Forklift useful life is the total amount of time a forklift will operate. In other words, it indicates how long a new forklift will last before it is beyond repair. On average, forklift lifespan is 10,000 hours (5-7 years). Of course, there are many factors to consider.
Forklifts are the workhorses of most warehouse operations. You pour a lot of money, sweat, and time into these machines, but do you know the forklift life expectancy of your equipment? Understanding forklift lifespan protects the safety of your operators and ensures that your equipment is operating at full potential. If you notice a majority of the signs below, it may be time for a new forklift.
If you are in need of a replacement, we’ll show you how to find the best deals on new and used forklifts from top sellers in your area. First, look out for these five signs that it’s time to get a new forklift:
1. It’s always in need of repair.
Regular maintenance is obviously important, but if you’re constantly spending money and time on repairs, your costs may be higher than your profits. Operating equipment past the forklift useful life is also a safety hazard.
2. It’s exposed to extreme temperatures.
The way your forklift is used is a major factor in forklift lifespan. Trucks that are operated in extreme temperatures or that handle corrosive materials have a short forklift life expectancy than those in clean environments.
3. There is wear or distortion on the forklift blades.
This sounds pretty basic, but if the forks are significantly worn, they need to be replaced. Look for cracks or distortions. Overloading a forklift can also bend and weaken the forks. Bent or worn forks won’t necessarily mean you need to replace the entire machine, but you definitely need to purchase new forks immediately.
4. You’re experiencing excessive downtime.
Holding onto a forklift too long will cost you. Downtime caused by machines in repair leads to decreased productivity and lost profits.
5. The forklift is being run for multiple shifts.
Forklift hours, a measure of the amount of time the equipment has been used thus far, affect lifespan. If you use your equipment constantly, your forklift lifespan will decrease. Think of forklift hours like miles on a car. The higher the forklift hours, the shorter the forklift life expectancy.
Forklift life expectancy will be different for every operation. Countless factors affect longevity. Extend forklift useful life by operating within the specs listed on the equipment. Perform routine maintenance to resolve small issues before they become lingering ones.
On average, the useful life of a forklift is approximately 10,000 to 12,000 hours depending on maintenance, operating conditions, and the type of equipment. Avoid a loss of profits and operate efficiently by replacing your equipment in a timely fashion.
Forklift Useful Life vs. Economic Life
Keep in mind that there is a difference between forklift useful life and economic life. The useful life of a forklift is simply how long it will function. On the other hand, the economic life of a forklift is how long it will operate at a profit. In other words, when your forklift starts costing you more money in repairs than it is making you in efficiency and productivity, it has reached the end of its economic life.
It is financially smart to replace your forklift when it reaches the end of its economic life, even if its forklift useful life isn’t completely spent.
Ready for a replacement? If your forklift hours are high and productivity is low, it’s time to start shopping. If you’re not sure where to start, consider using an online price comparison tool like Industrial Forklift Truck or Forklift Inventory. On these sites, you can select your equipment type and specifications to receive free quotes from a variety of qualified dealers in your area.
Find quality equipment with a high forklift life expectancy. Need more information before you start shopping? Check out our other purchasing resources and tips here.
