Positive news of job growth and an expanding economy has led to a significant increase in materials handling equipment sales. In some areas of the United States, unit sales of lift trucks have risen by up to 50%. This surge in demand is also putting pressure on rental forklift fleets.
Renting a Forklift
Like many businesses, you may have been relying on the same lift trucks you had before the recession. However, with a recent uptick in retail sales and shipping volume, you’re now facing a growing need for more equipment. While you might have requested new materials handling equipment, your company may be cautious about making new investments this year. So, how do you keep up with your increased shipment needs using the equipment you currently have?
Reserve that Lift!
One solution is to rent a forklift, right? If your business gets busier or if your oldest lift truck breaks down, you can always rent a replacement. But can you? Recent polls suggest that rental fleet utilization rates are at an all-time high in many regions. Moreover, manufacturing lead times for new forklifts are increasing, making it harder to quickly replace equipment.
Since many companies reduced or stopped ordering new forklifts for their rental fleets in 2008 and 2009, the availability of used equipment is limited and often expensive. In particular, certain types of equipment are in short supply, such as orderpicker rentals, reach trucks, 5,000 lb propane forklifts, and both single and double electric pallet jacks.
Plan Ahead for the Busy Season
Don’t get caught without the equipment you need during the busy holiday season. It’s a good idea to call your local forklift supplier and reserve a rental in advance. You can always cancel the reservation if you don’t need it, but having a backup plan is far better than scrambling to find a lift truck at the last minute.
Have you already reserved a rental forklift? Let us know your thoughts or share your experience with managing your forklift fleet during busy periods.