your maintenance budget?
Every warehouse is looking for ways to reduce costs and improve efficiency. Both diesel, LPG and lead acid require regular maintenance but this adds cost and time when your forklift isn’t available to work.
Lithium-ion batteries require significantly less routine maintenance, improving availability and reducing costs.
If reducing maintenance costs will boost your operation then take a look at Lithium-ion options.
4. Is forklift availability essential for your business?
Warehouses are under more pressure than ever to maintain productivity, reduce costs and keep customers happy. When forklifts are unavailable due to breakdowns, servicing or charging, problems mount quickly.
Lithium-ion technology improves equipment availability with faster opportunity charging and reduced maintenance.
For warehouses focussed on productivity, consider your Lithium-ion options.
5. Thinking of renewing your fleet?
The best time to consider Lithium-ion is before making a major investment decision. If your warehouse has forklifts coming to the end of their contracts or you are expanding operations, now is the ideal time to assess all available power options.
It’s not about same again, it’s about evaluating which technologies best fit your operation. More and more fleets are switching to Lithium-ion.
The Grant Handling difference
Grant Handling has more than 45 years of experience supporting forklift users throughout the UK. Our focus is simple, keeping your operation moving. With HELI’s globally acclaimed electric forklift range and comprehensive national service support, experienced mobile engineers, tailored maintenance packages and genuine parts support we are there when it matters.
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