Productivity is key in farming, which is why many farms rely on forklift trucks. These versatile machines are built to handle heavy loads, saving farmers time and effort, whether it’s moving hay bales, stacking supplies or loading trucks.
However, all forklifts aren’t created equal. Choosing the right forklift for your agricultural operations is essential if you want to get the most out of it. Below, we equip you with the knowledge to select the ideal farm forklift for your specific needs confidently.
Understanding Farm Forklift Needs
Unlike their industrial counterparts, farm forklifts must contend with unique challenges. Here are some key considerations for farm applications:
Terrain
Start by considering the unique demands of your agricultural work when choosing a forklift. Compared to warehouses or other indoor settings, farms often feature rough, uneven, soft or muddy terrain, which can pose challenges for traditional forklifts.
As such, looking for a forklift with features like high ground clearance, all-terrain tyres and four-wheel drive is important to ensure maximum stability and traction in any conditions.
Lift Capacity and Load Type
From hay bales to fertiliser sacks, agricultural loads can be heavy and bulky, requiring a forklift with suitable lifting muscle. Some of the best agricultural forklifts on the market offer lift capacities from 2,500kg to 5,000kg, making them well-suited for even the most demanding applications.
In addition to lift capacity, also consider the type of load you’ll be transporting. For example, if you’re moving pallets of feed or other bagged goods, a traditional forklift with forks may be sufficient.
However, if you’re transporting loose materials like hay or silage, you may need a specialised attachment like a bale clamp to get the job done.
Manoeuvrability
Farm life doesn’t always happen in wide-open fields. Barns, storage sheds and animal pens often have tight spaces and narrow aisles—which is why a forklift’s manoeuvrability is crucial.
A forklift that struggles to turn corners or navigate tight spaces can quickly bottleneck your operation, slowing down tasks and potentially causing damage to equipment or buildings.
Power and Performance
When it comes to power and performance, there are various options available:
- Diesel-powered forklifts are a popular choice for agricultural settings, thanks to their high torque output and ability to operate for extended periods without refuelling.
- Electric forklifts are also becoming increasingly popular, thanks to their quiet operation and zero emissions.
Whichever forklift you choose, make sure the model is durable. Farm equipment endures long hours and demanding conditions, requiring a robust and reliable machine.
Top Forklift Choices for Farms
The best forklift choices for farms include the following:
1. Telehandlers
Offering exceptional lift heights, reach and versatility, telehandlers excel at dealing with tall loads like hay bales, stacking them in barns or trailers. Their telescopic boom can also extend horizontally, making them perfect for loading and unloading trucks.
Many telehandlers boast four-wheel drive and high ground clearance, conquering uneven farm terrain with ease. While they generally have a higher initial investment, telehandlers’ adaptability can eliminate the need for multiple machines.
2. Rough Terrain Forklifts
Designed for challenging outdoor environments, rough terrain forklifts feature large, knobby tyres for superior traction on dirt, gravel or mud. They often have increased ground clearance for navigating obstacles.
Ideal for transporting heavy loads across fields, these forklifts excel in tasks like spreading fertiliser or moving livestock feed. While not suited for high-bay stacking like telehandlers, rough terrain models offer excellent stability and a lower centre of gravity – perfect for uneven surfaces.
3. Compact Utility Tractors (CUTs) with Forklift Attachments
Cost-effective and versatile, CUTs are small tractors that can be equipped with various forklift attachments. This allows them to handle lighter loads while retaining the tractor’s functionality for mowing, tilling or other farm tasks.
Well-suited for smaller farms or those requiring a multi-purpose machine, CUTs with forklift attachments offer a flexible solution for diverse tasks. Just note that their lifting capacities tend to be lower than dedicated forklifts, making them unsuitable for heavy loads.
Finding the Best Forklift for Your Needs
Ultimately, the best forklift for your agricultural needs will depend on various factors, including the size and layout of your facility, the types of loads you’ll be transporting and your budget.
However, you can find the perfect machine for your needs by keeping these key considerations in mind and working with a reputable forklift dealer like TAG Forklift Trucks.
TAG Forklift Trucks: Your Partner for Agricultural Forklifts
When it comes to agricultural forklifts, there is a wide range of options available to suit every need and budget. By considering factors like terrain, lift capacity, load type and power source, you can find the right machine to help you tackle any job with ease and efficiency.
At TAG Forklifts, we understand the unique demands of farm operations. Our extensive range includes new and used forklifts from leading manufacturers. Our expert staff can assess your needs and recommend the perfect farm forklift to optimise your agricultural productivity.
Contact TAG Forklifts today and let’s discuss how we can empower your farm with the ideal forklift solution!
