How to Choose the Best Telehandler for Your Project

April 8th 2024

How to Choose the Best Telehandler for Your Project

Are you starting a new project that requires versatile, heavy lifting equipment? With the reach of a crane, combined with the lifting strength of a forklift, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a machine more efficient and versatile than a telescopic forklift (or telehandler, for short). These powerful machines (also known as reach forklifts) are perfect for a wide range of agricultural, industrial, and construction tasks. Able to be paired with an assortment of attachments, such as buckets, pallet forks, and grapples, telehandlers can do the work of several machines, boosting productivity on site and minimising costs. 

Although telehandlers add unparalleled value to a work site, several factors need to be taken into consideration when choosing the best one for your project. 

• How much does it need to lift?

As telehandlers come with different load capacities, it is essential that you select a model that can safely lift the equipment or materials that your project requires. Forcing a telehandler to lift above its load capacity can lead to suboptimal performance and, most seriously, poses a considerable safety risk to employees and bystanders. 

• How high will it need to lift and extend loads?

Another important consideration is how high your machine will be required to lift loads. The lifting capacity of a telehandler decreases as the boom is extended to reach specific heights or distances. Refer to the load chart to discover safe lifting weights according to attachment, angle, and height. Selecting a telehandler with an appropriate lifting height and reach for your project requirements enables you to enhance efficiency, minimise the need for repositioning, and eliminates the risk of the machine tipping over.

• What are the working environment conditions?

When choosing a telehandler for your project, you also need to consider the conditions of the worksite environment, such as whether you require it to be used indoors or outdoors. Space limitations and terrain can significantly affect manoeuvrability and how efficiently reach forklifts operate. Indoor projects typically demand compact telehandlers with superior manoeuvrability whereas outdoor projects with uneven terrain will require a telehandler with enhanced stability and off-road capabilities.

• What attachments do you require?

Choosing a suitable machine also comes down to knowing which telehandler attachments you need. For example, buckets are perfect for material handling, while platforms provide an elevated workspace. Make sure to check the loading capacity to be sure it can lift the attachment you need. 

How can SANY help you with your telehandler needs?

SANY offers telehandlers that are powerful all-rounders due to their speed, efficiency, and agility. With a range of tailored attachments, our telehandlers are suitable for diverse applications. To learn more, contact your local dealer.