When it comes to plant hire, getting the right machine for the job and for the right amount of time can seem quite a daunting task. Having the ability to lift large and heavy objects around the worksite is something that should be taken seriously, a lot of time can be saved by moving items in bulk as opposed to by hand.

In order to complete a job to the best of your ability as well as efficiently as possible, you need to ensure you have hired the correct machinery for the task at hand. Hiring the wrong machinery can be a time-consuming and expensive mistake to make, so ensure you’ve taken into consideration everything.

A common question we get is, ‘what is best for my job, a forklift or a telehandler’ and that is a fair question. Both machines offer different potential advantages, so it is important that you weigh up all your options. Join us in this blog as we identify the pros of each machine and decipher which is better for each job.

Advantages of Forklift trucks

While the forklift and telehandler were designed with the same mission in mind, the forklift as a machine offers advantages that the telehandler cannot. At its core, the forklift was designed to move heavy things from one place to another. Since the invention of forklifts, workforces across the nation have been able to move objects around with efficiency and ease. These machines help workers to increase their productivity and eliminate the strain on the body caused by lifting heavy objects.

Forklifts are more compact

Due to their generally smaller size, forklifts are quick and easy to move, making them ideal for use in narrow spaces. They are essential machines for jobs that require stock or objects being moved down aisles or around warehouses. They're also a great choice for loading and unloading equipment from trucks, so if you are likely to have equipment delivered to your site, a forklift is a must consider.

Variety of forklift fuel options

Forklifts have come a long way since their creation. Gone are the days of purely diesel-powered forklift trucks. Now you are able to get gas-powered forklift trucks as well as Electric-powered forklift trucks. The latter of which is a huge leap forward for the world of construction. Designed for the eco-conscious, the electric forklift is perfect for shorter jobs. Fitted with a lithium battery, they have a running life of up to 3 hours. As you are unlikely to be using a machine for 3 hours constantly, they make a great option for smaller jobs and sites.

Ultimately, forklifts are great machines to reduce strain on your workforce, so definitely something to consider for your next job. If you’re looking to hire a forklift, whether it is gas, electric or diesel-powered, get in touch with us here at CA Plant to get yours booked.

Advantages of Telehandlers

Telehandlers are one of the most popular machines to hire. Designed to combine the strengths of both forklifts and cranes, the telehandler is one of the most versatile machines to have at your disposal on site. These machines have been designed to lift not only vertically but also forward and away from the position of the machine. This enables a load to be raised over areas with limited access where a counterbalance truck would be unsuitable. The advantages don’t just stop there.

Telehandlers are incredibly versatile

Thanks to their telescopic boom, telehandlers are able to lift up and over any obstructions that may be in your way. While both telehandlers and forklifts can lift and move objects, telehandlers are considered more versatile because they can do this without having to move anything other than their boom. This makes them a great option for sites that may not have as much room to manoeuvre. Thanks to this extendable boom, telehandlers possess a reach that forklifts simply cannot match.

Telehandlers are designed to work outdoors

While forklifts can be used outdoors if really need be, if the terrain is uneven and becomes rugged, you would be sensible to turn to the telehandler for the task at hand. All of our telehandlers available here at CA Plant come equipped with the appropriate tires, meaning you can take on any terrain.

Thanks to their design, they're better suited to remain stable in rocky terrain. Many of our models come with hydraulic systems for further stability, which can help if you're operating the telehandler on a slope. Large machinery can be dangerous to operate if not done safely.

Discover the Forklift of Telehandler for you at CA Plant

If you’re looking to make your job as efficient as possible, why not consider hiring from our forklift or telehandler collection? Here at CA Plant, we have a wide range of machinery available for hire.

If you have any questions, please consult our FAQ page. Here you will find some of the most frequently asked questions. If you still cannot find the answer you’re after, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us and a member of the team will be happy to help.