Forklift vs Telehandler – Which is Right for the Job?

Forklift vs Telehandler – Which is Right for the Job?

Meta Description: Understand the differences between forklifts and telehandlers to select the right equipment for material handling jobs. Which is best – the conventional forklift, the versatile telehandler, or the compact forklift?

This article overviews two commonly used material handling equipment: forklifts and telehandlers. It discusses their typical applications, capabilities, and limitations to help customers understand critical differences and choose the right equipment.

Whether you need to lift items indoors or outdoors, this breakdown covers basic specifications, operation types, and typical terrains where each thrives. The goal is to make an informed selection by highlighting what each does best.

Overview of Forklift

Forklifts are versatile machines commonly used for material handling in various industries such as construction, manufacturing, and warehousing. They help lift heavy loads and transport them efficiently over flat surfaces. Some key types of forklifts are discussed below:

Types of Forklifts

Forklifts are available in different models to suit diverse job conditions. Electric forklifts, such as warehouses, are suitable for indoor usage due to their zero emissions and ability to operate in confined spaces.

Rough terrain forklifts have large pneumatic tires that effectively traverse uneven outdoor surfaces like construction sites. Heavy-duty forklifts can lift hefty loads weighing up to 60,000 pounds for specialized heavy-lifting tasks.

How Forklifts Operate

All forklifts have a mast with solid forks at the front for lifting loads. Batteries power electric forklifts for emission-free operation, while rough terrain models have diesel engines. The operator controls the forklift by manipulating a steering wheel or lever.

The forks raise and lower hydraulically to pick up pallets and other palletized loads. Forklifts can then transport the lifted loads over flat surfaces and lower them accurately at the desired destination. Attachments like rotators and clamps allow forklifts to handle different types of loads. Safety features maintain stability while lifting and moving loads around.

Overview of Telehandlers

Telehandlers, telescopic handlers, are versatile lifting machines commonly used in the construction industry. They come in different types to suit varied jobsite needs and load requirements.

Types of Telehandlers

Three types of telehandlers are mainly based on their lifting capacity – light-medium, heavy-duty, and high-capacity. Light-medium duty telehandlers can lift between 5,000 and 9,000 pounds and are suitable for lifting loads in narrow aisles or confined spaces.

Heavy-duty telehandlers, as the name suggests, have higher lifting capacities ranging from 10,000 to 12,000 pounds, making them ideal for lifting heavy moving loads indoors. High-capacity telehandlers have the highest load capacity of 14,000 to 24,000 pounds, allowing them to handle bulkier loads efficiently.

How Telehandlers Operate

All telehandlers are powered by diesel engines, as there are currently no electric models. They come equipped with large pneumatic tires that offer good traction even on rough terrain like construction sites. One of the defining features of telehandlers is the boom – a telescopic arm attached to the rear of the machine.

The boom can extend to 30 feet on some models and tilt between fully horizontal and 70 degrees vertically. This allows operators to lift loads placed in areas not accessible by other equipment.

Telehandlers are also highly maneuverable thanks to their four-wheel steering and can lift loads forwards, backward, and vertically, providing maximum versatility for material handling in construction.

Comparing Forklifts and Telehandlers

Whether lifting heavy loads on construction sites or transporting pallets in warehouses, forklifts and telehandlers are invaluable equipment for material handling applications. Both machines excel at lifting and moving heavy objects from one location to another. However, their lifting capacities, maneuverability, and suitability for different terrains vary greatly.

1. Lift Capacity and Height

Depending on their intended use, forklifts are available in various lift capacities. Rough terrain forklifts can lift loads weighing up to 60,000 pounds, making them suited for heavy lifting.

Meanwhile, telehandlers and forklifts offer greater versatility in lifting loads vertically and forward. Larger telehandlers have lift capacities exceeding 24,000 pounds. Their booms also allow operators to lift loads to heights surpassing 56 feet.

2. Maneuverability and Stability

Maneuverability is a key factor when operating equipment in tight spaces like warehouses or on construction sites with narrow aisles. Forklifts are highly maneuverable machines thanks to their compact size.

However, telehandlers offer even greater maneuverability through their four-wheel steering and ability to turn within a small radius. Both pieces of equipment maintain stability through hydraulic systems and counterweights, but telehandlers can further stabilize themselves using their outriggers when working at maximum reach.

3. Terrain Suitability

The terrain is an important consideration when choosing between forklifts and telehandlers. While forklifts are suitable for level surfaces like warehouses, rough terrain forklifts can manage dirt and asphalt.

Telehandlers excel when lifting loads in rough terrain due to their four-wheel drive and wide tires. Their suitability for uneven and sloping ground makes telehandlers better equipped for construction sites and outdoor applications involving lifting loads in rough conditions.

What are Material Handling Equipment?

Material or building materials handling equipment refers to machinery and tools used to transport, lift, store, and protect various materials at construction sites, warehouses, distribution centers, and other industrial facilities.

This equipment plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth movement of materials throughout various stages of construction, manufacturing, and distribution.

Types of Material Handling Equipment Commonly Used in Construction

• Forklifts: Forklifts are widely used to lift loads using their fork attachment and transport them to different locations on site. They commonly move materials like bricks, lumber, pipes, and other packaged goods. Forklifts come in electric and diesel variants to suit indoor and outdoor operations.
• Telehandlers: Telehandlers, also known as telescopic handlers, are versatile machines that lift loads from ground level and transport them to higher platforms using their extendable boom. They are suitable for lifting materials forwards and backward. Telehandlers place trusses, set precast concrete elements, and move other heavy loads on construction sites.
• Articulated Boom Lifts: Articulated boom lifts have a jointed or articulated boom and outriggers for stability. They help access elevated working platforms and lift loads to perform tasks like installing trusses or working on building facades and roofs. Boom lifts come in both electric and fuel variants.
• Scissor Lifts: Scissor lifts have a scissor-like mechanism for their elevating platform instead of a boom. They provide accessible working heights and help install ceilings, lay cables, and perform maintenance work. Scissor lifts are usually electric-powered and suitable for indoor applications.
• Cranes: Tower and mobile cranes are useful for lifting heavy loads and components with the help of their hoists, slings, and rigging accessories. They can lift loads over obstacles and access hard-to-reach areas on construction sites. Cranes require experienced operators for safe operation.