5 Tips for Getting What You Need for A 2.5T Forklift

2.5T (2 500kgs) forklifts generally are referred to, as the bread and butter of the forklift industry.  No it doesn’t mean someone puts butter on them and tries eating them.  It simply means that they have the greatest numbers of availability in the industry.

If you think that the majority of goods are moved on a CHEP pallet in Australia, and CHEP pallets are rated at 2.0T WLL. (Working Load Limit).  Its logically that the vast majority of forklifts used to move a 2.0T pallet will be a 2.5T forklift.  So great, what’s the point you ask ?

If you are looking at either buying a forklift or selling a forklift,  the odds are you will fall in to the 2.5T forklift category.

Which means you will have a vast number to choose from, it can get a bit daunting.  Here are some tips for making sure you get what you need with a 2.5T (2 500 kg) forklift :

  1. Is it new or used that you really want.

There is a lot to consider when its a new vs used decision but mostly it comes down to application, utilization and how much you want to spend.

  1. Understand your budget.

Buying a forklift is a lot like buying  a car.  You need to make sure you have a budget that you will spend, once you’ve worked out the new vs used decision

  1. Understand your application.

This becomes one of the most critical parts of the decision, If you are working in good environment operating one hour per week, unloading some pallets at a fruit shop, you probably should consider a second hand forklift. 

If you are operating in a foundry, working high hours, its probably a new forklift you want to consider.

  1. Understand your utilization.

    Working very closely with the application is the utilization, If its minimal hours per week 2 – 5 hours. See point 2, don’t spend the money unless you really have the need.

  1. Understand the brand you’re buying.

We are often asked about which brand is best. Hyster, Linde, Toyota, Komatsu. E.t.c.  We suggest looking for a reputable brand that has been on the market for years and has a aftermarket program that can support your requirements.

Its important to buy a forklift brand that you can get parts for and that your average mechanic can work on.

Take the time to work out the five things that you need to know, to make sure you are getting what you need with a 2.5T forklift.

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By John

John Condron, has had a very long varied career in heavy equipment industry. Including a 10 year stint in the USA materials handling markets. John now make a full time writing for several online publications.