In logistics and handling scenarios, choosing the right forklift can significantly improve efficiency, while choosing the wrong one can increase costs and even create safety hazards. Many companies often fall into the mistaken trap of focusing solely on payload when purchasing. In reality, the core requirements for forklifts vary significantly across different scenarios. Below, we'll outline key selection criteria for the three core scenarios of warehousing, factory, and outdoor operations to help you avoid blind spots.

Warehousing: "Space Adaptability" is Key

Warehouse environments are often confined spaces with narrow aisles and densely packed shelves. Therefore, prioritizing access and liftability is crucial when selecting a forklift. The primary criteria are vehicle size and turning radius. For narrow-aisle warehouses, it's recommended to choose a three-way stacker or reach truck. Keep the vehicle width within 1.2 meters and the minimum turning radius ≤ 1.8 meters to avoid aisle congestion. Secondly, lift height should match the shelf height. For standard racks, a lift height of 3-5 meters is sufficient. For high-bay racks (≥8 meters), a high-bay forklift with a stabilization system is recommended. Finally, maneuverability is important. Warehouse operations involve frequent starts, stops, and turns, so electric forklifts are preferred. Their continuously variable speed design reduces cargo sway, and they are quiet, emission-free, and suitable for confined environments.

Factory Scenario: Balancing Efficiency and Safety

Factory operations often involve short-distance transport between indoor and outdoor spaces, such as from the workshop to the warehouse or batching ingredients next to the production line. The core requirements are "speed and safety." The first criteria is speed and range. We recommend a counterbalanced electric forklift with an unladen speed of ≥12 km/h and a fully loaded range of ≥6 hours to meet frequent handling needs. Second, load stability. Factory floors may have slight slopes (≤5°), so a forklift with a rollover mitigation system is recommended. The forklift's fork length should match the size of the cargo being transported to prevent it from shifting. Third, safety features are important. Factory floors often experience intersecting pedestrian and vehicle traffic, so forklifts should be equipped with audible and visual alarms, a rearview camera, an emergency stop button, and, in some cases, anti-collision radar.

Outdoor work: Durability is key.

For outdoor work exposed to the sun, rain, and rugged terrain (such as on construction sites and freight yards), the key considerations are durability and sufficient power. The primary indicator is the power type. Diesel forklifts are preferred, as they have high torque, unlimited range, and can adapt to temperature differences of -10°C to 40°C. If there are environmental protection requirements for outdoor use (such as ports), LNG forklifts can be selected. The second is the chassis and tires. A thickened off-road chassis is required, and pneumatic off-road tires (with strong grip) are preferred. If the ground is gravelly, solid puncture-resistant tires can be replaced. Finally, the protective configuration is recommended. It is recommended to install a cab canopy and anti-slip pedals, and to install protective covers on important components (such as the engine) to prevent dust and rain erosion.