If you own or operate a warehouse, you probably use heavy equipment like forklifts frequently. Most people would probably recommend that you buy one, but there are several instances in which you might want to rent one (or more). Here’s a list of the times when you should look at forklift rentals to get a job done.
1. Your Forklift is Broken
If you’re a forklift operator, you may find yourself held up because of broken-down equipment. If you have a job to do, renting a forklift may be the answer until yours is fixed. That way, you can avoid costly warehouse delays.
2. You Have an Urgent Need
If you suddenly need a forklift or a few extra ones due to an unanticipated increase in demand, you may want to rent one. This can be quicker than trying to purchase one and can ensure that you won’t let anyone down or damage your reputation as a reliable business. Moreover, you won't have to make a long-term investment for a one-off job.
3. It’s Peak Season
Renting a forklift rather than buying one might be the better option if you find that you only need one during peak seasons. Some companies find that they can get by without purchasing the equipment altogether. Instead, they rent what they need when they need it. The purchase price combined with forklift repair services might be more costly than it’s worth if you don’t use one on a regular basis.
4. You’re on a Budget
If you’re on a tight budget, renting a forklift might the way to go rather than buying one. You may not have enough to cover the cost of purchasing one and maintaining it. Depending on the type of forklift, you could end up spending $15,000 to $100,000 to buy one and anywhere from $500 to $1500 per year on maintenance. You could spend more for broken parts replacement, as well.
5. You Want a Test Drive
If you’re on the fence about purchasing a forklift, you could rent one first to try it out. This will give you a chance to see if it’s really an investment you would be willing to make. With a considerable price tag, you should decide which type of forklift is best for you so that you aren’t left with buyer’s remorse.
6. You Want Better Equipment
If your equipment is older but you can’t wait for repairs, you may want to rent a forklift. You can get a newer machine for a time sensitive or more difficult job that perhaps your current forklift can’t handle. You may even have an unusual load that you need a special machine to handle. Most forklifts can handle one to five tons of weight, while a heavy duty forklift can handle 50 tons.
7. You Want to Check Out the Dealer
Perhaps you’ve already decided to buy a forklift, but you want to know more about the dealer. You will probably be spending quite a bit of money and you may rely on the dealer for repairs and maintenance in the future. If you rent a forklift from them, you can see how they operate and what kind of condition their equipment is in.
If you find yourself in any of these situations, talk to your dealer about renting a forklift. You should have a good idea of how long you will need the machine in order to rent one. You will also need to fill out a credit application and have proof of insurance. Other than that, you shouldn’t encounter any problems and you will have what you need to get your warehouse job completed.