The correct choice of a forklift for your warehouse is not just a purchase, it's an investment in efficiency and safety. Two key characteristics that must be taken into account are lifting capacity and lifting height. If chosen incorrectly, this can lead to damage to equipment, goods, and worst of all, to personnel injuries. Let's look at how to avoid these mistakes.

Calculating Lifting Capacity

A forklift's lifting capacity is the maximum weight it can lift to a standard height (usually 500 mm from the ground). You can see this figure in the technical passport, but it's important to understand that this is only a basic value.

Mistake #1: Ignoring the center of gravity.

Every load has its center of gravity. The further the center of gravity of your load is from the backrest of the forks, the lower the actual lifting capacity of the forklift. This is called residual lifting capacity. Manufacturers indicate it in special diagrams.

  • How to avoid: Before purchasing, determine the average weight and dimensions of your loads. Ask the seller for the residual lifting capacity diagram for the specific model. This will help you understand the maximum weight the forklift can lift at a certain height and with a specific center of gravity.

Mistake #2: Insufficient reserve.

Do not buy a forklift that is "just enough" for the maximum weight. If your standard pallet weighs 1.5 tons, a forklift with a lifting capacity of 1.5 tons will operate at its limits, leading to faster wear.

  • How to avoid: Always choose a forklift with a lifting capacity reserve of 15–20% of the maximum weight of your goods.

Choosing the Lifting Height

The lifting height is the maximum height to which a forklift can lift a load. Forklifts come with two-, three-, and four-section masts.

Mistake #3: Not taking into account the height of the racks.

Often, forklifts are purchased based only on the maximum height. But it is important to consider the height of your racks and the free lift height.

  • Free lift: This is the height to which the forks can be raised without changing the overall height of the mast. This is critically important for working in confined spaces, such as trucks, containers, or under low gates.

  • How to avoid: Measure the height of the highest shelf of the rack and add 15–20 cm. Also, make sure the forklift can freely enter all premises where it will operate, taking into account the height of doors and gates.

Our Approach

With us, you can not only purchase a reliable used forklift but also receive professional advice. Our specialists will help you analyze all the nuances of your warehouse and cargo to select the ideal model that will work efficiently and safely for many years.