Tag: Lift Truck

Southeast Industrial Equipment is a Toyota lift truck dealer dedicated to all lines of equipment we offer. Browse our new and used equipment, request a rental, service, parts, training and experience the SIE full solution to all of your materials handling needs.

A Safe Lift Needs a Safety List 5 NEW Forklift Safety Tips

Posted on by SIElift

Consider this – cars need oil changes and tires aligned on a regular basis to ensure reliability, safety, and efficiency. Much like cars, forklifts need to be regularly maintained and can be done with a Planned Maintenance schedule. Not only will Planned Maintenance help extend the life of your forklift, it will decrease downtime, increase productivity and increase efficiency. During a Planned Maintenance appointment safety features are checked thoroughly, parts lubricated, fluids leveled, and much more. Facilities and operators rely on forklifts for daily operations, therefore, having even one machine down could be detrimental to the days success.

In August of 2013 a man from Macon County, North Carolina died from CO (Carbon Monoxide) emissions. The North Carolina division of Occupational Safety and Health determined the CO was being emitted by a liquid propane gas powered forklift. It was emitting such high levels of CO that people outside the facility could have been exposed. Performing preventive maintenance would have caught the leak, and may have prevented this tragic loss of life. In material handling, safety is the number one concern for companies and operators.

The type of planned maintenance your forklift needs depends on the type of machine you have. There are gas and propane units as well as electric.

ForkliftSafety

Here is where the NEW – yet old faithful – forklift safety tips come into play…

Forklift maintenance and safety is key, however at Southeast Industrial Equipment we also believe that training the operator of your forklift is just as important. If not more. When your warehouse, distribution center, or facility is poorly lite, loud, and/or has narrow aisles you need highly trained operators to keep the entire operation as safe as possible. Here are some tips to keep everyone from your operators, to pedestrians in and around the forklifts safe at all times.

  1. Be aware of your surroundings
    • Additional safety lights should be added to your forklift for greater visibility and pedestrian awareness.
    • Utilizing the forklift back-up alarms and horns to let everyone around you know you are approaching.
    • Being space-conscious when working in and around narrow aisles whether your operators are working side by side on different lift trucks or they are around customers in facility.
  2.  Utilizing Forklift and Fleet Management Technology
    • T-Matics is Toyota’s Fleet Management system that can measure and manage accountability of your operators as well as the damages done to your machines. Keeping costs down and safety at the tip of the spear.
    • The customization options for forklifts are endless. To keep individuals off the machines that should not be on them technology can added to our forklifts to keep the lift from starting if it is not the operator that drives that specific piece of equipment.
  3. Knowing the Correct Forklift Capacities and Sticking to the PM Schedules
    • In demanding situations it is easy to disregard the forklift lifting capacity. Not only is it unsafe for everyone around the unit, it is unsafe for the operator because of instability.
    • Recognizing necessary repairs and sticking to a Planned Maintenance schedule will help increase safety and decrease accidents in the workplace.
  4. Choosing Safe Everyday Practices
    • Eliminating slip, trip, and fall hazards so that pedestrians and equipment can maneuver around the facility with ease.
    • Having associates and operators wear appropriate clothing such as, reflective vests or steel toe boots can immensely increase safety in a facility.
  5. Only Trained and Certified Operators Operating the Forklifts
    • By-pass OSHA and other fines by training operators for the specific forklift they will be operating. Maneuvering a sit-down counterbalance forklift is much different than a stand-up order picker or man-up lift. We offer Train-the-Trainer courses, safety training, and on-site operator training, as well as, many other programs. OSHA requires it and SIE offers it!

President and CEO of Toyota Material Handling North America, Brett Wood, predicts how important safety is and will be in the future of the material handling industry:

“[…] safety design, ergonomic design, productivity factors. If you combine those three together, together they work together in the forklift of the future. If you have a safe, comfortable operator you have a productive operator[…]” – Brett Wood President/CEO Toyota Material Handling North America

 

… According to Toyota Industrial Equipment no matter what type of lift truck you have, you need to have the following preventive measures taken:

  • Ask for Operator concerns/input
  • Clean Machine
  • Clean Grease Fillings and Lubricate
  • Check Upright Assembly
  • Check Parking Brake Operation
  • Check Service Brake Operation
  • Check/Fill Master Cylinder
  • Inspect Brake Pedal Linkage
  • Inspect Hydraulic Cylinders and Hoses
  • Check Tilt Cylinder Anchors
  • Inspect tires
  • Clean or replace hydraulic sump breather
  • Check and lubricate shafts and levers
  • Check steering for operation
  • Check lights, horns, backup alarm and gauges
  • Inspect data plate and decals
  • Inspect safety seat belts and hood latch
  • Visually inspect Load back rest and Overhead guard
  • Check battery; add water and clean
  • Check battery cables and receptacles
  • Check/fill transmission/differential oil levels
  • Check/fill hydraulic oil level.
  • Check Fork Wear/Chain Wear/Carriage wear

Note: Some preventative maintenance items that are performed for specific types of lift trucks are not listed.

Southeast Industrial Equipment has maintenance programs to fit the needs of your lift truck. SIE is dedicated to help maintain the safety and performance of your facilities forklifts. For more information please call us (866) 696-9125 or visit our website at www.sielift.com.

Parker, Brittney. “Forklift ruled likely cause of farm tragedy.” Macon County News 08 08 2013, n. pag. Web. 14 Jan. 2014.

“Forklift Planned Maintenance.” Toyota-Lift of Minnesota. N.p.. Web. 15 Jan 2014. link to article.

Introducing Landoll Forklifts

Posted on by Juliet

The addition of the Landoll Drexel & Bendi very narrow aisle forklifts enables us to substantially expand our ability to help our customers increase their space utilization and pallet density.

Our goal is to provide our customers with the full solution to their application. Here at SIE we can assist in engineered solutions, space planning, and warehouse supplies, in addition to finding the right material handling equipment to suite your needs. Bendi articulating and Drexel SwingMast® forklifts provide the material handling solution needed for very narrow aisle applications through space optimization, improved productivity, greater flexibility and maximizing efficiency.

Southeast Industrial Equipment is now a proud dealer of Landoll Drexel & Bendi forklifts.

Whether storing standard pallets to 41 feet or handling odd shaped long loads, Landoll has the right Narrow Aisle Solution with a wide range of models, capacities, and power options. By design, neither the Bendi nor the Drexel SwingMast® swing the rear end while stacking so product and rack damage is minimized during product put away or retrieval.

  • Bend8Bendi – The leader in articulated forklifts
  • DrexelDrexel – The very narrow aisle and narrow aisle long load side loading solution.

 

Landoll manufactures two lines of Narrow and Very Narrow Aisle forklifts perfect for loading and unloading containers / trailers and then taking the product directly into your narrow aisle warehouse. The Drexel can withstand freezer storage with temperatures as low as -22 degrees Fahrenheit with the new freezer cab enclosure making it perfect for cold storage applications.

  1. The Bendi Electric or IC powered forklifts provide the world’s first 180° articulating mast, front wheel steered design, providing unmatched maneuverability in narrow aisle storage. The Bendi can store pallet loads from aisles as narrow as 72 inches to lift height of 492 inches. Available in Electric and LP Gas models.
  2. The Drexel SwingMast® fork trucks are electric or IC powered and have a 90° rotating and shifting mast that operate as a front or side loader that can stack pallets or long loads in aisles as narrow as 56 inches and lift to a height of 372 inches.

Landoll also manufactures two other models of electric forklifts.

  1. A Drexel EX (UL Certified explosion proof) front loading lift truck is designed to operate in hazardous flammable atmospheres.
  2. Landoll also manufactures a stand up compact forklift, the LSC, which provides a low cost solution for increased efficiency when stacking or performing dock work, working in bulk storage or on the manufacturing floor and while stacking in drive in racking.
View more Landoll Very Narrow Aisle Forklift videos here.

Browse all of the material handling and industrial equipment we offer. We have the new or used piece of equipment you’ve been looking for, so please call (866) 696-9125, e-mail us contacts@sielift.com, or visit one of our nine material handling dealerships to purchase or lease today.

Toyota 2015 Product Launches

Posted on by Juliet

Ready for the New Toyota Products Launched in 2015? Southeast Industrial Equipment attended the RDAC 2015 conference and came back with a wealth of knowledge after taking part in a hands on product launch of the new Reach Truck, 80-Volt Electric, and a High Capacity Internal Combustion forklift. The product launches culminate months of product development, with eight new Toyota models and services introduced in the last two years. For more information contact a territory managers at one of our local branches.

New Reach Truck
Toyota’s new 9 series Reach Truck features more than 500 engineering changes to increase quality, reliability, and durability. The Reach Truck is available in 2,500-4,500 pound capacities. With world class engineering and dependability, Toyota’s new Reach Truck is the perfect solution for your warehouse. Toyota’s Reach Truck comes in single and double reach models to help you utilize your warehouse space more efficiently. Choose between 24-volt or 36-volt power as well as battery compartments as short as 14.5 inches to as long as 21.5 inches. Longer maintenance intervals and the numerous engineering improvements make the Toyota Reach Truck the elite warehouse solution!

New 80 – Volt
Toyota’s new 80-Volt Electric forklift is available in 4,00-7,00 pound capacities and functions similar to the mid electric pneumatic forklift. No longer do you need an internal combustion forklift for your big, rough terrain, outdoor jobs. The 80-Volt is designed to work outdoors, reduce maintenance, improved ergonomics and increased productivity, and are proven to have twice the run time as the 38 and 48-Volt models. It features the largest battery of Toyota’s electric forklifts while producing zero emission.

New High Capacity IC Forklift
Toyota’s New High-Capacity IC Pneumatic Forklift is the largest forklift in Toyota’s product line. With a lift capacity up to 72,000 lbs., this large, rugged forklift can handle almost any heavy load. Commonly found loading and unloading large shipping containers or on the construction site, the High-Capacity IC Pneumatic Forklift provides lifting solutions for extremely heavy applications. This forklift demonstrates that Toyota is truly dedicated to it’s role as a full-line supplier and solutions partner for our customers.

What to Expect when Renting

Posted on by SIElift

Not sold on the idea of investing all your capital into one piece of equipment? Or maybe you have one specific task you need a forklift for. Don’t worry, you have options! As well as having material handling equipment for sale, we also have a rental fleet to meet your short or long term needs! We do daily, weekly and monthly rentals depending on your time frame.

Many companies prefer to rent long term instead of purchasing for budgeting reasons. Having a monthly rental payment is perfect for a new company with no credit, or a company that doesn’t want to pay a large upfront cost. Short term rentals are great to be able to get your projects completed without committing to purchasing equipment. To make sure we get you the equipment you need, we will need to make sure we have all the information. For example if you are renting a forklift we need to know:

  • Will the lift truck be used indoors or outdoors?
  • Do you need LPG (liquid propane gas), electric, or diesel?
  • What is the mast height requirement?
  • What capacity is needed?
  • What attachments will you need? (i.e. carton clamp, bale clamp, multiple load handler)
  • If you need forks, what size? We offer 36” forks to 96”.

To keep our units in prime condition they are all inspected, painted, labeled with OSHA compliant safety decals, and receive regular maintenance before being rental ready. The average age of our rental fleet is 3 years, with supplemental equipment being added each year to fit the needs of our customers.

Our rental fleet features Toyota forklifts, the number one lift truck in America since2002. With fuel efficiency and the System of Active Stability, you know your rental will be safe and reliable. If for any reason you do need maintenance, it is included for you.

We don’t only offer forklift rentals we have a wide variety of industrial equipment to fit your needs;  Genie scissor lifts, Capacity yard spotters, Advance Sweeper Scrubbers to name a few.

Call today to set up your rental, (866) 696-9125!

Toyota – Leader in being Green

Posted on by SIElift

greentoyota

“Toyota is committed to environmental responsibility, and it’s a role we take very seriously. Beyond pushing the bounds of product innovation, one of Toyota’s goals is to support environmentally appropriate and socially beneficial initiatives contributing to a cleaner environment.”

Brett Wood, Chairman of Toyota Material Handling, U.S.A., Inc.
https://www.toyotaforklift.com/pages/about-us/environmental-focus/reducing-our-carbon-footprint.aspx#sthash.FaOrtsFI.dpuf

Toyota Material Handling has always been a leader when it comes to protecting the environment. In 2009 Toyota introduced the first ever Hybrid forklift in Japan. It combines the best of electric and internal combustion technology, taking advantage of the strengths of each power source. The forklift combines an internal combustion engine, electric generator and battery in a design that allows the engine to operate with optimum fuel/emissions efficiency. The forklift shifts automatically between battery and engine modes, simultaneously recharging the battery during operation. The result is a forklift that cuts emissions in half and is twice as fuel efficient. They are always looking for innovative new ways to benefit the environment.

The 8-series LPG and Diesel lifts highlight Toyota’s leadership in being green. The 8-series exceeds federal EPA emission standards, and also complies with California’s emission standards. Emission standards in California are stricter than the federal EPA requirements. They’re more stringent on hydrocarbon and nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, which become smog, from vehicles. California also has requirements that older construction vehicles be retrofitted so that they operate cleaner, emitting fewer gases into the atmosphere.  The result for the LPG truck is 70% less smog forming emissions than Federal EPA standards. In addition, the 8-Series diesel models meet the more stringent EPA Interim Tier 4 emission standards, which means 26% less particulate matter than the Tier 3 standard. These machines increased the amount of recyclable parts used, as well as reduced the use of harmful substances during manufacturing.  Toyota didn’t stop there; for every new 8-series forklift that was sold in 2013 they partnered with the Arbor Day Foundation to have a tree planted in a national forest damaged by fire or other natural causes. Over 30,000 trees were planted throughout the US and Canada.

Toyota’s energy-saving measures have enabled the company’s manufacturing plant to reduce CO2 emissions by 120,000 tons over the past five years. They are also a zero-landfill facility. Toyota encourages everyone to adopt green initiatives into daily applications. Even simple things such as carpooling or an energy-efficient lighting system can reduce our carbon footprint, and benefit the environment.

https://www.toyotaforklift.com/pages/about-us/environmental-focus/what-you-can-do.aspx

https://www.toyotaforklift.com/pages/about-us/environmental-focus/redefining-environmental-responsibility.aspx

https://auto.howstuffworks.com/fuel-efficiency/fuel-economy/carb2.htm

 

https://www.toyotaforklift.com/pages/about-us/toyota-philosophy/environmental-focus/future-vehicles.aspx

Let us Help Lift your Business

Posted on by SIElift

If you’re in the material handling industry chances are you need a fleet of lift trucks. Deciding whether to use electric or fuel powered trucks can be difficult. The forklift’s application will determine what type you need for your business.

Electric forklifts have no harmful emissions, and are extremely quiet in use. The battery acts as a counterbalance, this combined with the counterweight makes them highly maneuverable, stable and compact in size. The center of gravity is very low providing stability even at greater lift heights. Electric forklifts have only an accelerator and brake pedal, no clutch or inching pedal, making them less complicated to drive. Though the initial cost may be higher than fuel powered forklifts, their maintenance and servicing cost are considerably less over the lifetime of the truck. They are mechanically simple having no transmission or torque converter. With Electric trucks you will need a charging station and it takes about eight hours to fully charge a battery. Their ideal use is inside away from moisture, and they are great in tighter spaces.

If your application is outside, on a rough terrain, and you need a large lifting capacity, diesel is the way to go. Diesel forklifts are also great if you require attachments, because have the extra power needed. These trucks are available anytime day or night, with no charging or battery charging station required. These trucks generally hold their value, and have a higher residual. The engine componentry is very sturdy and operates at low “revs” so the trucks have a long life span. Diesel trucks also have a fuel gage to let you know when it’s time to refill. These trucks are the goliath of lift trucks with capacities over 50,000lbs.

Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) forklifts have always been popular with their competitive pricing and diverse indoor/outdoor usage. They are convenient and work around the clock. Parts are readily available due to the engines being derived from car engines. They are at the top list when it comes to travel speeds, rates of acceleration, and lift speeds, making them highly sought after. LPG powered forklifts also do not require charging or a charging station. Their versatility is great when you need a truck to perform inside and outside. Though it is an internal combustion engine they are still very quiet with low vibrations for driver comfort.

Let us come out to view your application and help you decide what the best lift truck is for your needs. We sell new and used lift trucks; view our inventory at www.sielift.com or call us (866)-696-9125.

https://www.bendigomitchell.com/kb/forklift-power

Be a Mast Master, a Capacity Connoisseur, and a Safety Specialist

Posted on by SIElift

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Teenagers are required to have a drivers permit prior to receiving a full license. He or she needs proper guidance, training, and practice. The same is true when becoming a licensed forklift operator. These machines are 9000lbs or more depending on their capacity; they also steer from the rear, and have the capability to lift thousands of pounds. OSHA (Occupational Health and Safety Administration) requires forklift certification of employees operating these machines so it is important to make sure your company is in accordance with these government guidelines. In some instances It may help you receive better ratings on safety inspections; which could reduce insurance premiums.

A forklift operator who has been properly trained will know how to:

  •          Handle asymmetrical loads
  •          Understand the center of gravity
  •          Be able to stay within the stability triangle
  •          Know what traveling speed is safe for his or her task

Train your employees to always be aware of their surroundings, use the horn frequently, especially at intersections, and to ask for a spotter when visibility is limited. Doing these things could prevent damaging products, or colliding with a pedestrian. Tipping the lift truck is one of the most common operator errors. To help avoid this, the load must be within the capacity range of the forklift, and the operator must understand how a change in the center of gravity can affect the forklift’s ability to safely lift. Proper training is the first step in creating a safe and efficient work environment.

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Investing properly in employee training has a huge long term return. You will see an increase in productivity and the life of your lift truck, it will lower operating costs, and most importantly the risk of accidents or injury is greatly reduced. When maneuvered correctly, the numerous benefits of a forklift definitely outweigh the risks.

If you’re not sure how to begin proper operator training, don’t worry we can help! Call us (866) 696-9125 or go online www.sielift.com to make an appointment. We have training programs to certify your employees, and we can answer any questions you may have regarding safe practices and OSHA guidelines. If your company has a large facility with more than five forklift operators; the train-the-trainer program may be beneficial.  This program is designed to educate one of your operators to be able to instruct others. In doing this, you will always have a certified trainer on site. No matter which training program you choose; we will be there to teach, train, and instruct all of your operators.

“Powered Industrial Trucks.” Occupational Safety & Health Administration. United States Department of Labor. Web. 21 Mar 2014. <https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/poweredindustrialtrucks/index.html>.

Rent or Own We’re Southern Known

Posted on by SIElift

At Southeast Industrial Equipment we offer a variety of lift trucks, construction equipment, and other industrial equipment for your material handling operations. When considering your business needs, there are many choices you will have to make. One of the questions many companies find themselves asking is: should I purchase or rent? There are pros to renting and owning, but it’s important to consider what your application will be and how long your business needs the equipment. Making this decision can be tough, especially when your application may call for everyday or just sporadic use. Also consider how quickly a need can arise for a piece of equipment. For example, generators though rarely used, are needed in the case of an emergency and would be smart to purchase for those occasions when it is needed right away.

If your application requires continual use, or equipment is operated to its maximum ability, it would be more cost effective and convenient to own it. The hour meter reading would not be monitored. When you own the lift truck, it will always be there when you need it. Purchasing is also made easier with the financing options that are available. In addition to financing; purchased equipment is tax deductible for the year it was bought, this helps business owners fiscally.

On the other hand, if a machine is not versatile and is infrequently used; renting is a more cost effective option. For companies without a significant amount of capital or well established credit, renting may be best. If you are renting; the cost for maintenance is generally included and the machine provider will service your lift truck at regular intervals.

Keep in mind the needs of your company, and the amount of upfront costs you can handle. In weighing these options you can make an educated decision on what’s best in your situation.

Here is a chart to better view your options when it comes to renting or purchasing a lift truck.

Purchase Rent
  • Equipment is always available for use
  • No need to depend on a third party
  • Hour meter reading is not monitored
  • Tax deductible
  • Financing options available
  • Lower monthly costs
  • Most dealers will offer a trade-in price for lift trucks when you are ready to purchase a new machine
  •  Lower upfront cost
  • Do not need well established credit
  • Short term or long term rental options
  • Current models always available
  • Do not have to purchase equipment that is used sparingly
  • Rental company provides maintenance
  • No long term commitment
  • Do not have to find storage for equipment after the job is completed

Whether your company decides to own, rent, or a combination of both; Southeast Industrial Equipment has you covered. We have equipment available that will fit your needs. Please call (866) 696-9125 or go online www.sielift.com to make an appointment.

Work Place Safety Net

Posted on by SIElift

saftey net

When trapeze artists perform in a circus they are provided with a safety net. A “just in case” the routine doesn’t go the way it was planned. Banking institutions require a high credit score or collateral prior to lending money. Shareholders like security to reduce the risk of loss when investing their money in stocks.  Vehicles deploy airbags in the event of an accident. These are all safety measures. Being prepared for the worst case scenario is not a new idea; neither is preventing the worst from happening. As the saying goes “better safe than sorry,” when it comes to material handling there are several different factors when creating your safe work space.

Safety goes beyond wearing a hard hat and safety goggles. There are many ways employees can increase safety precautions to reduce the risk of accidents and injury. According to OSHA, lift truck accidents cause about 100 fatalities and 36,340 serious injuries every year in general industry and construction. Of these accidents approximately 20-25% are caused, at least in part, by inadequate training. Training is the most important factor in preventing accidents, and should be enforced from the top down. OSHA’s website provides videos, PowerPoint slides, and numerous resources to aid in preparing your employees for the equipment they will be using. Safety education and equipment certification should be thought of as an additional insurance policy to provide your employees with a safe environment.

Quick Safety Tips:

  • Operators should be trained to handle asymmetrical loads, and should never handle loads heavier than the weight capacity of the lift truck.
  • Designate walkways for pedestrians that are clearly marked and easy to follow. This will prevent forklifts and people traveling the same paths.
  • Narrow spaces make it hard to maneuver a forklift, make sure there is adequate space for your machine to move around.
  • Set speed limits and enforce them. The slower a forklift is traveling the easier it is to stop.

Accidents even with no injury to workers are costly to companies. Repair of facilities and replacing damaged goods is expensive and unproductive. A disabled machine means efficiency will be down and workers could be idle for hours or even days depending on the needed repair. Employees being trained and constantly aware of their surroundings will help minimize risk of accidents and injury. The best practice really is safety first. It saves time, money, and people’s lives. Keep employees safe and keep costs down by creating a safe work environment. If there is a question about a practice being safe, it probably isn’t.

At Southeast Industrial Equipment we provide employee training to assist your company. To request an appointment, please call (866) 696-9125 or visit us online at www.sielift.com.