Flexible forklift hire and leasing arrangements could help firms manage changing workloads without major upfront investment
Businesses could be paying more than necessary to operate their forklift fleets, with a materials handling specialist warning that relying solely on manufacturers may limit flexibility and operational efficiency.
Chris Rodger, National Sales Manager at Rushlift, says companies should take a broader approach to fleet management to improve reliability, reduce costs and make better use of their equipment.
Many businesses purchase forklifts and maintenance packages directly from original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), believing this offers the best value with minimal risk.
However, Rodger argues that manufacturers are primarily focused on selling their own equipment, which may not always be the most suitable option for customers.
While manufacturers may offer competitive deals to secure orders, businesses could end up choosing machinery based on what is available within a particular product range rather than what best meets their operational needs.
With warehouses and factories under increasing pressure to improve productivity, operators are looking for equipment capable of performing multiple tasks while adapting to changing workloads.
In some cases, specialist machinery could replace several vehicles, reducing fleet sizes and associated operating costs.
For example, a truck capable of both loading trailers and working within narrow warehouse aisles could eliminate the need for separate machines.
Rodger suggests businesses should instead adopt a "best for purpose" approach, selecting equipment according to operational requirements rather than manufacturer preference.
This could include telereach trucks for loading and unloading curtain-sided trailers or articulated narrow aisle forklifts that provide greater flexibility and make better use of available space.
He also highlights the growing importance of flexible hire arrangements as businesses respond to periods of increased demand.
According to Rodger, "flexibility to hire in trucks at peak periods can help trim overall fleet costs and provide extra cover when needed."
Such arrangements could allow operators to increase capacity during busy periods without committing to additional permanent equipment.
Independent, multi-brand suppliers are increasingly being presented as an alternative to traditional manufacturer-led purchasing arrangements.
Rodger says these providers can offer machinery from different manufacturers alongside maintenance, servicing and fleet performance assessments.
By analysing how individual forklifts are used, businesses may be able to identify underutilised equipment, improve reliability and reduce unnecessary expenditure.
Rushlift, which provides materials handling equipment and support across the UK, says its approach focuses on supplying "the best truck for the job, whatever the make".
The company operates service centres across the country and has more than 90 field service engineers available to support customers.
It reports an average four-hour response time for vehicles taken out of service, with regular maintenance intended to minimise downtime and improve fleet reliability.
Rushlift also operates a flexible hire fleet of more than 300 vehicles, providing additional equipment for businesses experiencing temporary increases in demand.
Rodger believes traditional fleet ownership arrangements are becoming less attractive as companies seek greater flexibility through hire and leasing.
These options can allow businesses to increase or reduce their fleets according to demand while avoiding the upfront capital costs associated with purchasing additional machinery.
He argues that combining flexible equipment sourcing with ongoing maintenance and performance reviews could help businesses improve productivity and maximise the value of their forklift fleets.
The approach is particularly relevant to operations facing fluctuating workloads, where equipment availability and reliability can have a significant impact on day-to-day performance.