Leavitt Machinery Training Centre

A preventive maintenance programs will help identify problems proactively to ensure the least amount of equipment downtime resulting in higher productivity.

Propane forklifts can be used in indoor and outdoor applications. Another option for indoor use is electric.

Choosing the right tires for your forklift is entirely dependent on your specific situation and application. Don’t settle on replacing what you have with the same. If you’re not sure what tires are right for your application, feel free to reach out to our team of experts and we’ll help you find the perfect solution!

Depending on the type of tire, quality, application and operation, forklift tires should last between 2,000 to 2,400 hours.

When you add the acquisition cost and the overall running cost of ICE and electric forklift options and compare them, the numbers speak for themselves. Although a higher initial investment, electric forklifts offer significantly lower maintenance and operating costs.

Operating outdoors for extended periods of time will, in most cases, be more comfortable with an enclosed cabin; whereas an open cab will offer better visibility in an indoor facility with a controlled climate. Even with changing emissions standards, most customers prefer to keep diesel forklifts for outdoor use only. Propane is versatile and can be used both indoor and outdoor, however the fuel tanks are smaller requiring more frequent refueling than diesel. Electric options are most commonly used for indoor only applications; however some models are now able to operate both indoor and outdoor and on multiple surfaces.

Load dimensions come in all shapes and sizes and in the forklift world, the weight of the object doesn’t always determine what capacity you need in a machine. Length, width, and height will determine the load center of the object which will ultimately affect the capacity of your forklift. Take a measurement of the load you plan to lift and figure out a good approximation of the weight of the object. This information will help your forklift sales representative calculate the right lift capacity required for the job at hand.

From polished concrete floors to mud that will overflow into your boots, the ground equipment works on can vary dramatically and will change the type of forklift and chassis you require. The different classes of forklifts are all suited to different operating conditions, with some classes only suitable for smooth concrete and others which would be overkill in the same application. You might also need the forklift to work on multiple surfaces, which again will narrow your options. This question helps refine your search and eliminate a few classes of forklifts from the mix

A yard spotter, also known as a terminal tractor, is a specialized type of vehicle used primarily in industrial and logistical settings, such as shipping terminals, distribution centers, and manufacturing facilities. Its primary purpose is to move and position trailers, containers, and cargo within a confined area like a yard or terminal, where space is limited, and maneuverability is crucial.Key characteristics and functions of a yard spotter (terminal tractor) include:Short Wheelbase: Yard spotters typically have a shorter wheelbase than long-haul trucks, making them highly maneuverable in tight spaces.Single-Operator Vehicle: They are often designed for operation by a single driver, allowing for quick and efficient trailer movement within a yard.Specially Designed for Yard Work: Yard spotters are engineered to handle the demands of constant stopping, starting, and low-speed maneuvering in yard environments.Cargo Positioning: They are used to pick up, drop off, and reposition trailers, containers, or other cargo units, ensuring efficient loading and unloading.Safety Features: Yard spotters are equipped with safety features such as rear-view cameras, audible alarms, and ergonomic driver cabs to enhance safety during operations.Coupling and Uncoupling: They are capable of coupling and uncoupling trailers or containers quickly, making them versatile for various tasks.Time and Labor Efficiency: Yard spotters help optimize yard operations, reduce downtime, and minimize the need for manual labor, leading to increased efficiency.Specialized Tires: Yard spotters often have specialized tires to provide stability and traction on uneven or unpaved surfaces.Maintenance and Inspection: Regular maintenance and inspection are crucial to ensure the proper functioning of yard spotters, especially since they experience frequent use and often operate in challenging conditions.In summary, a yard spotter or terminal tractor is a vital piece of equipment in logistics and industrial operations, playing a key role in the efficient and safe movement of trailers and cargo within yards and terminals. Its compact design and specialized features make it a valuable asset for businesses dealing with cargo management and distribution.

Some alternative terms for terminal tractors include: Yard Spotter, Yard Trucks, Spotting Tractor, Yard Goat, Shunt Truck, Truck Jockey, Container Mover and Hostler!