Globally, lithium-ion forklifts are experiencing a rapid increase in demand. A report by Interact Analysis earlier this year predicted that soon, lithium-ion forklifts will dominate the market – and it isn’t difficult to see why.
Compared with lead acid, lithium-ion forklifts promise an instantaneous boost in productivity in many work environments. This, coupled with low maintenance fees, ensures a quick redemption of the higher initial cost.
However, it’s always best to minimise that initial cost as much as possible. This includes properly preparing your workspace for the changes that come with a lithium-ion forklift. Doing so will lessen many of the common mistakes made during this transition. In this article, discover some considerations and methods for easing the shift to lithium-ion.
Is Lithium-Ion the Right Fit for Me?
The first question to consider is, of course, whether you should make the change to lithium-ion in the first place.
While there are many factors to take into account, it is generally best to opt for lithium-ion when your workplace operates on a multi-shift basis. In such environments, forklifts can be charged between use, maximising the benefits of lithium-ion batteries.
Additionally, workplaces with cold storage will likely see many benefits from lithium-ion forklifts. This is because, unlike lead acid, lithium-ion batteries do not lose much power at lower temperatures.
For more information or comparisons on lithium-ion and lead acid forklifts, look here.
What are the Main Issues Workplaces Encounter when Switching to Lithium-Ion?
In general, the main issues most workplaces face involve the shift in routine. Lithium-ion forklifts primarily benefit from opportunity charging. Opportunity charging refers to charging that occurs during short breaks when changing shifts, having lunch, etc. Doing so maintains battery health and ensures maximum productivity for your workspace.
Workplaces used to lead-acid batteries often have problems remembering to opportunity charge. This is because they are likely accustomed to charging at the end of the day. As such, they may require some assistance in remembering to charge whenever opportunity allows.
How do I Prepare my Warehouse for the Switch?
There are a few precautions you can take to ensure a smoother transition, including:
Prepare Operators for the Change
Brief operators on the importance of opportunity charging, and provide examples. This will help them change up their routine to better suit the needs of a lithium-ion forklift.
Consult Supervisors and Operators on Charge Locations
Have charging stations scattered around the place. Doing this provides convenience that will encourage workers to charge forklifts whenever possible. However, be sure to ask your supervisors and operators where they think charging stations will be most easily used to maximise this encouragement.
Create Guidelines for Charging
Have a guide workers can refer to in case they are unsure whether to charge. This should include ideas such as when they are on lunch, during quick breaks, etc.
Consider Printing Reminders
Print reminders to charge and post them around the workspace. These posters can provide your workers with a visual cue that will remind them to charge when the forklift is idle. Consider using bright colours that are different to other signs at your work so workers eventually associate the colour with the reminder without even having to read it.
Adjust Work Shifts
Since lithium-ion forklifts are well adjusted to multi-shift workplaces, you can start to increase the number of shifts per day while maintaining battery charge. Lithium-Ion forklifts also experience very little differences in power no matter the charge, meaning there is less need to account for times of lower efficiency.
Expect Adjustment Periods
All of these ideas can help mitigate the issues that could arise with change, but they do not guarantee a total lack of issues. Expect that mistakes are likely to be made as everyone adjusts to new layouts and new routines so that you can be ready to deal with them when they occur.
Where can I get a Lithium-Ion Forklift?
Jialift Australia has an extensive range of high-quality, lithium-ion forklifts for you to choose from. With rent, buy, and rent-to-buy options, our customer service team is sure to find the right fit for you both financially and practically.
For more information, browse our lithium-ion forklift range here, or contact us today on 1300 000 168 to find out more.
