Forklifts in the Rain: Debunking Electric Forklift Myths

“Are you sure you want to do the demo in the rain?" a high-volume outdoor client in Jacksonville asked. Of course, he didn't realize that Toyota electric forklifts were made to operate in all kinds of weather—even heavy rain. The heavy-duty electric forklift performed flawlessly during the demo, and the client happily switched from diesel to electric. There are many misconceptions and concerns when it comes to electric forklifts. We'd like to debunk some of those common myths for you. Read on to learn the truth about electric forklifts.

Myth 1: Electric Forklifts Can’t Go Outside

Electric forklifts have come a long way since they were introduced. Battery technology and weather-proofing have made huge strides even in recent years. In fact, several outdoor electric forklifts perform just as well as IC forklifts over asphalt in the rain. So, while the weather is a consideration, it does not exclude electric forklifts.

Still, every facility is unique. So let us come out and assess your needs. Our site surveys are performed with no strings attached. We'll identify what solutions will work best for you, whether electric or IC.

Myth 2: A Forklift Battery Might Die Mid-Shift

Many of our clients are concerned that forklift batteries can’t provide power for more than a single shift. They worry they’ll have to keep multiple batteries for each forklift, so operators can swap out throughout the day. However, improvements in technology make battery swapping unnecessary.

Now, forklift batteries and charging infrastructure can be tailored to the client's needs. High-frequency chargers, opportunity charging, regenerative braking, and fast chargers are now common in most electric forklift fleets. With the proper combination of quality batteries and charging stations, most clients never have to change the batteries out of their forklifts and can run them all day. Really, electric forklifts have become one of the most reliable machines on the market.

Myth 3: Electric Forklifts Are More Expensive

Sure, electric forklifts are more expensive upfront, but IC forklifts become more costly over the course of ownership due to the accumulating cost of maintenance and fuel. That’s why we urge our clients to consider the total cost of ownership for any forklift they buy.

Total cost of ownership is more difficult to determine than a simple sticker price because a forklift is a long-term investment. When we do a site survey, we take the time to understand your needs and what a forklift will likely cost you during its functional life. Most of the time, electric forklifts end up being less expensive overall.

We aren't the only organization that recognizes that. Several independent studies have determined that Toyota electric forklifts have the lowest total cost of ownership by a considerable margin.

Myth 4:  Buying a Forklift Is Like Buying a Car

At a car dealership, the salesperson tells you the car's features, gives you a demo, and then sells you the car without really taking the time to understand if it meets your needs. That works because most of us have similar automotive needs. However, all client businesses are unique, and forklifts are designed to meet specialized needs.

At Southern States Toyotalift, we offer solutions tailored to a client's unique needs. That's why we always conduct a site survey before recommending equipment. Site surveys are free, and there's no obligation to buy anything. We come out to your facility and take the time to understand how you use your forklifts.

Once we have the whole picture, we work up our recommendations and provide a quote. Then, when you're ready, we demo the models you're considering to ensure they work in your space. All that happens before you finalize the purchase. That way, you know the forklift you're buying does what you need. With that kind of peace of mind, it's no wonder many of our high throughput clients are replacing their outdoor diesel forklifts with electric ones.

So if you're considering purchasing an electric forklift, reach out and set up a site survey. To get the ball rolling, contact our Solutions Team online or visit one of our helpful locations throughout Florida and Georgia.

Florida
Jacksonville
Lakeland
Ocala
Orlando
Tampa
Winter Haven

Georgia
Albany
Macon
Columbus
Valdosta

Further Reading
Forklift Battery Charging Methods: What’s Best for Productivity
3 Common Misconceptions About Electric Forklifts
3 Applications That Electric Forklifts Dominate