Warehouses bustle with nonstop activity, from picking and packaging items to loading boxes onto delivery trucks. When storing materials on pallet racks and retrieving them from shelves, you'll need a quality forklift that can handle these processes efficiently.
Furthermore, you'll need to select this piece of equipment based on weight capacity requirements, pallet rack heights and other factors. Renting forklifts is a great way to find equipment that meets your needs. You can test out different features to determine if they can fulfill crucial warehouse tasks.
There are many reasons to consider renting a forklift for your warehouse processes. Continue reading to explore these benefits and other essential considerations.
Why Should You Rent a Forklift?
A forklift rental provides several benefits, from space- and money-saving abilities to trying out the latest equipment. Here are some reasons you might consider renting a forklift over buying.
1. You Have Limited Storage Capacity
It's no secret that industrial equipment occupies significant warehouse space. When you purchase forklifts, you're responsible for storing and maintaining them constantly — even if there's a period when you aren't using them regularly.
If you have minimal fleet storage space and expanding the facility isn't an option quite yet, renting is likely more viable. You can conserve valuable space by only renting forklifts when you need them.
2. You Want to Try Out the Newest Models
Renting forklifts lets you test the newest models and technology to determine if they'll be a good fit for your warehouse and if it's worth upgrading your current fleet. You can assess the different features carefully before committing to a large purchase right away.
3. You Want to Save Money
Equipment rentals can be a great way to obtain forklifts without paying a significant upfront fee. In most cases, rentals include lower upfront costs than purchases do. Another bonus is that many equipment rentals include maintenance expenses. A rental contract outlines the exact fees you'll pay over a given period, so you should have no budgeting surprises or hiccups.
Perhaps there's a season you won't be using the forklifts consistently. You can save money by only bulk-renting during busy periods with high inventory needs. You don't have to make monthly payments on the equipment you aren't using. Whether you have financial constraints or you're simply looking to save a few bucks, renting forklifts can be a cost-effective option.
Factors to Consider When Renting a Forklift
There's more to renting a forklift than choosing the first vehicle that catches your eye. You'll also need to think about height and weight specifications, platform size and other variables. Below are some key considerations when renting a forklift.
1. Rental Duration
For starters, think about how long you'll need the forklift. This can help you determine whether to rent on a daily, weekly, monthly or long-term basis. Rental companies have different rental periods available.
Be sure to discuss options with your company to see what would be most viable and cost-effective. They can help you receive the best rate and get the most for your buck. For instance, if you need a forklift for a few months, it would likely be more logical to pay monthly instead of per day.
2. Gas-Powered vs. Electric
Gas-powered forklifts are commonly used for outdoor and heavy-duty applications like construction projects. Because they often use highly emissive diesel fuel, they may be less favorable for indoor applications.
Electric forklifts typically run on a rechargeable battery, causing minimal noise and emissions during operation. They're often ideal for warehouses and other indoor settings.
3. Platform Size
Some forklifts have large platforms that can hold employees and tools. Meanwhile, other platforms can only hold one person at a time. When browsing forklifts, examine each platform's dimensions to ensure it can accommodate your warehouse applications.
4. Lift Height
Forklifts have different height-reaching abilities. Figure out the maximum height required for your warehouse tasks, then choose a forklift accordingly.
5. Movement Abilities
Forklifts move differently. Some can move side-to-side and up and down to reach high elevations, while others can only move vertically. It's important to find a forklift that can easily move in the positions and directions necessary for your warehouse.
6. Weight Capacity
Forklifts have different weight capacities, so you should know how much weight the vehicle must support before renting. Additionally, remember that forklifts are designed for carrying different materials. Speak with your rental company to determine the best forklift for your item and weight capacity requirements.
Once you choose a forklift that meets the proper lift height, weight capacity and other specifications, remember that your team will require thorough operator training. A training program is crucial when introducing your crew to any new vehicle so they can operate it safely and efficiently.
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Forklift?
The average cost of renting a forklift is $512 per day, though some models can cost more. You can expect to pay an average of $2,100 when renting monthly. Of course, these prices can vary depending on numerous factors, such as:
- Whether you're renting new or used equipment.
- Delivery costs.
- Machine size.
- The make, model and manufacturer.
- Included features and abilities.
- Damage fees.
Should You Buy or Rent?
Before renting a forklift, you should ensure it's a more practical option than purchasing. But how do you know if it's better to rent or buy?
Overall, it's better to buy a forklift in the following situations:
- You need forklifts daily and don't see any slow seasons.
- You don't have time to constantly bring in different vehicles and retrain employees on new systems.
- You have ample storage space for heavy equipment.
- You want to customize, upgrade or modify your vehicles.
On the other hand, you're likely better off renting if:
- You don't want to pay a large sum upfront.
- You need forklifts for temporary or short-term applications.
- You want consistent access to the newest models and features.
- You want to test out different models before making a concrete decision.
How to Rent a Forklift From Fitzgerald Equipment Company
If you're wondering where to rent a forklift, look no further than Fitzgerald Equipment Company. Committed to supplying customers with the highest-quality material handling equipment for over 60 years, we're happy to help you find a forklift that meets your needs.
From personalized service to vehicles from reputable manufacturers, Fitzgerald is the place to turn when you need forklift rentals for your warehouse. Requesting a rental is quick and simple. Simply fill out our rental request form, providing details such as your maximum lift height, weight capacity and rental start date. A representative will reach out to you promptly.
If you have questions about our available forklift models or rental process, please contact us anytime. We look forward to assisting you!
