There are plenty of electric forklifts in Melbourne for you to choose from. To get the most value out of your electric forklift, you need to pick the right model for your workflow so it can help you reduce your operational costs and keep your business running as efficiently as possible.
What is the Difference Between Battery Electric Forklifts and Lithium Forklifts?
Battery electric counterbalance forklifts are more affordable and have little downtime – easily swapping out the battery to get back to work quickly. It has no emissions when operating, making it a great, clean option for indoor warehouse work. Charging does take longer compared to lithium, so will need to be factored into operating time. The batteries also produce fumes while charging, so will need a separate ventilated area to accommodate this. Additionally, there is more upkeep required with battery electric forklifts.
Lithium electric forklifts are more premium, with quick recharging and battery swaps for increased uptime and no emissions even when charging. They require less maintenance compared to battery electric models, however have a higher upfront cost. So while you’re saving money in the long run, the initial investment can be hefty.
What Makes A Battery Electric Counterbalance Forklift Suitable For Warehouses?
Battery electric counterbalance forklifts are best suited to indoor warehouse operations due to their smooth, quiet performance and zero-emissions – safe for environments where ventilation or space may be limited.
They are great for warehouses that require fume-free operations, such as food and beverage businesses, cold storage facilities and retail stockrooms. They are also ideal for workplaces that need quiet operations to maintain high employee productivity high and minimise disruptions..
Electric forklifts ensure operators experience powerful and consistent lifting with reduced vibration, which keeps your team less fatigued and more productive. They are also designed for efficiency and power, with a range of load capacities to support different indoor lifting demands.
How Do Electric Forklifts Cut Costs?
Electric material handling equipment can significantly lower operating expenses. With easy recharging, running costs can be cheaper with consistent pricing based on your electricity rates – compared to the volatile pricing of most fuel types. Unlike diesel, LPG and petrol models, electric forklifts don’t need fuel or oil changes. Electric motors also have far fewer moving parts, which means they have much lower maintenance needs and less downtime.
Although they need to be regularly charged, this can be scheduled overnight or during off-peak periods, which helps manage electricity costs efficiently and reduce downtime during operating hours. And with quick battery swaps, you can reduce downtime and get back to work faster – increasing productivity and profits.
How Long Does It Take To Charge An Electric Forklift Battery?
The amount of time it takes to recharge your electric forklift depends on the type of battery that’s inside it and its size. The larger the battery in size and amperage, the longer it will take to charge.
Light capacity lithium-ion units typically reach a full charge quicker, while the lead-acid batteries tend to take longer.
Lithium-ion forklifts are better able to handle partial charges, making them more flexible for top-ups between shifts.
Where Can You Buy Battery Counterbalance Forklifts In Melbourne?
Fork Force Australia provides a wide range of Melbourne forklift sales options, including new and used battery electric counterbalance models. Our team can deliver forklifts directly to your facility across Victoria, ensuring they arrive ready for operation.
We also serve our customers with servicing, parts, repairs and advice, helping you maximise uptime and efficiency.
What Advantages Do Lithium Electric Forklifts Offer?
Lithium units charge faster than traditional lead-acid batteries and hold their charge for longer. They are more durable than lead-aid batteries with a longer lifetime, boosting the value of the batteries.
These modern forklifts can handle repeated short shifts without the same wear concerns, which makes them ideal for busy warehouses or high-turnover logistics operations.
FAQs
Q: What is the cost of an electric forklift in Melbourne?
A: Prices vary depending on the model and battery type. Fork Force can provide you with a tailored quote for both new and used equipment to suit your budget and needs.
Q: Are electric forklifts better than diesel for warehouse use?
A: Electric forklifts are best suited for indoor warehouse work due to their smooth performance, reduced emissions and quieter operations. Diesel is not recommended for indoor operations due to the fumes and noise, and can contaminate inventory.
Q: How long does it take to charge an electric forklift battery?
A: Smaller lithium-ion batteries generally take about two to three hours for a full charge, while lead-acid models may take longer, depending on the battery’s health. However, for both types, the bigger the battery and amperage, the longer it will take.
Q: Does Fork Force deliver electric forklifts to Melbourne?
A: Yes. Fork Force offers delivery, on-site setup and ongoing support throughout Victoria.
Contact Fork Force Australia today to find out more about our electric forklifts in Melbourne, including our battery electric counterbalance models, pricing, delivery and service packages tailored to your warehouse needs.