4 Qualities to Look For in a Forklift Dealer

A forklift is a major investment, and shopping for one can be a daunting experience if you haven't found a good dealer. Here are four top qualities to look for in a forklift dealer.

A Wide Selection of Vehicles

A good forklift dealer will have a wide selection of lift trucks for you to choose from, and know how to help you navigate the inventory based on your needs. They should carry all the trusted brands, such as Cat Lift Trucks, Jungheinrich, Lift King,  Kalmar, Big Joe, Mitsubishi, Aisle Master, and Princeton Piggybacks. They should offer a variety of forklift types, with various fuel types, including electric, diesel, and propane. They should offer new models, plus a wide array of used forklifts in good condition, with warranty options. It’s also good to find a dealer with forklifts for rent. Renting is convenient for seasonal and temporary needs, and can also help you and your workers evaluate a forklift to decide if it’s appropriate for purchase. Ask if the dealer offers short-term and long-term rentals, and make sure they don’t charge an arm and a leg for extra days if a project runs long. 

Parts, Maintenance & Repair Options

A good dealer has a wide variety of parts available. This should include guaranteed aftermarket brands like Promatch as well as the official parts for the forklift brands you use. Ask the dealer how long they take to deliver parts. Also check out their maintenance and repair options. Some dealers offer maintenance programs that do so much for you that you won’t have to hire an extra maintenance person. Dealers with good technicians are able to tweak a forklift to meet your needs.

Experience and Reputation

Before choosing a dealer, ask colleagues in your industry who they trust. Also, check out how long a dealer has been in business. An experienced dealer has more solutions at their disposal, and knows how to get what you need in the most efficient way. 

Convenience of Locations

To get prompt attention from a dealer for sales, rentals, repairs, parts or maintenance, it’s convenient to choose a dealer close to your workplace. Dealers with multiple locations in your area are also likely to have a wider variety of units and parts available, and more technicians who can service your vehicles. 

If you’re interested in forklift sales or rentals, come and talk to us at Ring Power Lift Trucks. For 60 years, our locally-owned and operated business has provided superior products and the newest technology in forklifts, exceeding our customers’ expectations. With 14 convenient locations throughout Florida, Ring Power Corporation has become one of the largest Caterpillar® dealers in the Southeastern United States because of our dedication to customer service. Whether you need to buy a new or used forklift, or you’d prefer a short-term or long-term forklift rental, we’re here for you. We also supply forklift parts and service in north and central Florida for every make and model of forklift.  Call 877.544.5438 or visit our website for more information.