From vast warehouses to bustling shipping yards, forklifts keep things moving by lifting, transporting, and stacking pallets, machinery and other goods. Their versatility and ability to handle heavy loads not only make them invaluable assets but also squarely place forklifts in the commercial vehicle category.
Definition of a Commercial Motor Vehicle
In the UK, a commercial vehicle is generally defined as any motor vehicle that’s used for transporting goods or materials in connection with a trade or business. This includes vehicles like pickup trucks, vans, trailers and specialised equipment like forklifts and other lifting machinery.
The main difference between a commercial and non-commercial vehicle is its intended use. While personal or recreational vehicles may occasionally transport goods or materials, it’s not primarily designed or used for that purpose. Commercial vehicles, on the other hand, are specifically built and used to transport goods or materials in a business setting.
How Forklift Trucks Fit into the Commercial Vehicle Category
So, is a forklift a commercial vehicle? Yes, because they meet the criteria of being designed and used primarily to transport goods in a business or trade environment:
- Forklifts are specialised pieces of equipment that are used to lift and move materials, typically on pallets or in shipping containers.
- They’re commonly found in warehouses, distribution centres and other industrial settings where goods need to be moved quickly and efficiently.
- Businesses also use forklift trucks in construction, agriculture and other industries where heavy materials need to be transported.
One of the key features that distinguishes forklifts from other types of commercial vehicles is their lifting capability. Unlike trucks or trailers, which are designed to transport goods horizontally, forklifts have a vertical mast and lifting mechanism that allows them to pick up and move loads vertically and horizontally.
This makes them ideal for stacking and unstacking pallets, loading and unloading trucks and other tasks that require precise vertical movement.
Types of Commercial Forklifts
There are several different types of commercial forklifts, each designed for specific applications and environments. Some of the most common types include:
Counterbalance Forklifts
These are the most common type of forklift, featuring a weight at the rear of the machine that counterbalances the load being lifted. Counterbalance forklifts are versatile and can be used indoors or outdoors.
Reach Trucks
These forklifts are designed for narrow aisle operation and feature a telescoping mast that allows them to reach into high storage racks. They’re commonly used in warehouses and distribution centres.
Rough Terrain Forklifts
These machines are designed for outdoor use on uneven or unstable surfaces. They feature large, heavy-duty tyres and a more rugged construction than other types of forklifts.
Pallet Jacks
Also known as pallet trucks, these are smaller, more manoeuvrable forklifts designed for moving pallets short distances. They’re commonly used in warehouses and retail settings.
Sideloaders
These forklifts are designed to lift and transport long loads, such as lumber or pipes, that standard forklifts can’t handle.
Regulations and Requirements for Commercial Forklifts
As commercial vehicles, forklifts are subject to various regulations and requirements in the UK. These include:
- Operator training – Forklift drivers must be properly trained and certified to operate the specific type of machine. This training covers topics like safe operation, load handling and maintenance.
- Regular maintenance and inspection – Commercial forklifts must be regularly maintained and inspected to ensure they work safely. This includes daily checks by the operator and more thorough inspections by qualified forklift mechanics.
- Insurance – Businesses operating commercial forklifts must have appropriate insurance coverage to protect against accidents and liability.
- Health and safety regulations – Forklifts are subject to a range of health and safety regulations, including requirements for safe operation, load handling and storage.
The Importance of Proper Forklift Selection and Maintenance
Given the critical role that forklifts play in many businesses, selecting the right machine for the job and properly maintaining it over time is essential. This involves considering factors like the type and weight of loads being handled, the environment the forklift will be used in and the specific tasks being performed.
Proper maintenance is also crucial to ensure that forklifts remain safe and reliable over time. This includes regular inspections, servicing and repairs to keep the machine in top working condition. Neglecting maintenance can lead to increased downtime, reduced efficiency and even accidents or injuries.
TAG Forklifts: Your Partner in Forklift Solutions
In the UK, forklifts are considered commercial motor vehicles. As such, they’re subject to different regulations and requirements, including operator training, regular maintenance and inspection, insurance, and health and safety regulations.
At TAG Forklift Trucks, we understand the importance of proper forklift selection and maintenance for businesses that rely on these essential machines. As a leading provider of forklift hire, sales and service in the North West, we offer a wide range of commercial forklifts to suit every application and budget, from counterbalance trucks and reach trucks to rough terrain forklifts and pallet jacks.
Contact us today to learn more about our commercial forklift solutions.