Key Questions to Ask When Purchasing Material Handling Equipment

Selecting the right forklift or lift truck for your business is a complicated process that requires more than a simple comparison of models, specifications and/or prices.  The appropriate fit depends upon the application and environment in which the lift truck will operate, so it’s important to carefully consider the unique needs of your business, the details of the application and the work environment. When properly selected, a forklift or lift truck is capable of increasing productivity, throughput and storage efficiency, as well as lowering overall operating costs.  So, with that in mind, let’s consider 3 areas of importance for selecting the right forklift or lift truck for your business:

1. Work Environment

The situational conditions of your work environment are key determining factors when it comes to selecting an appropriate lift truck as the surface of your floors, location and layout will all influence model selection, especially in regards to vehicle fuel and tire type.  Is the surface of your floor smooth or rough?  Is it littered with debris?  Will the vehicle operate indoors, outdoors or a combination of the two?  What are the dimensions of your aisles, shelving, entrances and ceilings?  Is your building equipped to filter out additional internal combustion emissions? 

2. Application

Within each category of lift truck, whether its forklifts, reach trucks, order pickers, dock stockers, straddle stackers or pallet trucks, there are a variety of configurations and subtypes, each of which are suited to specific tasks and applications.  To determine what model type best suits your business, be sure to consider load composition (solid or liquid), load dimensions (length, width, height, shape and weight), pallet and container types (standard, short or long pallets, bottomless pallets or bins, drums, etc.) and the distance traveled between loads.   

3. Operating Costs

The cost of purchasing a lift truck go well beyond the purchase price, so it’s important to consider the total cost of ownership, which refers to sum of all the expected expenses over the lifetime of the equipment.  A variety of factors influence a given model’s total cost of ownership including the purchase price, financing fees, fuel costs, overall productivity, the frequency and cost of regular service and maintenance, and the possibility for unexpected repairs and downtime.  

One way of determining a model’s total cost of ownership is to calculate its CPM or its cost per pallet moved, which offers insight into the relative value of each model while controlling for differences between facilities.  To calculate the CPM, divide the daily operating costs by the number of pallets an operator is capable of transporting per shift with a given piece of equipment.  An alternate method of cost calculation involves calculating adding up the total cost of operating the equipment and dividing it by the total hours used to determine the cost per hour.  

As you can see, it's extremely important to find a competent dealer with the knowledge and experience needed to appropriately answer all of these questions.  For help finding a Stärke dealership near you, please visit Stärke's find a dealer page today!

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Local: (905)-227-7554  |  Toll free: 1-877-435-4352

How to Get the Most Out of Your Equipment

At this time of year, everyone's bank accounts are starting to feel a little tight as the holiday season fast approaches.  With that mind, let's look at a few ways you can save your business some money and make your account happy by getting the most out of your forklift heading into 2017:

Improve your fuel efficiency 

Checking Tire Pressure 

One of the simplest ways of boosting your fuel efficiency and improving safety is to ensure your forklift’s tires are properly inflated.  With under-inflated tires, a forklift can suffer from poor traction, a hazard which increases the chances of workplace accidents and reduces productivity.  On the other hand, over-inflated tires may result in blow outs that cause injury and product/property damage, and increase downtime.

Reduce Fuel Waste 

For many businesses, a lack of standardization and an inefficient floor layout are the primary causes of wasted fuel.   Here, lack of standardization causes additional idle time while waiting for loads while an inefficient layout causes operators to drive further between loads than necessary.  To address these issues, examine day-to-day work processes and consult with your employees to determine an effective means of standardizing work flows and optimizing your layout to minimize unproductive actions and wasted fuel.

Improve Productivity 

Software Options 

Through fleet management software, employers now have access to detailed information on equipment usage and productivity.  This information allows employers to identify process inefficiencies, eliminate idle time, and make more accurate labor and inventory projections.

Regular Maintenance Schedules 

By following a regular maintenance schedule, managers can schedule work to accommodate for unavailable equipment and minimize disruptions.  Additionally, regular maintenance protects against unexpected downtime due to equipment breakdowns and extends the service life of the equipment.

Equipment Options

For some equipment owners, there’s a great deal of confusion about the difference between a forklift’s functional life and its reasonable economic life.  Even though a well-maintained forklift can remain in operation for over 20 years, its economic life is far shorter as it becomes harder to justify the expenses required to maintain the unit or the opportunity costs associated with lower levels of productivity.

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Local: (905)-227-7554  |  Toll free: 1-877-435-4352

7 Years of Change - One Warranty: Stärke Manual Pallet Jack

What does a warranty say about a manufacturer’s faith in its products?  At Stärke, we believe a well-backed warranty provides a strong indication about the quality of our equipment and the strength of our commitment to customers and dealers alike.  Without this commitment, we wouldn’t offer an industry-leading, 7 year warranty on our manual pallet jacks.  This is something we do without concern for lost revenues or profits. 

Just to illustrate this point, I would like you to think back and consider all that’s occurred over the past 7 years, beginning with the year 2009.  What was going on in the world?  What were we watching in movie theaters?  What was happening on television?  What music were we listening to?

If you’re having difficulty remembering, let’s consider a few points:

• With the 2016 election cycle in full swing, it’s worth noting that it wasn’t until February of 2009 that Barrack Obama finished his first 100 days in the White House after taking office in November of the previous year as the U.S. made history by electing the first African-American president in U.S. history.
•  In 2009, a housing crisis in the U.S. combined with financial instability brought about the greatest economic recession since the Great Depression.
• H1N1 or the “swine flu” was seen as the next great pandemic causing a panic and fear across North America.
• Theatre audiences flocked to see the latest film in the Harry Potter series with Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince while the adults watched a worthy Best Film of the Year winner in The Hurt Locker.
• In living across the North America, captive television audiences watched the first full season of Breaking Bad and the beginning of the end for Walter White, looked on as the Draper family began to disintegrate on Mad Men, and scratched their heads in confusion as the mysteries of Lost were finally revealed.
• In the world of sports, two of the most iconic franchises in North American sports – the New York Yankees and the Los Angeles Lakers – won yet another championship to the delight and dismay of many. In the NHL, Sydney Crosby finally fulfilled his potential and won his first Stanley Cup with the Pittsburgh Penguins while boxing fans saw Floyd Mayweather, Jr. return from retirement for a second time to face Juan Manuel Marquez.
• Both Miley Cyrus and Justin Bieber were beloved symbols of youthful innocence.
• Teenagers and celebrities had yet to become hooked on the social media phenomenon that has become Snap Chat.  

As you can see, a lot can happen and change over a 7 year period.  So, if you're in need of a manual pallet jack, choose a Stärke, where you'll find that some things never change.  The holds true for all of our equipment, where our warranties stand above the competition.  

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Local: (905)-227-7554  |  Toll free: 1-877-435-4352

Does Manual Lift Equipment Still Fit in the Modern Workplace?

With the leaves beginning to turn and the start of the school year long since past, we’ve decided to go back to the basics with an article on the most basic forms of material handling equipment: manual or hand-powered lifts and equipment.  At this point, you may ask yourself: why devote an entire article to such a topic?  After all, few fundamental changes have occurred to the basic designs or operation of these units for over 50 years. 

It's true that despite a long history with roots dating back to the industrial revolution – or, maybe, because of it – manual material handling equipment is often glossed over in favor of more advanced, powered units.  But this lack of attention belies the importance of manual lift equipment in many industrial and retail work environments.  Should you have an occasion to visit a nearby warehouse, manufacturing facility or retail operation, I challenge you to find one without a manual lift in some form or another, whether it is a manual pallet jack, manual straddle stacker or otherwise.

This is because manual lifts are, and will continue to be, an essential part of warehousing and logistics for any number of reasons.  The first, and perhaps most important, is the simplistic yet effective manner in which they were designed to function.  Due, in large part, to the absence of complicated moving parts – such as those found in an electric motor – manual lifts do not require extensive training or maintenance to operate on a regular basis, which make them ideal introductory units for low volume applications and/or inexperienced operators.  Rather than manually move boxes, loads or equipment to avoid the additional costs associated with powered units, manual lift equipment provides a simple and effective material handling solution.

This brings us to the second reason that manual lift equipment refuses to gently fade into the background: the cost.  For operations or businesses early in their development, or for those with low volume needs, it makes little sense to make an investment in a powered lift that isn’t completely necessary.  Without sacrificing functionality or quality, manual equipment options provide a solution with low acquisition and operational costs for the lifetime of the equipment.  Beyond regular lubrication and inspections, these units require little attention in most applications and may last decades longer than their powered counterparts.  

As you can see, there are many reasons to consider using manual lift equipment but, it should be noted, a major caveat applies to any point made regarding the cost of this equipment.  Despite the lower cost of ownership, there is an opportunity cost to be considered with these units, especially for higher volume operations, where faster and more efficient electric models offer greater throughput, productivity and efficiency, all of which are directly correlated with overall profitability.  In such instances, the added productivity of an electric unit more than justify the greater costs associated with their acquisition, operation and maintenance.

If many of these points remind you of your business or operation, consider Stärke Material Handling Group for your next equipment purchase. Our offering of manual material handling equipment includes a range of manual pallet jacks, as well as a manual and semi electric straddle stackers.  We would also like to know how you view manual lift equipment?  Will it continue to have a prominent place in the workplace as we continue the process of industrial automation?  Leave a comment below and join the conversation! 

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Accident Report: Electric Pallet Jack Vs. Transport Truck Near Atlanta, GA

The incident occurred when an electric pallet jack was being relocated in a 52’ transport truck trailer by a local beer distributor near Atlanta, Georgia in September of 2016.  At one point during the trip, the truck’s driver was forced to come to complete stop to avoid an accident with another vehicle. 

As the transport truck came to a sudden stop, the Stärke LiftMaxx PT45WAX electric pallet truck maintained its velocity and flew towards the front of the transport truck at 65mph.  The PT45 generated enough force it completely removed the nose of the trailer from both the floor and roof.  The damage to the trailer was severe and would likely be written off.

Uncertain about the condition of the PT45, the customer called their local Stärke Material Handling authorized dealer, Lanier Lift, a local Stärke dealership based out of Buford, GA to service the unit and conduct a post-accident inspection.  According to Brian Harmon, customer service representative at Lanier Lift, and a former lift mechanic with decades of experience, the Stärke LiftMaxx PT45WAX was able to go back to the distributor the same day despite experiencing what amounted to a fall from a four story building.  In fact, the damage to the PT45WAX was entirely cosmetic, amounting to a small crack in the rear cover and some minor scratches to the paint.

“Try that with any other pallet jack… ANY other pallet jack and it would be completely destroyed!  All this unit required was a new cover and some paint – nothing to it.  Now that is true quality!” explained Brian Harmon.

This incident demonstrates that Stärke equipment is designed and manufactured to provide high quality and durable equipment for even the toughest applications.  This is particularly the case with the PT45WAX, which utilizes durable metal parts for the essential components (unlike the lower quality plastic parts used by many competitors), a rugged steel frame, corrosion-resistant Zinc Dichromate fittings, and Stärke system of “constant stability”.  For more information or to demo a unit for yourself, please visit Stärke online or find a local dealer near you!

For more information or to demo a unit for yourself, please visit us online or find a local dealer near you!

www.starkeforklift.com

Local: (905)-227-7554  |  Toll free: 1-877-435-4352

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Narrow Aisle Operations

Selecting a lift truck is a complicated and intensive process. With an overwhelming number of models and optional features, it is important to carefully consider what unit is best suited to your needs and material handling application. This process can be particularly difficult in warehousing and logistics, where lift trucks must not only perform all the necessary tasks, but also conform to the aisle widths and racking configuration as well. 

While standard warehouse operations generally accommodate most 3,000 – 5,000 lb. counterbalance forklifts, it is a mistake to assume that these models are suited for all warehousing applications. One of the primary concerns here is the turning radius of the forklift in relation to the width of the facilities aisles.  The minimum width required for most sit down counterbalanced forklift models, for example, is eleven (11) feet (although the exact width required for each model depend on its overall dimensions, turning radius and load sizes). 

In narrow aisle operations, where aisles typically range from six (6) to ten (10) feet in width, counterbalanced forklifts are often replaced with specialized vehicles like walkie and rider reach trucks. By replacing the large counterbalance weight found in standard forklifts with compact outriggers, which reduces the size of the unit and increases its maneuverability, reach trucks are uniquely suited to narrow aisle operations.

Since reach trucks must compensate for the added distance between the racking system and the truck caused by the stabilizing outriggers, reach trucks utilize a telescoping arm that extends to reach the storage racking. Depending on the depth of the storage system, reach trucks are available in either a standard single reach model, or as a double reach model to accommodate two pallet deep storage options.

At Stärke, our LiftMaxx line of reach trucks is available with a wide variety of options and features designed to meet a range of applications. For low volume applications, Stärke offers a line of 3,000 lb. walkie reach trucks in single or double reach model with maximum lift heights of up to 217”. For high volume operations, Stärke also offers a rider reach truck from 3,000 to 4,000 lbs. in capacity. Available with either a 2-stage or a 3-stage mast, Stärke’s rider reach truck is capable of lift heights from 118” to 255”.

For more information on narrow aisle operations or our series of reach trucks, please check out our product video on YouTube or visit us online at www.starkecanada.com or www.starkeusa.com. Alternatively, you may contact us via email at info@starkeforklift.com or on our toll free line at 1-877-435-4352. Stärke Material Handling Group... Stärke is Strength.

www.starkecanada.com | www.starkeusa.com   

Local: (905)-227-7554  |  Toll free: 1-877-435-4352

Stärke Material Handling Group Ranks No. 452 on the 2016 PROFIT 500

Thorold, Ontario (September 15, 2016) Canadian Business and PROFIT today ranked Stärke Material Handling Group no. 452 on the 28^th annual PROFIT 500, the definitive ranking of Canada’s Fastest-Growing Companies. Published in the October issue of Canadian Business and at PROFITguide.com, the PROFIT 500 ranks Canadian businesses by their five-year revenue growth.

For the 2^nd straight year, Stärke Material Handling Group made the 2016 PROFIT 500 list by recording a substantial five-year growth rate. Over the last 5 years, Stärke established a large network of independent dealerships throughout the U.S. and Canada and introduced one of the most comprehensive lineups of material handling equipment in the industry.

“Companies become a part of the PROFIT 500 through innovative thinking, smart strategy and sheer grit,” says James Cowan, Editor-in-chief of PROFIT and Canadian Business. “These firms demonstrate what Canadian entrepreneurs can achieve, both at home and across the globe.”

“Stärke Material Handling Group is honored to be on the PROFIT 500 ranking,” says Jim Chesla, VP of Stärke Material Handling Group. “This achievement demonstrates the hard work and dedication of organization, as well as the strength of our product line in markets that truly appreciate the value of peace of mind at a fair price.”

Stärke Material Handling Group is a Canadian owned and operated company manufacturing forklifts, lift trucks, electric utility vehicles and material handling equipment. Stärke’s moto says a lot about who they are - and what they represent: Because it makes sense to expect peace of mind at a fair price. Stärke Material Handling Group also earned recognition in 2016 as one of the top green material handling service providers as part of Food Logistics 2016 Top Green Providers List.

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About PROFIT and PROFITguide.com
PROFIT: Your Guide to Business Success is Canada’s preeminent media brand dedicated to the management issues and opportunities facing small and mid-sized businesses. For 34 years, Canadian entrepreneurs across a vast array of economic sectors have remained loyal to PROFIT because it’s a timely and reliable source of actionable information that helps them achieve business success and get the recognition they deserve for generating positive economic and social change. Visit PROFIT online at PROFITguide.com.

About Canadian Business

Founded in 1928, Canadian Business is the longest-serving, best-selling and most-trusted business publication in the country. With a total brand readership of more than 1.1 million, it is the country's premier media brand for executives and senior business leaders. It fuels the success of Canada's business elite with a focus on the things that matter most: leadership, innovation, business strategy and management tactics. We provide concrete examples of business achievement, thought-provoking analysis and compelling storytelling, all in an elegant package with bold graphics and great photography. Canadian Business—what leadership looks like.

Stärke Material Handling Group - because it makes sense to expect peace of mind at a fair price

Media contact

Justin Engel, Marketing Specialist, Stärke Material Handling Group, justin@starkeforklift.com, 1-877-435-4352, ext 230. 

www.starkeforklift.com

Local: (905)-227-7554  |  Toll free: 1-877-435-4352

The Importance of a Well-Stocked Forklift Parts Inventory

Unnecessary downtime is a annoyance all fleet managers and forklift dealerships struggle with. Since it's a question of when, not if, damage and repairs will happen - whether caused by incidental damage, daily wear, negligence or a random accident - the goal becomes extending periods of productivity and minimizing instances of unnecessary downtime.

To accomplish these goals and keep your clients or business prepared to meet the challenges of your industry, be sure to follow a periodic maintenance schedule and keep a well-stocked parts inventory for all of your equipment.

With a well-stocked parts inventory, you'll be able to dramatically reduce the amount of downtime you experience as a result of repairs and maintenance. Instead of waiting on a third party supplier to find and ship the parts you require, repairs can be made the moment they are diagnosed. If you are uncertain about which parts you should be stocking, contact your equipment manufacturer for advice.

Manufacturers like Stärke will provide you with a comprehensive list of recommendations based on the parts and components that receive the greatest amount of wear, are likely to be damaged or abused by operators, or those that require regular maintenance or replacement. Remember to keep this in mind during the purchase process as many of these parts should be covered by factory warranty programs.

Keep Stärke in mind next time you need replacement parts for your forklift, regardless of the brand, as we stock parts for most makes and models of forklift. For a list of recommended parts for Stärke equipment, please contact us at 1-877-435-4352 or use the contact form on our websites: Canada | USA

www.starkeforklift.com   

Local: (905)-227-7554  |  Toll free: 1-877-435-4352

Avoid Product Damage and Improve the Efficiency of Your Warehouse

The urge to improve productivity and efficiency is an ever-present companion for anyone working in the fields of warehousing and supply chain management. This remains such a constant concern because, by increasing throughput and volume, a company opens up the possibility for increased growth and earning potential. With the direction and value of this concept a forgone conclusion, the issue becomes how to achieve the desired results.

Given the exorbitant capital investments required to increase or modify the available space of a given warehouse, many firms elect to improve productivity through more cost-effective options including the acquisition of new equipment and technologies. By replacing old and antiquated equipment with newer, better-equipped models, managers are able to reduce the time spent on certain tasks (time spent travelling between lifts, for example) while also reducing downtime and maintenance costs. A win-win situation, right?

Well, not so fast. While purchasing new equipment may eliminate certain inefficiencies present within an organization’s workflow, choosing the wrong equipment may also result in increased product damage. Losses due to product damage, in turn, offset the advantages of quicker, higher capacity equipment as large stacks and heavier loads are inherently less stable. To address this issue, many manufacturers utilize fixed stop supports on either side of pallet trucks and straddle stackers. Here, the fixed stops are supposed to prevent a significant deviation to either side in an attempt to stop loads from tipping as the vehicle turns. The problem with fixed stop supports, however, is their tendency to catch on uneven surfaces (older floors, dock plates, etc.) and bring the equipment to a sudden stop while the momentum of the load carries it forward onto the floor.

So, where does that leave our warehouse and supply chain managers? Or anyone else with material handling needs? Enter Stärke's LiftMaxx line of electric pallet trucks / jacks and straddle stackers and Stärke’s Continuous Stability System.

To avoid incidences of tipping and product damage, Stärke LiftMaxx equipment is equipped with a fixed drive wheel supported by two cantilevered, spring-loaded casters in constant contact with the ground, thereby supporting the stability of the lift truck and its load. With spring-loaded casters, the Continuous Stability System smoothly rolls over uneven surfaces without compromising the stability of the truck or its load. This system offers improved control over competitor fixed stop supports, which are positioned up off the ground and are susceptible to friction wear. 

Stärke has created the most stable electric pallet truck on the market, offering added protection against product damage while in transit. With less than half the wearable parts of the competition, a Stärke electric pallet truck also offers fewer maintenance calls. An adjustable riser rod alters the height of your wheels with a simple nut adjustment, while offering ease of maintenance because of its simple, yet sturdy design. Stärke also uses metal components, rather than plastic, in many instances where our competitors do not; allowing for less wearable parts, and less down-time.

To illustrate the benefits of Stärke's Continuous Stability System, consider the case of a bottling plant. In a high volume operation with hundreds of employees and a fragile product, the chances of product damage are high. One of our dealer sales representatives, Brian Harmon out of Lift Inc. in Buford, GA, found out exactly what this means while presenting a demonstration of the Stärke PT45WAX AC electric walkie pallet truck.

The scene was one of hurried operators in a fast-paced distribution facility. Brian was speaking with the warehouse manager about the new Stärke PT45WAX. He had - seconds ago - finished explaining the Stärke Continuous Stability System (which comes standard on all electric pallet trucks) when an operator rounded a corner in front of them a little too sharply, and the competitor unit, fully stocked with several cases of beer, lost a few cases from the top layer, which fell from the load. The outcome was a loud crash on the concrete floor, and a resulting pool of beer.

“That wouldn’t happen with a Stärke, would it?” The manager stated sincerely, pointing at the mess, frowning over the loss.

Brian just shook his head. “No, sir.” He said, looking down in a moment of silence for the lost beer.

This story could have saved the company money rather than lost money with a Stärke AC pallet truck which does not depend on raised fixed stop supports to keep the truck from tipping, but rather cantilevered spring loaded casters, which have constant contact with the floor.

www.starkeforklift.com

Local: (905)-227-7554  |  Toll free: 1-877-435-4352

Essential Tips for Material Handling Equipment Purchases

Think about the last time you experienced buyer’s remorse following a large purchase or investment. Is there anything you could have done differently? What if you made a different selection or used another vendor? More likely than not, this situation could have been avoided, as in most cases, the difference between self-pity and admiration is a matter of knowledge, research and experience. With that in mind, let’s review some of the key factors businesses must consider before purchasing a new piece of material handling equipment.

Equipment Selection and Fit 

When it comes to equipment selection, begin the process with a careful consideration of your needs, application, and work environment. Here, it's important to be as specific and details as possible given the variety of lift types and the potential variations between models. Among the factors to consider when deciding between models and types are potential height and width restrictions, whether it is an indoor, outdoor, or mixed application, the frequency of lifts and required capacity.

Overall Cost of Ownership 

With prices ranging from several thousands to tens of thousands of dollars, purchasing a new piece of equipment is a serious investment. Beyond the retail price of the equipment, owners must also consider the overall cost of ownership over the lifetime of the equipment. Fortunately, most dealers will be able to provide you with an accurate estimate of your expected costs down the road.

To make sure you have all the financial information you`ll need to make your decision, ask your dealer for information on the following questions: How much will it cost to maintain and operate the desired model per year? Here, factors such as wearable parts, durability and fuel costs are important to consider and vary widely from model to model and brand to brand. Are parts widely available and reasonably priced? Special order parts or delays in shipping may prove prohibitive to your business leading to expense overtures and unnecessary downtime. Will you be able to service the unit on-site? How extensive is the warranty? What kind of financing or lease options are available?

After Sale Support and Technical Assistance 

If properly maintained, an individual forklift may remain operational for up to 20 years after its original purchase, it is essential to consider the after sale support network for a given brand and dealership. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the warranty and service agreement from the manufacturer and ask if additional training is necessary to operate the equipment (and if the dealership will provide it for you). It is also a good idea to find a local dealership that offers a wide selection of accessories, parts, and maintenance in case you should need to make any additional repairs or modifications in the future the future.

www.starkeforklift.com   

Local: (905)-227-7554  |  Toll free: 1-877-435-4352

Stärke Material Handling Group Expands Dealer Network in Western Canada

Stärke MaterialHandling Group has officially added LTR Mechanical to its network of independent dealerships in Western Canada. Located in Calgary, Alberta, LTR Mechanical provides excellent sales, service and parts support to Calgary and the surrounding areas and specializes in new and used equipment sales.

“LTR Mechanical is proud to become the only authorized Stärke dealership in the Calgary area and are eager to develop a long and successful relationship with Stärke moving forward. At LTR Mechanical, we strive to provide the best equipment available to our customers, which is why we are we are excited to introduce our customers to Stärke’s quality line of equipment.”

The addition of LTR Mechanical furthers Stärke’s expansion into Alberta and Western Canada, becoming the second dealership added in Alberta since the start of 2016. “We are proud to announce the addition of LTR Mechanical to our dealership network in Alberta,” comments Jim Chesla, VP at Stärke Material Handling Group. “Alberta is an area of priority for our brand moving forward, as is the rest of Western Canada.”

For more information about Stärke, their products and services visit us online at www.starkeforklift.com. Those interested in becoming a Stärke dealer contact Rod Barron, Dealer Development Specialist at 1-877-435-4352 ex. 236 or via email at rbarron@starkeforklift.com.

About Stärke Material Handling Group

Beyond expanding its dealership and support networks, Stärke Material Handling Group has also expanded on its range of Class II and Class III industrial lift equipment with the release of its new XVI line of electric and internalcombustion counterbalanced forklifts, areach rider truck and order picker. With these additions to its product portfolio, Stärke continues to establish itself as one of the most comprehensive material handling equipment manufacturers in the industry.

www.starkeforklift.com   

Local: (905)-227-7554  |  Toll free: 1-877-435-4352

Environmentally Friendly Material Handling Solutions – The Electric Forklift

As manufacturers and end-users alike increasingly look to implement sustainability initiatives, the electric forklift has emerged as an effective yet environmentally friendly material handling equipment solution. In recognition of this trend towards sustainability, we’ve listed the top reasons behind the emergence of the electric forklift as the preferred alternative to traditional internal combustion options.

Efficient AC Power 
Unlike previous DC models, modern electric forklifts utilize highly efficient AC motors that require less power on start-up and during acceleration. The reduced power demands of electric forklifts improve energy efficiency and extend runtimes between charges. As a result, the total cost of ownership for an average electric forklift is $0.80-3.00 per hour of operation. The variable speed and torque of AC motors also enables users to adjust the operation of the forklift to their unique needs and environment, which helps to prevent excessive speeds and/or aggressive driving. 

Environmentally Friendly 
By replacing the internal combustion engine with an efficient AC electric motor, electric forklifts produce no direct emissions or exhaust fume, removing up to 20,000 lbs. of carbon from the environment for every 2,000 hours of operation. The net effect can dramatically improve the overall air quality of a facility, reduce ambient noise and vibration, and limit product damage (especially to sensitive consumer electronics). Beyond emissions, electric forklifts also eliminate many other waste products found in internal combustion forklifts including countless fluids, oils and lubricants.  

Rechargeable Batteries
With a rechargeable power source, electric forklifts consume less energy per shift than their internal combustion counterparts as the advances in battery design and technology provide longer periods between charges and require less space for storage and charging. 

Regenerative Braking Systems
Rather than waste the kinetic energy produced during deceleration, some electric forklift models recover this energy through regenerative braking technology to further reduce energy consumption and extend run-time between charges. As an operator backs off the accelerator to slow down or change directions, the electric motor acts as a generator by reversing direction to recapture the kinetic energy of the vehicle. Since this process reduces the friction and heat produced by the braking system, regenerative braking systems also reduce the wear and tear on the braking system as well.

Energy Demand Management 
Utilizing a power management plan built around an ideal usage distribution, operating hours, peak electricity rates and workloads further reduces the overall energy costs associated with electric forklifts. Here, usage distribution and charging hours are coordinated to take advantage of the lowest possible energy prices (usually lowest in the middle of the night) and maximize the savings provided by an electric forklift. 

The Stärke Energy Series features innovative and environmentally friendly forklifts including our 3 and 4-wheel models and our revolutionary mini electric forklift. For more information on our electric forklift models, visit us online at www.starkeforklift.com, email us at info@starkeforklift.com, or call us toll-free at 1-877-435-4352. Because, it makes sense to expect peace of mind at a fair price.

www.starkeforklift.com

Local: (905)-227-7554  |  Toll free: 1-877-435-4352

Stärke Recognized as a Top Green Provider by Food Logistics

Thorold, Ontario – June 27^th, 2016 •  Stärke Material Handling Group has been recognized for its efforts in sustainability as a Top Green Provider for 2016. Food Logistics’  Top Green Providers List recognizes companies whose products, services, or exemplary leadership is enhancing sustainability within the food and beverage industry. The list offers logistics professionals a guide to the providers, manufacturers, and software and technology companies that have found new ways to promote sustainability throughout their operations and those of their customers.

“Stärke is honoured to be included on Food Logistics’ Top Green Providers list for 2016,” says Jim Chesla, VP of Sales and Business Development. “This achievement reflects the hard work and dedication of our team and dealer networks. It also shows the strength of our products in markets that value sustainability and efficiency.” Stärke earned recognition this year for its use of highly efficient AC electric motors throughout its offering of forklifts and material handling equipment.

“The 2016 Top Green Providers reached a new record high for applicants and recipients, confirming the importance of sustainability in the global food and beverage supply chain,” says Lara L. Sowinski, editorial director, supply chain network, at AC Business Media. “Our industry’s continued focus on environmental stewardship and the role that growers, manufacturers, logistics companies, retailers and others play is driving heightened awareness and actions aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions while simultaneously boosting cost and energy efficiencies.”

About Food Logistics

Food Logistics is published by AC Business Media, a business-to-business media company that provides targeted content and comprehensive, integrated advertising and promotion opportunities for some of the world’s most recognized B2B brands. Its diverse portfolio serves the construction, logistics, supply chain and other industries with print, digital and custom products, events and social media.

For more information about Stärke, and their products and services visit us online at www.starkeforklift.com. Those interested in becoming a Stärke dealer contact Rod Barron, Dealer Development Specialist at 1-877-435-4352 ex. 236 or via email at rbarron@starkeforklift.com. 

www.starkeforklift.com

Local: (905)-227-7554  |  Toll free: 1-877-435-4352

Unloading and Loading - Forklift Safety Tips

Forklifts have become an indispensable component within supply chain management and logistics. Whether it is within a retail, manufacturing or warehouse environment, forklifts perform an essential service by lifting and transport loads throughout the worksite. Since these actions are performed dozens of times every day, it is common for workers to grow accustomed to the dangers associated with the operation of a forklift. To ensure the safety of the forklift operator and those around them, try to follow these safety tips for loading and unloading a forklift:

Know Your Equipment

Before you begin operating your forklift, be sure to familiarize yourself with the vehicle. It is important to know the rated capacity of the forklift (found on the data plate), the capacity of the forks, and the recommended load center. Operating a forklift outside of these recommended restrictions seriously compromises the stability and safety of the equipment and is not advisable.

Positioning the Load

Using the information on the forklift’s data or spec plate, position the load according to the forklift’s recommended load center. Before inserting the forks, level and adjust the height of the forks relative to the pallet or load and move the mast into an upright position. If loading from a trailer or railway car, ensure that the proper supports (wheel chocks, fixed jacks, etc.) are in position to prevent the any additional movement and make sure the floors will be able to support the combined weight of the forklift and load.

Raising and Transporting the Load

Before raising the load, check your surroundings for overhead obstructions or power lines. With the brake applied, lift the load directly upwards to the required height for transport before tilting the mast. Once raised, constantly scan your surroundings for potential hazards or obstructions (keeping the blind spots in mind) as a raised load compromises the stability of a forklift. As you reach your eventual destination, come to a controlled and complete stop before returning the mast to an upright position and lowering the forks.

When working on or near a forklift, stay alert and prepare for the unexpected. For additional help, tips, advice or training, contact your local Stärke dealer today! For Canadian residents, please visit the Stärke Canada dealer page. For U.S. residents, please visit the Stärke USA dealer page.

www.starkeforklift.com   

Local: (905)-227-7554  |  Toll free: 1-877-435-4352

A Different Breed of Forklift Manufacturer

For small to medium-sized dealerships, the prevailing market conditions in the material handling industry threaten to fundamentally change their day-to-day operations. The prospect of territorial restructuring looms as corporate mergers redefine the industry and areas of prime responsibility. Coupled with this uncertainty are inflexible dealership contracts, which provide little relief against economic instability or declining demand. For forklift dealerships caught up in the margins of such changes, it’s becoming clear that they will no longer receive the support they need to thrive moving forward.

At this point, some readers may think the circumstances described above are far closer to dystopian fiction than they are to day-to-day reality. But, the unfortunate fact of the matter is, such circumstances are far too familiar for many dealerships. For those who have grown tired of the status quo and agree “that it makes sense to expect peace of mind at a fair price,” perhaps it’s time to consider a different breed of manufacturer – Stärke Material Handling Group. Our pitch to dealers begins with our full line of forklifts and material handling equipment including ICE and electric forklifts, pallet trucks, straddle stackers, reach trucks, order pickers and electric utility vehicles but we offer much more to our dealers than quality equipment. 

At Stärke, our entire business model is built upon the quality of our equipment and the support we provide to our integrated network of small to medium-sized dealerships. We prefer a cooperative approach to dealership development and recognize that our success is predicated upon the success of our dealers. Rather than a legally binding contract filled with unrealistic quotas or stock commitments, Stärke dealers enter an agreement, where we acknowledge the importance of our commitments and how those commitments should shape our goals moving forward.

To further our shared objectives, Stärke is committed to providing fast and responsive support for all of our dealers, whether it is related technical issues, sales inquiries or marketing. Our streamlined technical support network helps to minimize response times on warranty claims and parts requests, while our dedicated marketing department works directly with our dealers to bolster their local marketing efforts. And, unlike many other off-shore manufacturers, Stärke advertises to both dealers and end-users alike.

Our plan for growth and development continues to impress industry experts as we continue to receive recognition within the industry. Our rapid growth earned us a place on Profit 500's list of the fastest growing companies in Canada in both 2015 and 2016. Meanwhile, our innovative electric equipment earned us a spot on Food Logistics Top Green Providers list in 2016. 

As our motto says: Stärke is Strength. This isn't just a tagline, it perfectly describes how the Stärke brand performs in product design, customer service and value. It demonstrates our commitment to our dealers, customers, and our products. Stärke offers one of the largest selections of material handling equipment in the industry including class I through VI products making our dealers instantly competitive on every deal that they are in. Because, it makes sense to expect peace of mind at a fair price!

For further information about the dealership opportunities in Canada, the U.S., Mexico and the Caribbean, please visit our website or contact Rodney Barron, our dealer development specialist, at 1-877-435-4352, ext. 236.

www.starkeforklift.com

Local: (905)-227-7554  |  Toll free: 1-877-435-4352

Outfit your Forklift with New Attachments and Accessories from Stärke

Want to maximize the versatility of your forklift? Stärke Material Handling Group, a Canadian-owned and operated manufacturer, introduced a new line of branded forklift attachments and accessories to compliment one of the most comprehensive material handling equipment lineups in the industry. 

Hoppers

Stärke’s self-dumping hoppers are constructed of 7 or 10 gauge welded steel and are available in a wide range sizes from 1/2 to 6 cubic yards in capacity. Unloading is made easy with a precisely balanced design, which provides full forward motion and automatically returns the hopper to an upright position after a load is dumped.

Rotators

Stärke's corrosion resistant rotators are built for highly corrosive environments including applications in salt water fisheries and the food and beverage industry. Every component on these rotators are designed to resist and disperse corrosive liquids such as salt water and other acid fluids to improve durability while maintaining functionality. Notably, Stärke’s corrosion resistant rotators include a patented and replaceable nylon ring-gear bearing insert which replaces vulnerable ball or roller bearings and inner seals. 

With these additions to its product portfolio, which already includes a complete range of Class I-VI equipment, Stärke continues to establish itself as one of the most comprehensive material handling equipment manufacturers in the industry. For more information, visit our websites - Canada | USA - contact us toll-free at 1-877-435-4352 or send us an email at info@starkeforklift.com. 

www.starkeforklift.com

Local: (905)-227-7554  |  Toll free: 1-877-435-4352