In today’s constantly evolving global economy, tariffs can have a significant impact on capital equipment purchases - driving up prices on internationally produced equipment. For warehouse operations leaders and distribution managers, rising costs have the potential to impact budgets, timelines, and day-to-day operations. And with recent tariff actions already increasing the cost of capital equipment, it’s now more important than ever to consider smart procurement alternatives that can help you maintain productivity while protecting your company’s bottom line.

We often receive questions about operating an electric forklift in various weather conditions. Because these forklifts rely on complex electrical components, it is important to know when and where you can run your electric forklift.

Three frequently asked questions we receive about using electric forklifts in the rain are:

1. Are electric forklifts able to operate in the rain?
2. How waterproof are electric forklifts?
3. What safety precautions should I take in the rain?

As we approach the end of 2024, businesses continue to look for ways to reduce operational expenses while investing in areas that support their growing business needs. Many companies experiencing greater customer demand need additional equipment to process more orders through their warehouses, distribution centers, or other facilities. Section 179 of the US Tax Code enables businesses to save money by allowing companies to deduct the entire purchase price of qualifying new and used equipment from their taxable profits.

Often one of the best ways for busy warehouse managers to improve efficiency in new and existing facilities is by finding a warehouse solutions business partner who can provide strategic direction, systems integration expertise, and streamlined implementation for any project or initiative. If you think you could benefit from onboarding a partner, there’s a lot more to consider than proximity and cost. Read more to find out the types of questions you should ask in your search and the factors you should consider to ensure maximum success for your warehouse.

Companies with large warehouses for storing goods and materials are always looking for solutions to improve operations, typically seeking to increase efficiency and throughput or store more inventory. They often use narrow aisle layouts in order to fit additional rows of racking and maximize their storage space. With these narrow aisle or very narrow aisle (VNA) warehouse designs, businesses also need equipment to easily navigate through these tight spaces without damaging goods or pallet racks. Articulated forklifts work really well in VNA operations, offering several ways to boost efficiency and optimize storage space. Their rotating design enables articulated forklifts to maneuver in confined spaces, and the shorter mast height allows them to also be used to unload trailers. These versatile forklifts help simplify a myriad of tasks within a warehouse and are a valuable addition to many forklift fleets.

Efficient inventory management is critical for companies to remain competitive in today's fast-paced business world. One way to gain an edge is by incorporating an automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS) into an existing warehouse or distribution center. This technology has transformed warehouse operations, helping businesses increase efficiency, accuracy, and productivity, while providing the opportunity for employees to focus their energy on more complex tasks.

A pallet jack, also called a pallet truck, lifts and moves pallets of goods around a distribution center, warehouse, or industrial facility. They are available in manual or electric operation, each of which has its own advantages. Read on to learn about the key differences between these two types of pallet jacks and determine which is better suited for your workplace.

Effectively managing a warehouse is all about balance.

When order volume is low, equipment may sit unused for weeks or months. But if you don’t have a big enough forklift fleet during peak season, you won’t be able to keep up with the increase in demand.

If your warehouse falls victim to seasonality, there’s a secret weapon that can keep you ahead of the curve: seasonal forklift rentals.

Many warehouses and distribution centers have limited space, but continue to deal with increases in inventory. This presents a big challenge for facility managers, who are constantly under pressure to optimize available storage space. When a warehouse hits about 85% of its occupancy, it is considered "out of space." Are you getting close to that percentage but want to avoid expensive upgrades?

Demand for electric forklifts continues to increase. According to the Industrial Truck Association (ITA), electric forklifts represent nearly 70% of all factory shipments in the United States. This trend will only continue, as electric forklifts offer greater efficiency, versatility and cost savings when compared to gas forklifts.

Are you debating whether to add electric forklifts to your operation? There are many undeniable benefits that make them a preferred choice over gas powered lift trucks.

When you manage an entire fleet of equipment within a warehouse or distribution center, forklift fleet telematics provide you with real-time information that can dramatically improve how your business functions. These connected devices feature advanced software that allows you to keep track of lift truck operators, manage forklift access, optimize routes, and comply with safety regulations. Telematics can help you manage risks, stay ahead of maintenance and productivity issues before they arise, and create a safer operation for all of your employees. Here are a few things to know about equipment fleet telematics and the benefits they offer your business.

When planning to move into a new warehouse or distribution center, there are many factors to consider beyond size and location. Use the building checklist below to confirm the facility you select will meet your needs today while enabling the possibility for expansion in the future.

When moving materials over rough terrain in outdoor environments, it's essential to have the right forklift for the job. Since some forklifts do not have the durability to work under strenuous conditions, you need to ensure you use a model that can operate efficiently and safely on unstable surfaces while lifting heavy loads. If you're looking for material handling equipment for these types of applications, your best choice is a rough-terrain forklift.

As more companies look for ways to create additional space in their warehouses to meet demand and boost productivity, they need well-designed pallet racks. Pallet racking systems can maximize the capacity and efficiency of a warehouse. With the right storage racking solution, distribution managers can increase their throughput, improve productivity, and ensure their product is safely stored.

When you rely on electric forklifts to run your business, the industrial batteries you select to power your fleet affect your team’s productivity. There are many shapes, sizes, and types of forklift batteries. Each kind offers unique benefits, such as reduced charging time, longer run times, decreased maintenance, or a lower price point.

When it comes to food warehousing and distribution, time is always of the essence. Today’s consumers expect a wide variety of fresh food options available at a moment’s notice. That’s why the benefits of automation are so important.