June Special: Hydraulic Service

HYDRAULIC SERVICE SPECIAL INCLUDES: - Hydraulic oil change & flush - Inspection for leaks & proper operation - Drain Fluid - Clean & replace hydraulic filters - Service in-tank strainer Call for details!

How to Choose the Right Pallet Jack

Pallets trucks/jacks are not the most exciting topic on the planet. Regardless, any business that moves large-sized inventory knows that choosing the right equipment is very cost-effective, while choosing poorly is just very costly. Mark Twain once referred to golf as a good walk spoiled. The phrase could just as easily be applied to using the wrong pallet jack, or walkie, as they’re often known. The right walkie can make short work for the operator moving a pallet around the dock in a distribution center or across a parking lot out in the field. Choosing the wrong machine can make that job as frustrating as a bad round of golf. A walkie is a piece of industrial equipment that is operated by hand and is meant to transport pallets within a facility. Choosing the best one will require looking at the type of job you need it to do, and seeing which units fit. Options include a pneumatic lift unit, an electric pallet jack, or a manual pallet jack, which is sometimes called a pallet jack. Choosing the right walkie for your operation takes careful consideration. Here are a few point to consider when deciding: •If you will need constant use of the pallet jack, which is often the case in warehouses and shipping terminals, a non-electric pneumatic unit may be the best option. •For pallets that are especially heavy, often 1,500 pounds (680 kilograms) or more, a manual unit may not be practical. •The “type” of materials in your warehouse is handling and how you want to handle them should always be a crucial factor. •For warehouses that handle a variety of pallet sizes use Multifunction Pallet Jacks such as adjustable fork width trucks or a low profile design. •For material handling jobs that aren’t indoors, it is important to find a pallet truck that is ideal for a rough environment. •Even if you intend to use a pallet jack as long as you can, it’s wise to choose the ones with highest warranty periods Whether you need just a basic manual pallet jack or a full featured electric unit that can pinwheel in a trailer, Bell Fork Lift equipment is up to the task. For More Information call us at 888-404-2575 or visit our website and request a quote at www.bellforklift.com

Bell Fork Lift is Eastern Michigan’s Award Winning Toyota Forklift Dealer

Getting your Equipment – Michigan Frost Law Restrictions

Michigan Frost Law Restrictions for Transporting Heavy Loads Spring is finally here and in Michigan, that means Frost Restrictions in the Industrial Equipment world. During the months of March through May of each year, these restrictions reduce loading provisions to protect our roads, by dropping the legal axle weights of vehicles by either 25% or 35% depending upon the road construction and design. While Michigan’s weight laws apply to all vehicles, reduced loading has the biggest impact on commercial operations, due to the size and weight of the vehicles that are used. Legal limits usually remain the same, but the routine permitted limits are restricted during this time. If you are moving or shipping heavy equipment such as forklifts and rough terrain vehicles through most Michigan regions, you must take these restrictions and the resulting added costs into consideration. You will need more axles to move these loads than you would at other times during the year, and that will always cost more. To make sure that Michigan’s Frost Restrictions don’t slow you down, it is a good idea to consult with your local Bell Fork Lift, Inc professional during this time of year, to help you prepare for the spring time purchase, rental and delivery of all your Industrial Lift Equipment and material handling needs. Call us today at 888-404-2575 for more information or visit us at  www.bellforklift.com

How to Buy a Used Forklift

 

Buying a used forklift can be confusing and overwhelming to the average person, but the first question to ask yourself is whether you need a used forklift or a new one?
Consider buying a used forklift if:
• The truck will be used only for a single shift.
• The forklift will be used for no more than five hours a day.
• The forklift will work no more than five days per week.
• The operation is not a high-throughput, nonstop type.
If you answered Yes to any of these and you decide to purchase a used forklift, you need to know how to identify used equipment with a troubled past.
• Tires: Ensure they still have some tread on them otherwise it will not maneuver properly and may be dangerous. If there is uneven wear, this may signify a misalignment in the axle.
• Mast: No external damage that is too severe (e.g. cuts, rewelding or major dints) and ensure it moves up and down according to what specs say.
• Gears/controls: Gears & controls are smooth and responsive
• Brakes: Brakes work immediately and under pressure
• Capacity Plate: Check all information on the rating plate is correct (model number, capacity etc.)
• Fluid Leaks: Look for any fluid leaks (check after the forklift truck is fully warmed up)
Prior to testing a forklift, take some time to visually examine the trucks exterior. A general assumption is that if it has been badly dented or scratched then it has been operated carelessly. Once you have assessed it visually, take it for a test drive.
For more information about new AND used equipment, call (888)404-2575 or visit bellforklift.com and request a quote for the highest quality products and services, at the best value!

Finding the Right Forklift Dealership:

Have you been overwhelmed by salespeople talking about the same quality for a better price; or telling you their service program offers high quality, at a fraction of their competitors cost?
Maybe it’s time for YOU to CHOOSE the best Forklift Dealer for your business.
Choosing the right forklift dealer usually require selecting the brand of forklift most desired first.
If brand is important, then this really needs to be decided upon first, because all future transactions will be handled through that dealer, such as warranty fulfillment and servicing; it is also best to consider a brand that has a dealer in the area that can offer fast response for the warranty and repairs.

How do you choose a forklift dealer?

A Dealer should be reputable and provide first-rate service. Important questions to ask before you evaluate the dealers.

• How long have they been in business?
• How many technicians do they have?
• Do they offer on-site service?
• What types of parts inventory do they keep on site?
• Is there a guaranteed response time in case of equipment break down?
• Will the dealer offer a demonstration at your location?

Most vendors bring the fork truck models chosen by you, to your location and allow you to use it for a couple of days and test. Also inquire about their service plans as most vendors provide preventive maintenance plans that cover filter and oil changes, general regular check-ups and transmission service.
Most of these questions and points are basic knowledge, but when you need a Dealership that is advanced in knowledge and customer satisfaction, the answer is Bell Fork Lift!
For more information visit http://www.bellforklift.com or call 888-404-2575 today.

Buying vs Rental: Lift Equipment

Buying vs Rental: Lift Equipment

When deciding whether to buy or rent an aerial work platform and/or lifts; managers should consider all options. Buying a new lift requires the most demanding decision-making because it is the most expensive and buying used equipment is the next most costly option, but with less financial impact. • Both of these buy options involve a capital expenditure. • Purchased equipment is depreciated over time • Both can be financed over time. Renting a lift is a great way to avoid large capital decisions, without long-term commitments. Choosing a rental program has many advantages over buying a Aerial lift or Forklift, including: • Being able to choose from a wide range of lifts. • Gives the option of using a different machine for different applications, rather than being stuck with one single piece of equipment. • Low-cost rental packages are often available, and additional discounts available with extended terms. • Advice and experience from experienced professionals to help you choose the right lift for the job. • Replacement Equipment is available if equipment breaks down • Routine Maintenance is included For more Information about which equipment rental will offer the best performance and terms for you, Call Bell Fork Lift at 1-888-404-2575 or visit our website at www.bellforklift.com/rentals