Making Your Heavy Construction Equipment Last As Long As PossibleMaking Your Heavy Construction Equipment Last As Long As Possible

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Making Your Heavy Construction Equipment Last As Long As Possible

Hi, my name is Jamie, and for close to twenty years, I had the challenging job of running a construction company. We had lots of heavy construction equipment at our disposal, and we faced huge loan payments and bills every time we had to buy new equipment. To help control our bottom line, I began to research strategies for lengthening the lifespan of heavy equipment. I discovered everything from covering equipment with tarps in the rain to training drivers to use the heavy construction equipment more carefully to better insuring equipment. If you are interested in these ideas, please take a look at these posts to see what I have discovered and learned over the years. Thanks for reading.

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Forklift Hire Tips.

21 March 2019
 Categories: , Blog

 A forklift is an essential machine when you need to lift heavy loads at the construction site. In this excerpt, you will learn the various considerations you should make during forklift hire. 

Type of forklift

The forklift you hire should suit your needs. Below are some of the forklifts you can use at your construction site.  

Counterbalance forklifts have two forks at the front to transport and lift your products. They are the most common type of forklifts.

If you intend to lift your cargo to great heights, then you require a reach forklift.

A rough terrain forklift is fitted with large flotation tires to improve its stability and increase ground clearance. They are perfect for carrying and lifting materials in rough terrain.

Telescopic forklifts have a telescopic boom which you can use to lift objects a few floors above the ground. They are versatile since the attachment can be changed from a fork to a bucket or lift table.

The condition of the truck

Look for a reputable company offering forklift hire services. Your first action should be to establish the availability of the machine you require. Visit the company's premises and evaluate the condition of the equipment. A recent inspection report is a good source of information regarding the truck's condition. The forklift must also be insured.

Terms of hire

The company's terms of hire must be reasonable. Inquire on the following. 

Does the company offer transport services to and from your construction site? If yes, do they charge for the service?

Will the company conduct routine maintenance on the truck when it is in your hands?

Will the company provide you with a forklift operator?

What procedure should you follow in case of accidents?

If you require the forklift for a long period, inquire if the company has a rent-to-buy-option. 

Pricing

Compare quotes from a few companies and choose the one that offers you the most value for your money. Read and understand the terms of the contract. Ensure that you understand the company's policy regarding late payments, price increments and extra costs. 

Safety during operation

The forklift operator should be licenced to operate the truck. He or she should also have a high-risk work licence. Always observe safety during forklift operation. For example, employees should keep a clear line of communication with the forklift operator. Personnel should also avoid standing below the fork when it is lifting loads. Do not overload the machine. 

When hiring a forklift, find a suitable forklift, evaluate its condition, inquire on the terms of hire, negotiate the price and observe safety during operation.