How do you know what capacity of forklift will fit your company’s needs and do the job safely?  If you need to lift a 5.000 lb load, a 5,000 lb forklift will do, right?  ….  Not likely.  There are many factors that can change the capacity rating a forklift.

Capacity ratings on forklifts can vary tremendously compared to what may be stamped on data plate or what size load you are actually lifting.  Capacity ratings can be often misunderstood by forklift owners, operators, and often times many salespeople.

Gross Capacity of a Forklift

The gross capacity of a forklift is what a forklift is rated for with the base chassis.  The gross capacity only gives a capacity up to a specified height, without any options and if all conditions were ideal.  Adding attachments, such as sideshifts or fork positioners can alter the capacity rating of the forklift significantly.  The capacity that a forklift can safely lift will also change if the load width or length changes from the rated load center on the data plate (standard 48” load ).  Forklift manufactures typically use a 24” load center (also known as the horizontal and vertical center of gravity of the load) for the base rating of a forklift.  The base capacity rating of a forklift should only be used to compare one manufacture’s forklift to another.

Net Capacity of a Forklift

The net capacity (also known as a payload capacity) of a forklift is more specific to each individual forklift.  The net rating takes into account all of the options of the individual forklift, such as any attachments and the model and height of the mast.  Remember, the higher you lift and the larger the load, the lower the net capacity of the forklift will be.

Do you currently own an older forklift and are looking to replace it with the same specifications?  Be prepared, new trucks today most likely will not have the same ability to lift as their older counterparts.  There are many miscellaneous items that will quickly change the gross capacity of a forklift such as tire choice (cushion tire, air pneumatic, or solid pneumatic tires), flat ground versus uneven terrain versus incline or ramps, and even the degree in which the mast can tilt forward or backward.

To correctly identify the capacity of forklift that would be safe in your operation, it would be best if the dealer representative could evaluate how the forklift will be used in your operation.  Some of the items a dealer representative will look for are:  What types of loads the forklift will carry, what the length/width and height the load is, what the load weight is, if  the loads are evenly distributed, how high the loads need to be lifted, will your operation need an attachment, what type of floor  or surface conditions will the forklift drive on, etc?

Here at Quality Lift Trucks, we have experienced fleet management experts and representatives that understand the equipment in the industry, will help you with the specifications for your operation.  We will ensure we understand your application and the bigger picture on how to integrate the forklift truck for maximum safety, productivity and lowest cost of ownership.  We will help you make buying a forklift as easy as possible.

For more information, please call us at (619) 425-1640.

Your improved bottom line, productivity and safety is the reason we are proud to be the authorized dealer for Nissan, Doosan and Big Joe Forklifts, Hoss Electric Cars, and JLG Aerial and Boom Lifts and much more.  In an effort to support our customers with the best value we have made very careful evaluations of the product lines we represent and will stand firm behind our products.  The benefits to your business:

• Free on-line fleet management access, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Ask to see this valuable tool to help you keep your costs under control.
• Our service personnel are factory trained and are proficient in the many areas required with today’s material handling equipment including electric, gas, LP gas, and diesel forklifts.
• We service all makes and models of Forklifts and Material Handling equipment. Either on your site or in our shop, we are capable of keeping your equipment well maintained and safe.
• Our fully stocked parts department will ensure your equipment up time.
• Our goal is to keep your equipment in the best condition possible through our planned and guaranteed maintenance programs

To better serve our customers, our main office is located in Chula Vista and we have offices in Tijuana and in San Marcos.  We have service vehicles in the field which are dispatched based on the closest technician to your facility reducing your down time.

Please contact us at (619) 425-1640 for a complete listing of our products, services and capabilities.  We look forward to understanding your need and will present a solution that will improve your operation and bottom line.

As a leading material handling dealer in San Diego County, Riverside County and Baja California, Quality Lift Trucks, has the expertise to meet all of your forklift and warehousing equipment needs. We offer complete fleet management services, as well as individual forklift service, parts, rentals, and operator training for all makes and models of forklifts.

We are a leading provider of a full line of high-quality and high performance forklifts, including LP gas forklifts, electric lifts, and diesel powered lift trucks. We have forklifts and hand trucks that will meet all warehousing needs. We offer a complete range of fully integrated warehouse solutions backed up by a professional and knowledgeable staff who take pride in the work they do for you.

We are your “One-Stop Shop” for all of your material handling needs!
Whether you just need parts or would like help redesigning your warehouse, give us a call.

We are please to announce that we have recently been honored with the opportunity to represent Nissan Forklifts!