How to Determine the Right Forklift Capacity for Your Operations

One of the most important details that needs to be considered when choosing a forklift is the capacity that will be needed to handle your loads. While there are many other features and details that can be considered, when you choose forklift capacity correctly, it has an undeniable impact on safety, efficiency, and overall costs.

No matter your industry, there is no question that choosing the right equipment will make a difference in your overall operations. If you pick the wrong forklift, then it can increase the risk of accidents and product damage. You might end up spending more money in the long run because of these possible complications.

The Starting Point: Understanding the Rated Capacity Plate

As you are looking at forklift specs, pay attention to the capacity plate. This information tells you everything you need to know about the forklift ratings and how much load capacity it will be able to handle.

It’s critical that these details align with the size of your loads. If you need to move heavier loads, then it might be more time-consuming to have a forklift that is insufficient, because it will require reducing the size of the loads and increasing the number of loads that you are moving.

On the other hand, it doesn’t make sense to choose a forklift with a load capacity that is much bigger than you need. In this situation, you will be overpaying for the equipment. Finding the right forklift capacity is a balance… You need to choose the “sweet spot” that aligns with your lifting requirements.

It’s Not Just Weight (The Critical Role of Load Center)

In addition to the weight of your load, also consider how the forklift will handle load balance. The fulcrum principle comes into play here because you need to center everything so that the overall load is evenly distributed and positioned correctly with the fulcrum.

So, measurements and calculations need to take place to make sure that everything is positioned strategically on the load. These calculations will change depending on the type and size of forklift you are using, which is why it’s critical to evaluate your needs before buying or renting a forklift for your project.

Key Factors That Influence the Right Forklift Capacity

Reach out to our team if you need assistance choosing the right forklift load capacity for your business. We’ll discuss your needs, including the types of materials or products that you plan to move. Our experienced crew has a forklift capacity calculator that can be used to determine the right equipment. We will also evaluate other details, such as:

• Attachments: Various types of attachments are available depending on the items that you will be moving with the forklift. We offer options such as forks, clamps, and rotators.
• Lift Height: How high will you need to raise the load? The higher you need to go, the lower the capacity ratings. Lifting high loads can affect the overall balance of the equipment.
• Load Type: Provide details to us about the types of loads that you will be moving. For example, are all of your pallets uniform in size, shape, and weight? Then it’s easier to choose a forklift that aligns with these needs. On the other hand, oversized or irregular loads need special considerations to ensure that you have a forklift that is sufficient for all of these variations.
• Tire Type: Also, it’s important to understand how the type of forklift tires that you are using will impact the stability of the machine. We’ll recommend either cushion or pneumatic tires, depending on the environment where the forklift will be used (indoor floors vs. uneven outdoor surfaces).

A Step-by-Step Guide to Calculating Your Needed Capacity

You can use a forklift capacity calculator to determine the ideal equipment that aligns with your goals. Our team is here to help with your calculations. These are the steps that we follow to deliver the best recommendations for your needs:

• Step 1 – Weight of the Loads: You need accurate weight measurements for both your typical loads and the heaviest loads that you will be moving.
• Step 2 – Measure the Load Center: Find the exact measurements for the load center.
• Step 3 – Consider Attachments: The type of attachments you are using can impact the overall safety and stability of the load. So, it’s important to consider these attachments when determining the ideal equipment.
• Step 4 – Build in a Safety Margin: We always like to add a safety margin… a buffer to reduce the risk of accidents while the forklift is being used. Our team follows the 20% rule, giving you a wide margin to protect your equipment, loads, and crew members.
• Step 5 – Forklift Capacity Calculator: This calculator can be used to identify the equipment that will suit your needs. Make sure that you are choosing a forklift that has ratings to match the calculator (or higher load ratings).

What Happens If You Get It Wrong?

Even though it takes a bit of work to determine the right forklift load capacity, it’s worth the effort. Choosing a forklift that is under capacity increases the risk of tipping, safety violations, and unnecessary strain on the equipment. On the other hand, a forklift that is over capacity means that you are going to have higher costs to purchase the equipment, wasted fuel, and inefficiencies with the loads you are moving. Bigger isn’t always better.

FAQs

What is a forklift’s “rated capacity”?

Every forklift has a rated capacity, which indicates the maximum weight the forklift will be able to handle safely, based on the load center and lift height.

How much does a forklift attachment (like a clamp or rotator) reduce the lifting capacity?

The lifting capacity changes depending on the type of attachment you are using. Some of these attachments can decrease lifting capacity by as much as 10–50%. Make sure that you are following the manufacturer’s specs.

Is it better to get a forklift with a much higher capacity than I currently need?

Bigger doesn’t necessarily mean better performance. If you have an oversized forklift, then it means that it is more expensive and less efficient. Yes, you want a little bit of a safety margin, but it’s wasteful to choose a forklift that is too big.

Call the Forklift Experts for Personalized Recommendations

If you need assistance with finding the right forklift, then ACE Equipment is just a phone call away. We offer forklift rentals and ongoing services. Contact us today to learn more about your options.