Six reasons to consider a forklift attachment before buying a new machine

Bar arm clamps. Safety cages. Skips. Mops. These attachments can turn a forklift from a simple lift truck into a versatile, cost effective asset to your operation. So if you have a specialised job that requires plant machinery, before you shell out for a brand new truck, consider an attachment for your existing forklift instead.

Fork lift attachments are lifting accessories that allows you truck to lift, carry, crane, push, pull, hold, dispense, rotate and clamp with better efficiency. Most attach to the forks, but others are towed, such as salt spreaders. Fork truck attachments come in a range of sizes and capacities, so there is an attachment for any workplace and any truck.

Benefits of forklift attachments

Forklifts are incredibly durable and versatile, so the addition of a specialised attachment can transform a forklift from a simple lifting truck into a crane, or even a snow plough. There are even more benefits to forklift attachments, including:

Increased productivity 

Attachments allow forklifts to easily switch from role to role as your business demands. This allows for seamless transition between tasks without the need for parking one machine and rolling out another. This also saves on the running and maintenance of another truck.

Greater on-site safety

Forklifts are not as dangerous as other, larger machines, like cranes. With the right forklift attachments, you can increase the safety on your site and allow your team to work without fear of an accident. That having been said, forklift accidents are common, but they can be avoided thanks to some specifically designed attachments. Remember: always exercise on-site safety. 

Slashed labour costs 

As well as increased productivity, forklift attachments also reduce the cost of labour. Thanks to the variety of attachments out there, your forklift operator is also your snow plough driver, crane operator and floor cleaner. The reduction in the number of machines you have reduces the cost of paying people to drive them. Attachments make it possible to streamline your operation and keep asset costs and maintenance to a minimum.

Switching fast

Most forklift attachments, such as bins, sweepers and cages, are easily attached to your forklift. They slide onto the forks and are secured with a few bolts. This clever design essentially allows you to replace the forks with almost anything – be it a broom or a safety cage. However, others take a little more time.

Hydraulic attachments, like the ever popular double pallet handler, traditionally take much more time to switch. However, there are attachments available that allow the fast switch of hydraulic attachments in just 90 seconds.

Versatility increases productivity

In addition to there being a huge array of attachments for any situation, many attachments themselves are multi-purpose. Adjustable fork attachments allow you to access loads from narrow shelves, then load a truck with double stacks when you get out of the shelves. Safety cages can act as a mobile scissor lifts, are safer than ladders and can allow for fast, out of reach repairs. Ploughs and scoops are obviously great at clearing up your site, but are also handy ways to lift awkwardly shaped objects.

Each forklift attachment has its own unique benefits and considerations that need to taken into account before deciding which forklift attachment is most suitable for your needs. While some forklift attachments may require additional lift truck hydraulic functionality, increased productivity, safety and flexibility is always guaranteed.

Written by PHL.