How Long Do Forklifts Last?

The average forklift will last between 10,000-12,000 hours of use, which equates to 5-6 years of 8-hour operation. Some brands and models will last even longer, with some making it to 20,000 hours or 10 years.

No matter the make or model of your forklift, there are always ways to increase its lifespan. If you want to get the most out of your forklift, just follow the tips in this article.

What will increase the lifespan of a forklift?

Regular servicing

Servicing and maintenance includes everything from daily routine checks to annual and bi-annual thorough examinations. By conforming to all the recommended and mandatory safety checks, you could increase your forklift’s lifespan by as much as five years.

Routine checks should be performed before every shift. These include, but are not limited to, checking tyre pressures, checking fluid levels and checking the brakes. By checking your forklift every day before operation, you’ll be less likely to get into any accidents and will be able to address any problems before they evolve into more significant issues.

Proper forklift training

Staff must be fully trained and feel confident every time they operate their forklift. Employers should seek out reputable training providers to ensure their staff receive the best training. Staff that feel confident when driving the forklift are more likely to avoid collisions and other accidents, leading to improved staff safety and increased forklift lifespan.

Load size

Each forklift has a maximum load capacity. Exceeding this load capacity can be extremely dangerous for the driver as well as damage the forklift. Even if the load capacity isn’t exceeded, the forklift will still need power to carry heavy loads. Forklifts that operate at maximum capacity every session will likely wear more quickly than forklifts carrying lighter loads. Consider reducing the loads of a forklift if possible to slow its rate of deterioration.

Warehouse/environment maintenance

A harsh or hazardous environment can cause damage to your forklift, reducing its overall lifespan. Potholes, awkward layouts and other safety hazards may all pose a risk to your truck and should be avoided where possible. 

The temperature of the site may also play a role in a forklift’s lifespan. Operating a forklift in extreme hot or cold temperatures, or in a dusty or wet environment, may also affect how long it lasts. All of these conditions can place undue pressure on the forklift and should be avoided where possible. You should also check that you are using the forklift within the limits specified by the manufacturer.

East Midlands Forklifts is a leading provider of forklifts for customers in Loughborough, Nottingham, Derby and the surrounding areas. We offer various types of forklifts from many of the leading brands. Buy outright or hire on a flexible contract to suit your needs. We also offer professional maintenance and servicing to ensure you get maximum use from your truck.

Contact us today to place your order.