A forklift is an indispensable machine for many businesses, and whilst there are some well-maintained and affordable used forklifts for sale, often it’s more practical to hire rather than buy one. At Damoli Forklift Services, we are Melbourne’s one stop shop for forklift sales, hire, and support. We are often asked how much it costs to hire a forklift, and this is a difficult question to answer. There are several factors which determine the rental price for a forklift, so here we will look at what some of those factors are and how they play a role in the quoting process.

Rental Period

Forklift rentals are typically available in daily, weekly, and monthly increments and generally, hire fees are scaled based on the timeframe required. If you require it for less than 7 days you will pay a daily fee, if you need it for more than a week but less than a month you will pay a weekly fee and you will pay a monthly rate for any time beyond that. It is important to understand how long you will need to rent the machine for as this will help you choose the right contract length, saving you money. Most rental companies understand that projects can move quicker or slower than expected and will therefore adjust the rate if needed. For example, if you hire a forklift for 4 days but end up with it for a week or longer, a good rental company will adjust your quote to a weekly rate, which is cheaper pro-rata each day.

Operating Capacity

The higher the operating capacity and lift height, the higher the rental rate will be. The operating capacity is how much weight the forklift can safely handle. Understanding the typical dimensions and weight of your loads, as well as the required lifting height and your functionality needs will ensure you hire the right forklift that can handle your job. If your loads vary in capacity, you may want to hire a forklift with more capacity than you need, but this will cost you more.

Type of Forklift

Rental fees vary for different kinds of forklifts. Pallet jacks will cost less to hire than a telehandler forklift. The brand, age and condition of the machine may also influence the rental price; a newer model with high performance features will likely cost you more. Electric forklifts may also be more expensive to hire than their LPG counterparts. They are usually more expensive to purchase so hire companies often charge a higher rental fee. If you need a specialty forklift, please contact us and we’ll find the perfect solution for you.

Location

The location of your jobsite may also impact the hire cost. In remote areas, there may be just one equipment hire company from whom you can rent a forklift and in these instances companies often charge a premium as there is little competition.

Delivery and Pickup

Transportation costs for a forklift are mainly determined by the size of the machine and the distance it must go. Delivery and pickup can cost anywhere from $50 to $500 depending on how far it must be transported. If you have the ability to pick up the machine, you will save on these costs.

How To Get the Best Forklift Hire Rates?

Start by understanding the type, size, and weight of materials to be moved, how high they need to go, the conditions in which the forklift will operate and how long you will need to hire the forklift for – knowing all of this will help you determine which is the right forklift for your needs and ensure you receive the most cost-effective solution for your job.

For expert advice or to arrange forklift hire today, get in touch with the professionals at Damoli Forklift Services. Offering high-quality machines and very competitive rates, we are here to help you hire the right forklift for your needs and budget. Call us today on 1300 326 654 or enquire online now.

When buying a new or used forklift, LPG and electric engines offer different lifting capacities and sizes to suit different working environments. So which is better for your needs? At Damoli, we are one of Australia’s leading supplier of a wide range of forklift services including sales, rentals, repairs and maintenance. Here we will look at the pros and cons of LPG and electric forklifts to help you make a more informed decision.

Electric Forklifts

Generally speaking, electric forklifts have a longer lifespan than gas powered versions. This is because they have fewer moving components.

Electric forklifts also require less maintenance – no engine servicing, or replacing of spark plugs, oils, fluids and filters.

Electric models are environmentally friendly – with no tailpipe emissions, you will have a cleaner and safer work environment, as well as know you are doing your bit to reduce emissions into the environment.

Quiet operation – with minimal operating noise, this can significantly improve workplace comfort and safety.

Excellent manoeuvrability – usually smaller than other types of forklifts and this compact size makes them extremely moveable, and perfect for a wide range of applications.

What About the Cons?

• More expensive upfront purchase price.
• Long charging time – batteries usually require 8 hours (or overnight) to charge. Employees must remember to place the batteries on charge or risk having a forklift that is out of action for a whole work day.
• Often their lifting capacity is lower than their gas counterparts so be sure to check the capacity of the electric model you are looking at.

About LPG Forklifts

Also known as gas forklifts, LPG powered forklifts have traditionally been a popular choice for businesses who require a cost-effective and reliable forklift that can maintain full power throughout the day and is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

Lower Upfront Costs – Typically, they are significantly less expensive to purchase than electric versions, however, the costs involved in fuel and maintenance may be greater in the long run.

Less Downtime – Unlike electric forklifts, LPG models do not require hours to recharge. It generally takes around five minutes to refill or change an LPG cylinder.

Better Performance and Power – LPG forklifts have the ability to provide consistently strong power, have a better power to weight ratio and more responsive engines. Generally, gas forklifts, will be able to carry large loads at a faster rate, for a longer period of time.

High Weight Capacity – Many gas forklifts can carry loads of up to seven tonnes.

Versatility – These forklifts are suitable for outdoor usage as well as for use in larger indoor areas such as warehouses and storage facilities.

The Cons:

• They emit fumes from the tailpipe, making them more harmful to the environment and potentially harmful to employees as well.
• Ongoing servicing and maintenance is essential to keep them optimal working order, the costs of this will need to be factored into your operational budget.

Choosing the Right Forklift for Your Business

Whether purchasing a new or used forklift, it’s essential to consider your application and its needs. For food distributions centres or facilities with less ventilation, narrow aisles or confined spaces, an electric forklift, with no operating fumes and quieter operation, will be the better solution. However, if your forklift will be required both in and outdoors on a regular basis and needed to lift heavy loads for long periods of time, then a gas forklift will be ideally suited. If you are unsure, it is best to seek a professional option – reach out to the team at Damoli for expert recommendations to suit the individual needs of your business. Call us today or get in touch with us online.

If you are looking to buy a forklift for your business, it makes sense to purchase a used model. Requiring a significantly lower financial outlay than buying new, used forklifts are often a more viable option for businesses of all sizes. However, there’s a few things you need to look for to ensure the used forklift you buy is a worthwhile investment that will be reliable for many years to come. Damoli has grown to become one of Victoria’s largest independent forklift hire and sale companies. Read on for a few important things to check when you are looking to purchase a used forklift.

Paintwork

Look for a used forklift with a new paint job or original paint that is in good condition. A few scratches and scrapes are ok, however, extensive rust, large dints and obvious impact damage is not. Forklifts featuring decals are better for resale value too.

Forks and Mast

Check the forks for any cracks or significant bending caused by overloading. Large, deep cracks can make it unsafe for a forklift to lift a load at full capacity. Check the fork heels for signs of wear – the thickness of the heel forks should be a similar thickness to that of the upright fork shank. Inspect the mast for any cracks or welds, and ensure the mast pins, and tilt and side-shift cylinders are secure. It is also important to check for signs of excessive wear on mast rollers, and signs of damage on the lift chains or anchor pins.

Engine

Start the engine of the used forklift, it should start easily and idle smoothly.

• Check for engine oil leaks, dirt build-up or cracks on hoses.
• Check that belts are tight and not worn or cracked.
• Rev engine hard in neutral and check the tailpipe for blue or black smoke. Exhaust should be minimal if LPG, and free from excessive odour.
• If electric, also check that all battery connections are in good condition.

Lifting Gear

Check lifting speed is steady and constant. Move back and forward at full extension, the engine should not stall. When lowering, movement should be smooth and steady, all stages should move seamlessly with no jamming.

Hydraulics

Check all visible hoses for leaks. If you notice any greenish or golden hydraulic oil under the forklift this may be a cause for concern. Move mast to full tilt and check for leaks again while under pressure. Levers should move easily and operation should be smooth for all controls.

Operation

Take the forklift for a drive. Move around in a tight circle, backwards and forwards. Check the brake and accelerator. Flashing lights on the roof and the reversing beeper should be in proper working order.

Tyres

All tyres should be evenly worn, with enough usage left on them. Solid and cushion tyres should be free from major tears and damage. Pneumatic tyres should have adequate air pressure.

This is a guide only, there are other components that may need to be inspected and if you are unsure, it is best to seek a professional option before purchasing.

Also keep in mind when shopping for a used forklift, that you will have to consider your budget. If your budget is on the low side, you may have to make allowances for a machine that will not meet all of the above criteria. However, for any minor problems ask if they can be fixed prior to purchase, to put your mind that ease that your new investment will be a reliable and safe addition to your workplace.

Looking for a Used Forklift? Get in Touch with Damoli

Our experts are here to help you choose the right forklift for your needs and budget. Whether it’s electric, LPG or diesel powered, or a new or used machine, we have huge range of reliable forklifts for sale at highly competitive prices. Browse our forklifts for sale online or contact us for more information.

Are you looking to purchase a new forklift to maximise efficiency and productivity in your workplace? You might be wondering whether you should invest in a traditional counterbalance forklift or a sophisticated reach forklift. Both are indispensable to businesses throughout many sectors, and each type has its own unique features and benefits. Damoli Forklift Services is Melbourne’s one-stop shop for forklift sales, hire, and transport. Here we will look at counterbalance and reach forklifts to help you make the best decision for your needs.

What is a Counterbalance Forklift?

With incredible versatility and proven performance, counterbalance forklifts have long been established as the leaders in the lifting industry. With dual forks at the front to transport heavy loads, these forklifts incorporate a heavy counterweight that off-sets the weight of the load being carried in front.

• Available in a variety in fuelling options (LPG, petrol, diesel, battery), sizes, and designs.
• Greater ground clearance – a better choice for uneven surfaces or outside applications.
• Engineered to safely lift a wide range of weights ranging from 1.8T up to 48T.
• Can be fitted with a wide variety of attachments (ramps, rotators, carpet poles).

Without the counterweight, these forklifts would become extremely unbalanced when picking up heavy loads and be at risk of tipping forwards or over.

What is a Reach Forklift?

Also known as a reach truck, a reach forklift derives its name from the distinctive way in which its fork carriages can reach into racking. This is achieved by its two outer legs; these distribute the load weight and prevent it from tipping.

• Compact size – with legs for stability and heavy electric batteries on board, there is no need for a counterbalance weight. This allows for the reach forklift to have a more compact body.
• More Manoeuvrable – reach forklifts can operate in narrow aisles (2.4 meters), whereas a counterbalance forklift’s minimum requirement is around 3.7 meters. This means there is large reduction in the turning circle of the forklift, making it easier to navigate tighter spaces.
• Smaller profile – in addition to their smaller design, a reach forklift’s cargo is lifted back within the wheelbase, ensuring a smaller profile even when fully loaded.

It’s important to keep in mind that not all reach forklifts are designed the same. Some use a scissor mechanism, which allows for single or double reaching into racking. Others use a hydraulic system of rails which enables the entire mast to move forwards. You should take into consideration all options and ask for expert advice from a forklift specialist so that you can invest in the reach forklift that will be best suited to your specific needs.

Which Forklift Type is Best?

For indoor environments, especially those with narrow aisles and higher shelves to reach, a manoeuvrable machine that is capable of reaching in excess of ten meters makes the reach forklift an ideal solution. For outdoor work, or where a machine is needed both indoors and outdoors, a counterbalance forklift would be the better option. Counterbalance forklifts are also best for general material handling and heavier loads, and for workplaces with open spaces.;

Choosing the Right Forklift for You

Selecting the most appropriate forklift for your work environment can increase productivity and improve safety, potentially saving you large amounts of time and money. Ultimately, deciding which forklift is best for you will be determined by your worksite and the tasks that the machine will be required to undertake on a daily basis. For genuine advice, get in touch with the team at Damoli today. With decades of experience, we can suggest and source the right forklift to suit your needs and budget. Call 1300 326 654 to discuss your forklift requirements with our friendly professionals.

Using a forklift generally means your end-goal is to safely move your products from A to B. But in actual fact, there are plenty of types of these vehicles now on the market, overwhelming you when it comes to taking your pick. Carefully assessing your needs and doing your research at the outset will ensure you cut down on unnecessary costs and free up your time in the long-run.

So if you’re on the hunt and wondering where to start, a good question to ask yourself is whether your business requires a sit-down or stand-up vehicle. What applications will you need it for and how often will it be used? In this post, we’re guiding you through the process of making an informed decision about buying your new forklift.

What are the differences between a sit-down and stand-up forklift?

Sit-down options generally give you the choice of three or four-wheel models. This is where you’ll need to think about your specific needs, as three-wheelers are better at maneuvering in smaller spaces.

A sit-down forklift is also more efficient for an operator that doesn’t need to leave their seat to shift around products, and also provides far more comfort if they’re working for a long period of time.

However, not all spaces or operations allow for sit-downs to be used, generally because of space limitations or the workload at hand. Stand-up options are fantastic for saving space and can work more efficiently in confined spaces, due to the improved turning radius. They also allow for better visibility for the driver, in comparison to the sit-down where you only have the ability to see at the front.

How to decide on a forklift for your needs

When you finally find yourself scratching your head over a few models, it’s time to ask yourself a few essential questions:

• How far will the operator need to travel at a time? Will they need to get on and off the machine?
• How much space will the operator have available to move the vehicle around? Will they need to tackle sharp corners?
• Will the forklift be used for long periods of time across the day?
• What type of flooring will it need to operate on?
• Are there any accessories or attachments that need to be used?
• What kinds of products will it be moving?

Comfort is important

Remember that, while all the bells and whistles are exciting, it’s driver comfort that matters most. Constantly twisting your body to improve visibility can cause issues and discomfort for the driver, and fatigue from constantly standard can become a major hazard.

No matter what type you choose, it’s also important that the operator goes through all the necessary training to ensure proper usage.

If you’re not sure where to start in making a choice, we highly recommend getting in touch with the team at Damoli for a no-obligation discussion.

Across the manufacturing industry, industrial forklifts are used far and wide, acting as an essential asset for a variety of businesses. Providing the ability to move more substantial and larger objects or loads, these vehicles offer warehouses and yards significant efficiency.

However, when not operated correctly, this type of machinery can cause serious injuries, or in extreme cases – death.

Because of these risks, it’s crucial that any business utilising forklifts provide their workforce and staff with high-quality training, permits and licensing. No one should get behind the wheel until each of these boxes are checked off.

In order to help you, as a business owner, understand the implications and risks associated with these vehicles, we’ve put together a few considerations to keep in mind.

Capacity matters: overweight and unbalanced loads

Naturally, we assume forklifts are at their most dangerous when they’re moving, but those in the vicinity can still be in danger if the vehicle is stationary. If lift trucks are in the middle of loading and unloading, practices that aren’t up to scratch can cause serious ramifications.

The most common types of accidents associated with forklifts are usually related to overweight or unbalanced loads. No matter what kind of vehicle you’re using, there will always be clear and concise instructions on how much it can handle in weight. Failing to stick to these can cause the driver, and those around them, to be in direct danger.

Managing traffic

The space where forklifts are operated tends to have pedestrians and staff going about their day too. It’s essential to keep these traffic streams are kept separate – be it through individual roadways, elevated platforms to walk on or other alternative ways to get around.

Business owners also need to make sure the entire space is well-lit and has a good line of sight; this allows for collisions to be avoided, as operators can see where oncoming traffic may pop up.

Beyond this, there are a number of traffic management programs and training courses that allow staff to balance machinery and limited space safely.

Maintenance is key

It goes without saying that, just like all other machinery, forklifts require frequent servicing. This includes inspections to ensure there are no hidden problems that might lead to serious injuries in the future.

Above all, storing the vehicle is also crucial to the safety of those in the warehouse. Additionally, carefully dedicating a space to your machinery will ensure you’re not putting it at risk of elements, such as rust or general wear and tear, and will keep it out of harm’s way.

Tip: Never leave your forklift idling for an extended period of time, or in an enclosed area. Harmful fumes from carbon monoxide can cause those working in the space to feel disorientated, light-headed or nauseous. Always ensure the area has plenty of ventilation and that the forklift is turned off when not in use.

Not sure if your forklift needs a bit of TLC? Get in touch with the team at Damoli now.

Choosing the best tyre for your forklift

What are the different types of tyres for forklifts?

• Puncture-proof: The most common type, this option is the same as pneumatic but isn’t filled with air. Therefore, they don’t provide any cushioning during operation but don’t puncture or go flat. They are most suitable in indoor environments or for light outdoor applications.
• Cushion: This press-on tyre is crafted with a unique metal band and rubber attached. Used on pavements that are smooth (such as in warehouses), they can sometimes be an issue if you need to work with tight turns.
• Pneumatic: Similar to those used on trucks, pneumatic tyres are filled with air and consists of a deep, thick tread. They’re durable and long-lasting and can extend the life of your forklift overall. Best used in uneven or rough areas.
• Polyurethane: Only for indoor spaces, they are pressed on to the actual wheel and provide a good level of traction. You’ll most likely see them on reach trucks.
• Non-marking: Completely solid, they are designed to stop black marks appearing on the flooring. You’ll find these in food-processing factories or grocers where they need to use them carefully, without wearing the surface. Because the carbon black is taken off the design, their life span is typically shorter.
• Foam fill: Filled with a resin that gives constant pressure, these designs are like air tyres and provide a cushion-like effect. They also eliminate the risk of puncturing.

No matter what it is, purchasing any kind of secondhand product can be a daunting experience, especially when you don’t know what to look for. From knowing what specifications to keep an eye on, through to understanding the limitations of your budget, there are a lot of variables. When it comes to buying a used forklift in Melbourne, there can be a lot to consider, especially if you haven’t done it before. Whether this is your first piece of secondhand machinery or you consider yourself an expert – here’s a few tips to make your experience that little bit easier.

Learn the basics

Before you even start your search, you need to get the low-down on the fundamentals. Take the time to learn as much as you can about forklifts in general and what the current used market looks like. By gaining a better understanding of these vehicles and how they work, you can refine your expectations before you hit the web to begin your hunt. Start reading articles and even consider taking a look at some manuals to gain extra knowledge – every bit of research goes a long way.

Know what you’re looking for

Before you start your search, it’s important to work out exactly what you’re looking for. Take the time to pinpoint if there’s a specific model or brand that perfectly suits your needs, or perhaps just general requirements that are essential to your worksite.

Allocate a budget and make sure it’s realistic, otherwise, your secondhand steal may turn out to be better suited to the wreckers. It’s also important to think about what size forklift you need, so ask yourself around whether it will be used indoors or outdoors, or what kind of space you’ll be restricted to. Beyond this, consider the amount of weight of the loads you’ll be frequenting.

Once you start to ask yourself these questions, you can gain a refined idea of what you’ll need to keep an eye out for. Make sure you also consider how often your forklift will be used and for what duration, as this can impact your final decision. For example, if you intend on only using the forklift for a few hours a week, you can probably get away with a machine that’s a bit older.

Be prepared

Once you’ve found some potential options during your search, it’s important to be prepared when it comes to seeing the forklift in person. Make sure you show up with any questions you might have, including things you’d like to know about the machine you might purchase.

For example, you might want to know more about the service history or how many owners it has had. It can also pay off to look at online reviews for the dealer, if there are any, or asking around to see if anyone has any experiences with the company – all of which we can provide to you at Damoli.

By taking all of these things into account, you can be sure that you have a solid understanding of the used forklift you’re after, and ensure you’re with your investment as an end-result.

These days, warehouse technology is advancing and the demands of Melbourne worksites using them means it’s a challenge to find equipment that fits all needs like a glove. Vital to a majority of modern industrial and commercial businesses, forklifts are one of these essentials. Because of this, it’s important to invest in buying a new model that’s up to scratch, regularly maintained and easy enough to use.

Reducing workplace risks is half the priority when it comes to stock management and flow, and having a new forklift readily on hand can minimise liability greatly. In the end, the type of machinery you choose will determine just how easy it all operates, but there are also some handy tips you can keep in mind in order to operate yours like a pro.

Key ways to drive a forklift like an expert

1. Assess your surroundings: Firstly, make sure you take the time to look up while driving. Any low-hanging obstacles could damage the equipment or worse – yourself. Make sure there is nothing in the way in your path, including those around you. And don’t forget to assess things on the ground, too – not just overhead.
2. Use safe heights: Keep the loads that you carry low to the ground. The higher you carry the stock, the more likely they are to become unbalanced. To avoid damaging the load, machinery or those around you, make sure to abide by this rule.
3. Try not to get distracted: Forklift drivers in Melbourne – in general – have less supervision than others in the workplace. This job comes with more freedom, but do not let it get the best of you. You still need to minimise talking to others and avoid becoming unfocused or lazy.
4. Carefully work out how to utilise ramps: One of the hardest parts of driving this type of machinery is finding your balance on ramps. Make sure that everyone who will be operating the vehicle has had some practice using ramps efficiently. If your staff are also light in weight, with not a lot to keep them balanced on the vehicle, there’s also the risk of becoming unbalanced. To combat this, they’ll need to master how to move up and down ramps with plenty of practice and training.
5. Know your limits: How you’re feeling on the day actually has a lot to do with how well you’ll drive any new forklift. From maintaining an energising, healthy diet to keep you focused, through to remaining alert as much as possible – all of this will help you stay alert in case challenges arise.

Some of these tips may seem obvious but reinforcing them when you are preparing to buy a new forklift in Melbourne, or before gearing up to use the vehicle, is crucial for maintaining the best possible performance.

Looking to replace your existing forklift, or need help finding one for your Melbourne business? Get in touch with Damoli now by contacting us on 1300 326 654.

It’s a common nightmare for every warehouse manager: it’s the start of a new workday, and as you go to start up your trusty Toyota forklift… nothing. No matter how hard you try, it won’t budge. And although Toyotas have a strong reputation for reliability, there are occasions where things just seem to go wrong.

Trying to fix the problem, without knowing what you are looking for, can lead to wasting time, and even potentially cause further damage to the issue at hand. Instead of struggling around and going in blind, your best bet is to have a certified professional repair or service the forklift.

However, if you’re looking for some simple troubleshooting exercises, there are ways you can identify and fix the problem yourself quickly. Here’s our handy guide to taking the DIY approach.

Common reasons your forklift won’t start

These are often the first places you should start looking, even if nothing is popping out at you. Thoroughly examine each aspect to ensure you’re not missing a hidden fault. To get started, check out the following:

Fuel source

Is the forklift receiving fuel efficiently? This may seem obvious, but it’s possible there’s something blocking the way or causing issues.

Electric functions

Consider when the lift truck was last charged and if it was correctly connected to a charging point after use.  Additionally, observe whether there were any electrical surges or power outages which may have affected the charging process.

Check the power

Are you getting any power to any part of the forklift at all? If you’re not sure, test out auxiliary functions, such as the brake or lights to see the output.

Internal combustion (IC)

For gas or diesel engines, consider how long the fuel has been sitting in the tank. If it hasn’t received a full refill recently, it’s likely the fuel has seen better days.  Additionally, if you notice a more potent smell of fuel than you usual, there may be a leak happening – something that must be looked at immediately.

Beyond fuel, check the forklift’s oil level and ensure the fuel valve hasn’t popped open somehow. Above all, if there’s not enough fuel in the actual tank, it’s time for a top-up.

The battery

Before you start trying to fix something that isn’t broken, check to see if the battery is causing the problem. If the headlights aren’t shining bright or if they happen to dim when you blow the horn, there’s likely an issue in the battery area.

Headlights

If the headlights are completely dead, then it’s most likely related to a blown main power fuse or connection – such as loose ends or corrosion. It’s best to leave this kind of problem for a service professional.

If, after all these steps, you’re still experiencing issues, make sure you take your vehicle to an expert or service professional who can take a look at all facets of the problem.

Not sure where to get started? Damoli is a one-stop shop for Forklifts Hire or Sale. Speak to our team on 1300 326 654 today.