Why is Safe and Efficient Forklift Transport Necessary?
Shipping a forklift is simple…until you actually start looking for ways to ship it!
You’ve probably Googled it or asked people about it on online platforms.
Yet the answers feel vague. You are unsatisfied with the overtly technical logistic details. Or the answers just don’t tell you what you exactly need to know.
We get it. Forklift transport isn’t something you do every day.Â
You do not want delays or risk damages. Nor do you want unexpected costs.
Then how do you ship a forklift the right way? Safely. Efficiently. Without headaches.
We’ll help you with just that, giving you real tips, practical insights and even ways to save money along the way.
Let’s get started.
What is Forklift Transport?
A forklift is a powerful, industrial machine designed to lift, carry, and stack heavy material with ease. Forklifts come in different shapes and sizes.
Now, you might have one of two popular types of forklifts:
- Small Electric Models: For warehouses
- Massive Diesel-Powered Models: For shipping yards and construction sites
So, how can you ship your forklift to any location across the country?
That’s where forklift shipping comes in!
Forklift shipping refers to moving these heavy machines from one place to another using special transportation services.
How is Forklift Transport Different from Car Transport?
Shipping forklifts isn’t as straightforward as shipping your regular vehicle.
These machines are heavy. They also have unique dimensions, are shaped differently and need special care when shipping.
Here’s how the right transportation of forklifts helps you:
- Prevents damages and accidents
- Gets your forklift exactly where it needs to be on time
- Avoids extra charges for improper loading or permits
Therefore, handling forklifts is necessary. If not done properly, your forklifts may be damaged, cause safety problems, and lead to costly delays.
What are the Best Ways to Transport a Forklift?
With that in mind, let’s have a look at the best ways to transport your forklift.
In our experience, the best way to ship a forklift depends on the size and weight of your forklift and the distance it needs to cover from the source to the destination.
The most common methods include:
- Flatbed trailers
- Step Deck trailers
- Enclosed trailers
- Tilt bed trailers
So, whether you want to ship your forklift to a shorter distance or are looking to ship one through routes with harsh weather conditions, there is a shipping trailer for each shipping requirement.
The important thing is to choose the one that fits your needs.
What are the Key Factors to Consider When Shipping a Forklift?
In our experience, there are 6 factors that you must consider when shipping your forklift, and understanding each one can get you a more accurate freight shipping quote.Â
These include:
- Dimension and Weight
As we’ve seen, forklifts come in different shapes and sizes. There are small electric models and there are large industrial ones weighing over 50,000 pounds.
Knowing your forklift’s exact dimensions and weight is essential in order to choose the right trailer and avoid unexpected shipping costs.
What is worth noting is that the heavier and bulkier your forklift, the more planning (and permits) you might need.
- Permits and Regulations
Every state has its own transportation regulations and permit requirements. Therefore, you might need special permits for oversized loads, depending on your forklift’s size and the route it takes.
It’s crucial to check in advance to save yourself from fines and delays. If or when in doubt, working with an experienced shipping company can help ensure compliance.
Quick Tip: You can check with the Department of Transportation (DOT) for route-specific rules.
- Secure Loading and Unloading
Unlike regular vehicles such as cars or bikes, Forklifts need special care when being loaded and unloaded. You can use chains, straps, and wheel chocks to keep them secure during transit.
If you do not take proper precautions, your forklifts can shift or tip, leading to serious infrastructural or financial damage.
- Insurance
There is no guarantee on unavoidable accidents during transport. Forklifts are heavy and expensive machines. That’s why we recommend that you confirm the details of the insurance coverage with your shipping provider in advance.
Plus, if your forklift is of high value, ask the provider for coverage to protect against unexpected losses.
- Electric vs. Diesel Forklift
Shipping a diesel forklift is different from shipping an electric one.
Have fuel levels lowered to prevent leaks when shipping a diesel forklift. On the other hand, the batteries of your electric forklifts should be completely charged or disconnected to prevent damage.
It’s a small detail but it’s important for a safe and smooth trip.
- Weather Conditions
Extreme heat, snow and rain can affect and impact your forklift’s transport.
If the weather is bad, consider enclosed trailers and protective measures. Moreover, you should plan ahead for weather conditions to prevent unnecessary delays or damage to your equipment.
Keeping these factors in mind, you can make sure that your forklift reaches its destination safely, on time and without surprises.
How to Find a Reliable Forklift Transport Provider?
What should you look for in a transport provider to ship your forklift? A few must-haves include:
- Experience with heavy machines
- A positive customer review
- Proper licensing and insurance
- Transparent pricing and communication
- A detailed freight shipping quote
You can connect with experienced carriers using shipping marketplaces. They’re like the Amazon of shipping services. Through a shipping marketplace, you can review veteran carriers through their pricing and customer reviews to choose the right shipping service for your forklift.
How Much Does it Cost to Ship a Forklift?
It’s not a one-prize-fits-all deal when it comes to shipping a forklift.
Here’s what the cost of shipping depends on:
- Distance of shipment
- Weight and size
- Route conditions
- Seasonal demands
If you are looking for the best deals or the most accurate freight shipping quote, we recommend exploring a shipping marketplace. It will help you compare rates from multiple carriers and find the best carrier for your shipment.
And that’s it! You’re ready to safely, efficiently, and affordably ship your forklift…
