The Best Forklift: Counterbalance vs Multidirectional

Counterbalance vs Multidirectional

One of the most essential pieces of equipment for any kind of warehouse is the forklift. But forklifts aren’t a one-size-fits-all type of machinery. In your search for the best forklift, you’ll find multidirectional and counterbalance options. Here’s a brief overview of both these types of forklifts to help you make the decision that’s right for your warehouse.

What Is a Counterbalance Forklift?

Counterbalance forklifts are the most commonly used forklift variety. When a layperson thinks of a forklift, they are most likely envisioning a counterbalance forklift. The forks of this piece of equipment are out front. There are no outrigger legs or arms. This allows you to drive right up to your load or racking—no reach needed! Typically, these forklifts are limited to indoor use.

This type of forklift gets its name because the back end is very heavy to balance out the weight of whatever the vehicle is lifting in the front. If it weren’t for the additional weight in the back, the vehicle could tip over because of how imbalanced it would be.

This variety of forklift can be powered by electricity, gas, or diesel. However, electric forklifts have the advantage of not needing as much weight on the back end. This is because the battery is already on the back end of the vehicle adding weight. Of course, the electric option doesn’t contribute to air pollution.  

What Is a Multidirectional Forklift?

A multidirectional forklift is known for its ability to move in all directions: front, back, and to either side. This makes maneuvering even the longest, most awkward loads easy. This piece of machinery is versatile and can be used on the narrowest aisles indoors as well as outdoors.

With a multidirectional forklift, you don’t have to give up the advantages of the counterbalance forklift. These vehicles still have the added weight in the back for stability.

A huge benefit of this type of forklift is that it helps increase storage space. You won’t need to be storing multiple types of forklifts to accomplish your everyday tasks. The aisles in your warehouse also only need to be as wide as the forklifts. Because a multidirectional forklift is better equipped to handle large loads, even in tight spaces, utilizing one of them leads to less user error and less product damage.

Multidirectional forklifts can come in diesel, electric, or gas. Once again, there are numerous advantages to opting for electric. They are a quieter forklift which is helpful since there is already a large amount of noise in most warehouses. There’s typically less maintenance and the cost of ownership is usually cheaper in the long run. You also won’t have to worry about outside storage for tanks!

Select the Best Forklift for Your Organization’s Needs from Paves Asia Pacific Pte Ltd

A forklift is far too important to your warehouse to settle for anything less than the best. Your organization’s efficiency and productivity depend on it! Paves Asia Pacific Pte Ltd offers multidirectional Combilift forklifts. Since Combilift has been a leader in lifting innovation for two decades and counting, you can trust their expertise to set your warehouse up for success.

Paves offers flexible warranties of 5 years or 5000 hours. Optimize your warehouse by getting in touch with us and getting yours today!