5 Things to Consider When Purchasing Material Handling Equipment

In the market for new warehouse equipment? You’re probably familiar with the big material handling equipment manufacturers by now. But do you know what factors to consider before you make this major purchase? There are actually five key considerations to take into account when buying new handling equipment. If you’re not sure what they are, grab some paper and a pencil and start taking notes!

1. What’s The Equipment’s Intended Function?

The very first question you should ask yourself is “How do we plan to use this piece of equipment?” Handling equipment tends to be grouped into three distinct functions:

1. Handling. This includes moving and manipulating bulk materials.

2. Storing. This relates to materials that don’t need to be moved frequently.

3. Automation. If automation is required, handling equipment will usually need to move and process materials much more efficiently.

So, after reading through the three core functions of warehouse equipment, you can now begin to narrow down your options.

2. What Type Of Material Will You Be Moving?

What exactly are you moving? It sounds silly, but it helps to compile a list of what you move on a day-to-day basis so you’ll be able to better determine what type of drum lifting equipment or forklift stacker is right for your floor. There’s handling equipment for every kind of material imaginable. Here are some additional questions to consider when making your selection:

• Are your materials sensitive?

• Are they chemicals or perishable in any way?

• How often do you need to move your materials?

• What do you do with them?

• How are your materials packaged?

• Will they be stored or processed?

• What form are your materials in?

Every warehouse or factory has its own unique process. Take some time to look at yours. The way in which you process and transport your materials can be a key factor in determining your equipment needs. By answering these questions, you can be sure you’re choosing the right equipment for the job.

3. What Type Of Space Are Your Working In?

Something that tends to be forgotten when purchasing heavy-duty lift tables or other types of handling equipment is the actual space it will be operating within. Before purchasing any type of warehouse equipment, determine the rack type, available rack aisle width, and ceiling height. Keep in mind that the price tag tends to be higher for equipment that can be operated in narrower, tighter spaces.

4. Have You Considered Employee Safety?

Safety should always be your number one priority when comparing material handling equipment manufacturers. If your workers are constantly having problems with lifting heavy materials, that definitely is an issue that needs to be addressed right away. As an employer, you’re legally responsible for complying with “duty of care” standards. What does that mean? It means you are required to provide your employees with the proper equipment to do their job and train them on how to use the equipment safely.

In addition to allowing your employees to do their job safely, utilizing warehouse equipment like hydraulic lift tables and powered stackers can prevent future accidents and improve overall productivity.

5. Are You Looking To Save Money?

If you’re looking to save a bit of money in the long run, there’s one thing you can look into when researching various material handling equipment manufacturers. Make note of handling equipment with parts that are easy to replace. While this might not seem like a big deal upfront, trust us. It will save you money over time. Easily replaceable parts can actually minimize the downtime when repairs or maintenance are needed and allow for easily trackable improvements – saving you time and money.

Let Handling Concepts Help

Handling Concepts is your one-stop-shop for material handling and warehouse safety equipment. We have a wide variety of heavy-duty lift tables, powered stackers, drum lifting equipment, and more. Whatever your handling needs, Handling Concepts can help. Have a question or need more information about our products? Reach out to our material handling experts today.