There have always been benefits to renting forklifts, aerial lifts and other material handling equipment. With the advancements being made regularly, sometimes getting locked into any one type of equipment can present problems.

Over the past few years, we have seen more and more customers turning to rentals as a method to acquire equipment, as the terms can be flexible from one week, to one year, to as many years as needed. There are several primary benefits to renting equipment, and they include:

1. Cost-Effectiveness

• Lower Upfront Costs: Renting eliminates the need for a large capital investment required to purchase forklifts.
• Predictable Expenses: Rental agreements often include maintenance and repair costs, making budgeting simpler.

2. Flexibility

• Short-Term Needs: Ideal for seasonal or temporary projects, such as peak warehouse seasons or one-off tasks.
• Scalability: You can quickly adjust the number or type of forklifts based on changing operational needs.

3. Access to Modern Equipment

• Latest Technology: Rental companies often provide newer models with advanced features, increasing productivity and safety.
• Variety of Options: Access to different types and sizes of forklifts tailored to specific tasks.

4. Maintenance and Support

• Reduced Downtime: Rental agreements typically include maintenance and repair services, minimizing disruptions.
• No Depreciation Worries: Renting removes concerns about equipment value loss over time.

5. Trial Opportunities

• Try Before You Buy: Renting allows businesses to evaluate equipment performance before committing to a purchase.

6. Compliance and Safety

• Well-Maintained Equipment: Rental fleets are often inspected and maintained to comply with safety standards.
• Expert Guidance: Rental providers can advise on the best equipment for specific tasks, ensuring safe and efficient operations.

7. Tax Benefits

• Expense Deduction: Rental costs are often fully deductible as operational expenses, unlike purchased assets that depreciate over time.

8. Storage Savings

• No Long-Term Storage Needed: Once the rental period ends, the equipment is returned, saving space and storage costs.

And just about any of the equipment we have in inventory, new, used or otherwise can be available for rent, including forklifts, aerial lifts, sweepers and scrubbers, commercial vehicles, attachments and more.

For more information on rentals, and a quote, contact us at 804-233-0051.

Learn more about renting from AM Davis

Winter is upon us, and heating a warehouse or manufacturing facility can be costly. To retain heat in your warehouse during the winter and improve energy efficiency, here are several strategies:

1. Insulation

• Roof and walls: Insulate the roof and walls to minimize heat loss. Fiberglass, spray foam, or rigid foam board are good options.
• Doors and windows: Use weatherstripping and caulking around doors and windows to prevent drafts and leaks. Consider installing insulated doors and double-glazed windows.

2. Sealing Gaps

• Inspect the warehouse for any gaps, cracks, or openings in walls, ceilings, or floors where heat could escape, and seal them.

3. Radiant Heaters or Infrared Heating

• Use radiant heaters or infrared heating systems, which are efficient for large spaces and target heating specific areas without warming the air, reducing heat loss.

4. HVAC Optimization

• Upgrade your HVAC system to ensure it's energy-efficient. Programmable thermostats can help regulate heat and avoid energy waste by adjusting temperatures during off-hours.

5. Thermal Curtains or Blinds

• Install thermal curtains or blinds over windows and large openings to reduce heat loss through glass surfaces.

6. Strategic Layout

• Rearrange the layout of the warehouse to direct workstations or high-traffic areas closer to heat sources, minimizing the need for overall heating.

7. Use of Air Curtains

• Install air curtains over frequently used doors or docks. These create a barrier of air that prevents cold air from entering and warm air from escaping when doors are open.

8. Fans for Air Circulation

• Install ceiling fans to push warm air that rises back down to floor level, improving heat distribution. Some industrial fans have a reverse setting for winter use.

9. Reflective Insulation Materials

• Use reflective insulation materials on walls or ceilings to reflect heat back into the warehouse, enhancing the efficiency of your heating system.

10. Use Smart Thermostats

• Implement smart thermostats that can monitor temperature zones and adjust heating as needed, optimizing energy use and maintaining consistent temperatures.

11. Employee Comfort

• Ensure workstations and break areas are well-heated, and provide localized heating, such as space heaters, if needed, to keep workers comfortable.

12. Optimize Heating Systems

• Use energy-efficient heaters (e.g., infrared or radiant heaters) that directly warm objects and people instead of the air, which can escape.
• Zone heating allows you to target only the areas in use, reducing energy waste.

Implementing a combination of these strategies will help you retain heat and create a more energy-efficient environment during the winter. Would you like suggestions specific to the size or layout of your warehouse? Just give us a call at 804-233-0051.

We’ve written about what you can do to avoid overheating of your forklift’s engine. Now let’s discuss the damage that can occur if you allow it to happen.

Heat can significantly affect the performance and longevity of a forklift engine. Here are some potential effects:

1. Overheating: Excessive heat can cause the engine to overheat, leading to a breakdown or even permanent damage. Overheating can cause parts to expand and seize up, resulting in costly repairs.

2. Reduced Efficiency: High temperatures can cause the engine to run less efficiently. This can result in decreased power output and increased fuel consumption.

3. Oil Breakdown: Heat can cause the engine oil to break down more quickly, reducing its ability to lubricate the engine parts effectively. This can lead to increased wear and tear on the engine components.

4. Cooling System Stress: The cooling system has to work harder in hot conditions to maintain the engine at an optimal temperature. This can lead to wear and potential failure of components such as the radiator, water pump, and hoses.

5. Increased Wear and Tear: High temperatures can accelerate the wear and tear on engine components, such as gaskets, seals, and hoses. This can lead to leaks and mechanical failures.

6. Battery Performance: Heat can negatively affect battery performance and lifespan. Overheating can cause the battery to lose charge more quickly and reduce its overall efficiency.

7. Air Intake and Combustion: Hot air is less dense than cool air, which can affect the engine’s air-fuel mixture and combustion efficiency. This can result in reduced engine performance and increased emissions.

To mitigate these effects, it’s important to perform regular maintenance, ensure proper cooling, and monitor the engine’s temperature closely, especially during hot weather conditions. Learn more about Planned Maintenance by AM Davis.