Top Mistakes to Avoid While Operating a Forklift

Each and every year, forklift-related accidents result in hundreds of workplace injuries throughout Canada and the U.S. With international forklift safety day coming up next month, we've compiled a list of common mistakes to watch for while operating a forklift:

Insufficient or Improper Training
Every company is responsible for ensuring that only competent and properly trained individuals operate a forklift. While a wide array of 3^rd party training programs currently offer forklift safety and awareness certification, these courses do not include the practical training necessary to operate a forklift. Once an employee receives their safety and awareness certificate, it is the responsibility of the employer to provide supervised training on the equipment in question and in the specific environment where it is being used. 

Failure to Pay Attention to Surroundings
Some of the most common workplace accidents involving forklifts occur when a hapless operator makes incidental contact with racks, shelves, guardrails and other obstructions (YouTube's Forklift Fails). For this reason, it is essential that you pay close attention to your surrounding and note any potential obstructions or hazards. Using a forklift with an open view mast helps to reduce potential blind spots while increasing visibility. 

Operating Defective Equipment
Safety awareness and accident prevention needs to begin before an operator starts, or even enters, a forklift. Perform a pre-operation inspection on your machinery to spot loose hoses/fittings and other safety hazards before they become an issue or result in equipment failure. 

Reckless Driving 
Whether it is driving too fast, being aggressive with an elevated load or coming too close to platform and ramp edges, reckless driving greatly increases the likelihood of accident. Always be aware of your surroundings, the dangers associated with operating industrial machinery, and never engage in risky behaviours for the sake of effort or expediency. 

Visit Stärke online for more information and safety tips. 

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

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 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

Stärke Material Handling Group Expands Dealership Network in Quebec, Canada

Stärke Material Handling Group officially added J-Spec Atelier Mécanique to its network of independent dealerships in Quebec, Canada. Servicing Saint Amable, Quebec, and the surrounding areas, J-Spec Atelier Mécanique serves as a fitting addition to a brand known for providing quality equipment, customer service and technical support.

Owned and operated by Jean-Philip Coulombe and located 30 minutes outside of Montreal, J-Spec Atelier Mécanique offers a wide range of services throughout the Saint Amable area, including new and used equipment sales, rentals, and lift truck repair services featuring a unique electronic service history tracking system that helps with diagnostics and future repairs.

“We are very excited to be adding J-Spec to our dealership network in Quebec,” comments Raymond Tremblay, Quebec and Eastern Canada Sales Manager at Stärke Material Handling Group. “This addition extends our coverage of Quebec, which is a very important market for us. After landing on the Profit 500 list of the fastest growing companies in Canada last year, we want to continue building momentum in 2016.”

For more information about J-Spec Atelier Mécanique, visit them online at www.jspec-am.com or contact via phone at 514.586.9986 or email at mail@jspec-am.com.

For more information about Stärke, their products and services, please visit us online at www.starkeforklift.com. Those interested in becoming a Stärke dealer in Quebec or Eastern Canada, please contact Raymond Tremblay via phone at 1-877-435-4352 ext. 7 or by email at cfdl@hotmail.com. 

www.starkeforklift.com

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

Selecting the Right Type of Forklift Tire - Cushions vs. Pneumatics

Overall, there are three basic types of forklift tires: cushion, pneumatic air and solid pneumatic. Since each type of forklift tire is designed for specific usages and applications, there is a direct correlation between tire type and the overall design and dimensions of a forklift. The by-product of this relationship is a categorization system that identifies forklifts by tire type above other – seemingly more important – considerations. In accordance with this correlation, it is essential that potential buyers consider both their operating conditions and work environment during the purchasing process.

Designed for indoor applications, cushion tires are constructed of solid rubber attached to a round metal rim and have the smallest diameter of the three options. This corresponds to a smaller forklift chassis, lower ground clearance and a superior turning radius when compared to other models. In turn, this results in a more maneuverable forklift capable of operating in the narrow aisles and restrictive spacing typically found in indoor applications including manufacturing and distribution facilities, receiving docks and/or greenhouses.

Pneumatic forklift tires are larger and wider than solid cushion tires and are constructed of a treaded rubber exterior with an internal cavity filled with air or polyurethane foam. When combined with the added durability and ground clearance that result from these components, pneumatic forklift tires are the preferred option for heavy-duty and/or outdoor applications with rough, uneven terrain. Since forklifts are built without a suspension system, pneumatic tires also provide the operator with superior comfort by suppressing bumps and vibration, thereby decreasing operator fatigue and improving productivity.

Similar to pneumatic air tires, solid pneumatic tires are constructed of aggressively layered rubber with one distinct difference - the absence of a hollow internal cavity. Solid pneumatic tires are best viewed as a mix between the solid construction of a cushion tire and the durability of a pneumatic tire. The net effect of this combination is a forklift tire that is less susceptible to punctures or damage from sharp, irregular objects or debris typically found in storage facilities, lumber mills and scrap metal yards. This dynamic construction also ensures that solid pneumatic tires are more versatile than the other two tire types, enabling owners to utilize them in small to mid-sized operations with both indoor and outdoor applications.

For more information, advice, or a quote, please contact your nearest Stärke Material Handling Dealer with locations throughout Canada or the USA.

www.starkeforklift.com

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

Repetitive Strain Injuries, Forklifts and Ergonomics

Over the past 20 years, businesses throughout North America have begun to recognize the risks associated with lower back pain (LBP), repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) and musculoskeletal injuries (MSIs). As 3 of the most common causes behind injury-related absenteeism and workers’ compensation claims in North America, such injuries have a significant impact on the overall economy as businesses lose billions of dollars in lost productivity, wages, and workplace insurance claims. In response to this development, businesses and forklift manufacturers have begun investing in a long neglected area of occupational health and safety – that of operator ergonomics.

How Inadequate Ergonomics Harm Your Bottom-line:

As an occupation, forklift operators are at a high risk of developing repetitive strain and musculoskeletal injuries since they spend an inordinate amount of time in a stationary or seated position. As with other professions that require employees to spend long, uninterrupted periods of time in a seated position, forklift operators are at risk of developing muscle strains, soreness and cramping in their back, neck, shoulders and arms. However, unlike their desk-bound counterparts, forklift operators are regularly subjected to additional movements and strains that exasperate an already detrimental situation.

Over the course of a regular workday, it is not uncommon for a forklift operator to shift into an awkward position or contort themselves in an effort to maintain visibility while maneuvering their equipment. This is particularly prevalent in confined, indoor workplaces as forklift operators are regularly forced to avoid obstacles, navigate through narrow aisles and around tight corners. And, since forklifts are designed without a suspension system, even the most basic operations tend to subject a forklift operator to incessant vibrations and jolts. Taken together, these two factors alone may prematurely degrade the vulnerable joints and connective tissues of the body, as well as gradually compress the spinal column and cause damage to the delicate discs between the vertebrae. 

Even before taking the physical risks associated with RSIs and MSIs into consideration, poorly designed operator ergonomics can threaten the overall productivity and profitability of any business or operation. In the absence of ergonomically designed supports and equipment, forklift operators are far more likely to experience high levels of fatigue which may lead to decreased alertness, fatigue and physical strain, poor decision-making and confusion. Fatigued operations are not only unable to maintain optimal levels of productivity, they also pose a significantly higher risk to the business’s property, inventory, equipment, and co-workers alike.

How Stärke Equipment Innovations Can Help:

To ensure that the end of an operator’s shift is just as productive as the beginning, Stärke’s new XVI series of counterbalanced forklifts includes a number of ergonomic features and improvements when compared to other, similar models.

On a basic level, designing an ergonomic forklift begins with the design and arrangement of the operator’s seat and the vehicle’s control system. Unlike the equipment they operate, forklift operators rarely come in standard sizes and dimensions. To promote proper posture regardless of the operator`s physical features, the XVI series of forklifts is equipped with an adjustable suspension seat and steering column, an ample foot well to allow the foot pedals operated at a comfortable angle, and a long operator assist grip for easy movement in and out of the forklift. 

As part of this systemic approach to operator comfort and safety, Stärke’s new range of XVI forklifts also includes a number of innovative parts and components which limit the physical strain of operators even further. With a newly designed wide-view mast system, Stärke effectively limits the health and safety risks that result from poor visibility. To reduce the noise and vibration, the XVI was engineered to include dampening devices that insulate the engine and a one-piece floating cabin further reduces the vibration felt within the operator’s compartment. 

Taken as a whole, the innovative engineering and ergonomic features included in Stärke’s new XVI series of counterbalanced forklifts represent a categorical improvement over other models within its class. In this way, Stärke continues to demonstrate its commitment to develop product solutions based upon emerging market forces, customer needs and changes to our environment. There’s strength in numbers, and Stärke is strength. 

For more information on Stärke products, pricing or availability, please contact your nearest Stärke Material Handling Dealer. Locations throughout Canada or the USA.

www.starkeforklift.com

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

Stärke's New XVI Forklift

Here at Stärke Material Handling Group, we’ve built our reputation on our comprehensive product line, continuous innovation, and our dedicated parts and dealer support networks. As part of this commitment, we begun developing a series of informative videos highlighting our new products and design innovations. Among the first videos to be released is an informative video promoting Stärke’s new range of Professional Series forklifts – the XVI 40-50! 

Engineered to lift between 8,800 lbs. and 11,000 lbs., this range of XVI forklifts includes multiple upgrades when compared to similar, competing brand classes. “The XVI series of forklifts was designed to meet a growing need across multiple industries,” explains Jim Chesla, VP of Sales and Business Development at Stärke Material Handling Group. “We create equipment to meet and exceed the requirements of our customers, all backed with industry leading warranties.”

Stärke's new XVI 40-50 includes several cutting-edge design elements. These include a superior turning radius, a floating transmission that reduces vibration, an open view mast and tilt cylinder allowing for better visibility, and wet disc brakes, just to name a few. The ergonomics included in this design will offer additional comfort for the operator, ultimately improving moral while contributing to a more efficient workplace.

It shouldn’t come as a surprise to hear that Stärke Material Handling Group has also incorporated innovative design features across its entire line of forklifts, lift trucks and utility vehicles. And, with these innovations establishing a firm foundation for our brand, Stärke has developed a comprehensive product line that is second to none.

Features such as these will be featured in monthly video releases as Stärke works to provide a constant stream of educational – yet entertaining – content for dealers and end-users alike. Each video will feature our industry experts examining a new product or innovation to demonstrate how Stärke designs are capable of improving the efficiency and productivity of your warehouse, factory or greenhouse!

“Providing outstanding support to our dealers and customers has always been a part of who we are at Stärke. In today’s networked society, this means creating relevant content that provides entertainment and advice when and where people want to find it. That’s what these videos are all about for us,” comments Justin Engel, Stärke’s Marketing Specialist.

Visit Starke's Youtube page to learn about our new XVI series of forklifts, watch other videos on Stärke innovations and subscribe to the Stärke YouTube channel to see our entire lineup of videos and much more! Alternatively, follow this link to view or download the product brochure.

www.starkeforklift.com

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

The Benefits of Regenerative Braking on Electric Forklifts

Regenerative braking is a braking system that can recapture much of the truck's kinetic energy and convert it into electricity, so that it can be used to recharge the batteries. This process prolongs the battery run-time in your forklift allowing for more up-time while the truck is in service. This system is available on all Stärke electric forklifts.

A significant reduction in brake wear is another reason to look for regenerative braking on your electric truck. This technology works in such a way where the electric motor of the forklift is used to slow down the truck when the operator backs off on the accelerator to slow down or during a direction change which minimizes the amount of time that the operator needs to use the brake pedal.

Does your Forklift include an anti-rollback feature?

The Stärke 3 & 4 wheel Energy (electric) forklifts all include this protective feature to assist in preventing accidents in the workplace. Including anti-rollback protection is a must when dealing with steep inclines and grades. For example; this system adds an added layer of protection against the forklift rolling back on a ramp when the brake pedal is not applied. This feature also offers increased ramp start-up abilities.

How does the anti-rollback system work? The machine must be turned on and in gear with throttle released. Then the mechanism will electrically stop the forklift from rolling back while the brake is released.

Note: the anti-rollback feature will not work unless the forklift is in operation. Never leave the seat of your forklift when on a ramp, regardless of the added protection an anti-rollback system offers. The operator is always responsible for their machine, and should remain in the unit when on a ramp, steep grade, or while the forklift is in operation.

For more on the impressive line of electric Stärke Energy Forklifts, visit the website

Do Your Lifting Devices Feature a Corrosion Inhibitor like Zinc Dichromate?

Over two and a half billion dollars a year - just in the United States - is spent to combat rust deterioration of fittings across multiple industries. Why expose your equipment to this kind of wear? Tube fittings are rarely replaced at the first sign of corrosion, and yet the longer they are left, adjacent parts like hoses and hydraulic components, can begin to corrode at accelerated rates. To some materials handling equipment manufacturers, the inclusion of Zinc Dichromate is cost-prohibitive, but companies like Stärke consider it a long-term investment rather than a short-term pricing decision.

Stärke forklifts and lift trucks come with Zinc Dichromate fittings as standard. This supports the Stärke Motto: Stärke is Strength. Regardless of the costly upgrades you will find on Stärke products, the price is always competitive.

For a List of the Devastating Effects Red Rust Deterioration of Fittings can cause, please see below:

• system contamination
• potential leaks
• fitting connection problems
• aesthetic quality concerns from end user
• maintenance difficulty
• improper function of adjacent components (valves, pumps, cylinders)
• accelerated corrosion of adjacent components

The cost implications of fitting corrosion with mobile equipment can become life-threatening if left ignored.

If you’re looking for strength in your materials handling equipment at a cost that will under-cut their competitors, find a Stärke dealer near you - American dealers and Canadian dealers

Propane forklift Operators in the United States are now Eligible for Fuel Tax Credit.

Congress has extended the 50-cents-per-gallon alternative fuel tax credit to forklift operators. This is under the Unemployment Insurance Re-authorization and Job Creation Act. Propane is a popular option for many materials handling businesses and made even more attractive with this new tax credit. The IRS has defined forklifts as off-highway business motor vehicles, and thus eligible for this cost-savings opportunity.

There are some steps each forklift operator will need to take in registering with the IRS before they can realize the tax benefits - such as filing Form 637 to become an Alternative Fueler. Once the forklift driver receives their registration number, they can claim for the credit at the end of the year by filing Form 4136.

Stärke Material Handling Group offers exceptional LPG forklifts with standardized options, excellent warranties and attractive pricing. Find your Stärke dealer in the United States or Canada

ColoradoLift gets a Website Facelift Supporting the Stärke Line of Products

Looking for the very best materials handling equipment in the state of Colorado? ColoradoLift has recently re-imagined their web presence by rebuilding their website with the assistance of their top manufacturer: Stärke Material Handling Group. This rebuild will make it exceptionally easier for the end-user to find Stärke product like Forklifts, Lift Trucks, Electric Utility Vehicles, Pallet Stackers, Stock Pickers and more in the Colorado region.

Employing some of the most up to date search engine optimization techniques, ColoradoLift is excited to launch their business into the competition-heavy online market. Though the company has had a web presence for many years, a website of ten years ago does not offer an efficient and user-friendly experience. Operating as one of the top forklift distributors in Colorado - ColoradoLift recognized that they needed an online presence which reflected their successful business model.

Future online initiatives are to build a dynamic industry blog, become an active member on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+, and begin adding articles to a LinkedIn profile. Recognizing the importance of a quality online presence is paramount in staying ahead of the competition; and the material handling industry is no exception.

ColoradoLift carries Cascade Attachments for your forklift, OEM and aftermarket parts for your forklifts, a forklift rental fleet,and offers expert forklift services in Colorado. If you`re in need of Forklift Training, Colorado Lift also offers the most comprehensive training in the state of Colorado.


Servicing Fort Collins, Boulder, Denver Metro Area, Colorado Springs,Pueblo, Fort Collins, Pueblo and more.
 
Contact them today for more information

Is your forklift ready to be be energy efficient and survive the cold this winter?

It's common sense; be prepared and you'll be in a better position to endure winter's rage, incur less downtime and burn less fuel. Generally winter will have you burning more fuel due to cold starts and increased idling to warm up the engine.

Recently I spoke with Stärke Material Handling Group's Technical Advisor, Arnold Poulsen on how to prepare a forklift for the wrath of winter, and keep it working efficiently. Arnold advises the following:

1. Use of block heaters for ease of starting and minimal warm-up time conserves fuel
2. Store forklifts indoors for warm starting conditions…conserving fuel
3. Ensure engines are properly maintained and tuned-up; ready for winter and quick start-ups
4. Use proper oil for your environment. Recommend 15W-40 in moderately cold temperatures to -15 degrees C. For extreme cold over -15 degrees C he recommends a 5W-20 grade. Consult with your forklift technician for an oil that suits your application.
5. If your forklift has a cabin; make sure that your wiper(s) are in good condition, your heater is functioning properly and that the seals on the cabin are keeping cold air out.

With regards to winter tips, keeping your forklift running and safe; a blog post by Jason Fancy of Forklift Central really states things best. You can see this article here.

For more information contact your local Stärke Material Handling Dealer located near you - Starke Forklifts

Stärke Material Handling Group is expanding.

December, 12^th, 2014. Thorold, Ontario, Canada.

Stärke Material Handling Group is expanding. With the recent hire of Michael Poeltl, Stärke’s new Marketing and Dealer Development Specialist, late in the fourth quarter of 2014, a new and more diverse plan to market the company’s interests throughout North America has been realized.

With a full line of pallet jacks, stacker lifts, reach lifts, order pickers, lift trucks and forklifts, Stärke has positioned itself as an industry giant when presenting its product line to end-users and dealers alike. With a strong understanding of product and industry knowledge along with a team of experts in business and product development, sales, marketing, parts and services, Stärke Material Handling Group is being touted as the next big thing in the material handling industry.

A growing dealer network throughout North America shows that the strength, value and support Stärke is offering dealers is not being overlooked. Stärke IS strength, after all, and their strength in people, business and clout has captured the industries interest.

“With more activity online in 2015 we expect to see great things in both dealer relations and sales.” Says Jim Chesla, Stärke’s Vice President. “The industry is learning that our truck line can’t be beat in strength, quality and value, and with Michael on board, we see a partnering of talents that can only benefit the company and our dealer network across multiple platforms.”

Stärke is affiliated with parent companies which have been in the material handling business since 1939. This combination of experience, new equipment offerings and the talented people who are quickly making Stärke a success story, positions them to explode in 2015. Thus any dealer that has signed up or is about to sign up to represent Stärke material handling equipment ought to get ready for a great year!

For more on Stärke Material Handling Group visit www.starkusa.com  / www.starkecanada.com