Forklift Buying Guide

Forklift Buying Guide

Choose the Right Forklift for the Job

You’re in the market for a forklift. With so many options, how do you find the right forklift for the job?

The forklift market offers a wide variety of dependable machines, from trusted brands. With so many great products, it can be confusing to choose exactly what you need.

We’ve compiled a forklift buying guide to assist you. It includes questions to lead you through some of the criteria that help determine which forklift makes the most sense for your business. Considering your specific needs in relation to usage, cost of ownership and production is critical to making a good choice.

Here are questions you should ask before making a forklift selection. 

What brand of forklift should I buy?

With many reliable brands, it can be hard to choose a forklift. If you currently use a certain brand, there can be benefits to buying that brand again. For example, less training is necessary to use the new equipment. If you’re in the market for more than one forklift, though, your needs may have changed. In that case, another brand might have something better to offer for your specific usage. G&W sales staff has expert advice and familiarity with all the brands we carry. We’re happy to discuss your current needs and offer our advice.

What type of forklift tire is best?

Each tire option has its distinct benefits. Cushion tires are ideal for indoor use. For outdoor, and more rugged jobs, pneumatic tires are the right choice.

What type of forklift engine will work best for my needs?

Electric, Diesel, Gasoline, LP – there are many types of forklift engines. Once again, your needs help dictate the best option. Electric forklifts have benefits for indoor use, since they don’t produce emissions and they’re quieter. And, with the extended battery life, electric forklifts are increasingly efficient. For more heavy-duty forklift options, a gas-powered forklift might be better. Or a more powerful diesel engine or an LP (liquid petroleum) forklift might fit the bill. G&W can provide more detailed information, including cost benefits of each, to help you make the right selection.

Should I buy a new or used forklift?

Choosing between a new or used forklift often hinges on usage. For high-capacity needs (think: multiple shifts a day), a new forklift offers many benefits – less downtime and often newer features. For less extensive use, a used forklift from a reputable company, like G&W, can be an affordable option. G&W has a large inventory of used forklifts, and we offer the same dependable service options. 

Is forklift rental right for me?

If conditions are right, renting a forklift can be cost effective. Is your need short-term? (For example, seasonal needs or a replacement for a forklift out for service.) We have some helpful information on the G&W website regarding the benefits of renting a forklift.

Let G&W Help You Choose the Right Forklift

G&W offers trained sales staff, who are dedicated to assisting customers in selecting the right forklift. As a locally owned dealer of new, used and rental forklifts, we want to help you increase production and reduce cost of ownership. 

If you’re in the market for a new or used forklift, contact the G&W team. In addition to the checklist above, we offer the following resources on our site to help you increase your knowledge and familiarity with forklift terms and working parts: Forklift Terminology and Anatomy of a Forklift.

When you’re ready to talk to someone about buying a forklift for your business, contact us.