Electric vs. propane forklifts: how to compare
Compare electric and propane forklift requirements for the workplace, charging or refuelling, duty cycle and total ownership cost.
Read the guideRough-terrain forklifts in Canada.
Explore equipment requirements for outdoor sites, variable surfaces and demanding material-handling routes.
Rough-terrain handling needs a site-specific equipment choice. Surface, slope, ground bearing conditions, weather and load reach can be as important as load weight. A forklift with large tyres does not automatically meet these needs.
Describe the site accurately
Give the supplier details of access tracks, ground conditions, slopes and working areas. Include photographs or a site visit where appropriate. Conditions can change with rain, frost and site activity, so a dry-day description may be incomplete.
Separate lifting height from forward reach
A straight-mast forklift and a telescopic handler have different operating envelopes. If the task requires forward reach, identify the position of the load and the required placement. Ask for the applicable manufacturer load chart and a qualified equipment assessment.
Consider transport and site controls
Confirm the machine’s transport weight, dimensions, unloading method and access route. Review operator requirements, exclusion zones and site rules with the responsible people before delivery. A quote should identify the exact equipment and approved use.
Answers before you buy
A few good questions.
Need to talk through your application? Send us your equipment brief.
Are pneumatic tyres enough for rough-terrain work?
No. The complete machine must be designed and rated for the actual conditions. Tyre appearance or size is not proof of site suitability.
Should I request a forklift or a telehandler?
Describe the placement task, including forward reach, lift height, load and ground conditions. The appropriate machine must be confirmed using the manufacturer’s specifications and load chart.
Keep comparing.
Forklift capacity, load centre and lift height
Understand why a forklift’s headline capacity is only the starting point when specifying loads, mast height and attachments.
Read the guideMeasure your aisle, mast clearance and racking
Prepare a warehouse layout brief with clear aisle width, door heights, pallet dimensions and the highest required placement.
Read the guideA better brief. A clearer next step.
Request a quoteYour next forklift starts here.
Tell us what you need to lift, where you work and when you need it. We’ll start with your requirements.