Southern States Blog

Forklift and Material Handling Industry News | Top Stories of 2023

Written by Southern States Toyotalift | Dec 22, 2023 2:00:00 PM

Throughout the year, we post forklift and material handling news stories on our blog. At the end of the year, we run a report to find which stories were the most popular.

The most-read articles in 2023 were mainly about forklift safety, but we noticed increased interest in fleet management this year. 

Without further ado, let's count down the top 10 posts of 2023.

#10 - 7 Must-Have Forklift Safety Accessories

Our tenth most-read article is a rundown of forklift safety accessories. These affordable add-ons will protect your people, equipment, and products — in 2024 and beyond.

 

#9 - How to Use the Section 179 Tax Deduction to Buy a Forklift in 2023

If you're debating whether to buy new equipment this year vs. in 2024, this article is a must read. We explain how Section 179 works and link to a tax savings calculator.

 


#8 - Hydraulic vs. Electric Scissor Lifts: Which One Is Right For You?

Our equipment expert lists the advantages and disadvantages of using a hydraulic vs. electric scissor lift so you can make an informed buying decision.

You can also try before you buy. We rent hydraulic and electric scissor lifts

#7 - How to Read a Forklift Data Plate

A forklift's data plate provides essential info for forklift operators, but it can be hard to understand all the numbers and codes. This article explains everything on a Toyota forklift data plate. 

#6 - Why Are Forklift Pre-Shift Inspections Important?

Our forklift safety expert answers common questions about pre-shift forklift inspections, such as, "How long should a pre-shift inspection take to complete?" You can also download a sample inspection checklist.

#5 - Toyota Lean Management vs. Six Sigma - Which is Better?

We've reached the top five! This article compares two popular lean management systems. Find out which one:

  • Is easier to implement
  • Leverages people vs. data
  • Requires 2-3 months of training

If you're considering a lean management program, this overview of Toyota Lean Management explains the Toyota system using real-world examples.

#4 - Calculating the True Cost per Hour of Your Forklift

Our fourth most popular article was read by nearly 1000 people in 2023. In this post, we explain how to use operating cost per hour to:

  • Compare different forklift models and brands
  • Get maximum value from your equipment

#3 - Different Types of Forklifts - OSHA Classifications Explained

OSHA sorts forklifts into classifications such as “Class IV” and “Class I," which can be confusing. This article lists the common name and OSHA classification for different types of forklifts.

#2 - Forklift Safety Lights - What Does OSHA Require?

Our second-most-read article of 2023 is a straightforward guide to OSHA requirements for forklift safety lights.

 

#1 - Top 10 OSHA Violations of 2022

Our most popular article received almost 4000 views in 2023. We hope raising awareness about the most common OSHA violations and associated fines will lead to fewer incidents in the near future. 

For more information on any of the articles above or to suggest a topic for 2024, contact us online or by phone at (800) 226-2345. You can also visit us in person at one of our ten locations.

FLORIDA: Jacksonville, Ocala, Orlando, Lakeland, Tampa, Winter Haven

GEORGIA: Albany, Macon, Midland, Valdosta

To all of our customers: it is an honor to be your business partner. We look forward to serving you in the new year.