Houston Forklift
In a city the size of Houston, there are dozens of companies offering sales and rentals of forklift trucks and other material handling equipment. Working out who can deliver the best solution for your business is no simple task.
If you're setting up a new business you'll need to consider the type of forklift best suited to your industry and check what suitable makes and models each dealer can provide. Picking the wrong equipment can hamper your productivity and cost a small fortune in the process.
No need to worry though. My guide to the best lift companies in Houston, Texas will help you find exactly what you need.
The 3 Best Forklift Companies In Houston
#1 Best for Complete Warehousing Solutions - HTX Material Handling
With a range of forklifts on offer from top brands Linde, Hubtex, and Baoli, HTX Manual Handling is bound to stock a model to fit your precise requirements.
If you're not sure which model will best suit you in the long term, HTX offers a rental service you can use either on an ongoing basis or as a means to try before you buy.
Parts, servicing, and repairs are all handled by HTX, including reasonably priced planned maintenance programs, so you can operate any of their forklifts with complete peace of mind.
The good folks at HTX Material Handling offer a lot more than just forklift sales and rentals.
Their warehouse management services include storage systems, conveyors, warehouse automation, and full material handling solutions comprising sorting systems in addition to inbound and outbound handling. Whether you're looking to start from scratch or carry out a major overhaul on a Houston, TX. warehousing operation, HTX can support you every step of the way.
#2 Best for Heavy Industrial Equipment - Darr Equipment
Darr Equipment is a stockist for industry-leading forklifts, terminal tractors, container handling rigs, and other industrial utility vehicles.
Several top forklift manufacturers are represented including Toyota, Kalmar, Lift King, Hubtex, Unicarriers, and more.
With diesel, propane, and electric forklifts rated from 5000-100,000+lbs, Darr Equipment have the right lift for almost any application.
Regardless of whether you need a forklift for a small warehousing operation or your material handling needs relate to the largest-scale construction projects, Darr Equipment's inventory includes all the gear needed to maximize your efficiency and productivity.
New equipment, used forklifts, repairs, and servicing are all available from Darr Equipment but that's not all. The company also offers a full suite of safety training courses, including the all-important OSHA Required Operator Training certification in addition to technical and service training. If your operations are extensive enough, you may even want to consider their "Train the Trainer" program, so your experienced operators/technicians can learn how to train up the new recruits in-house.
#3 Best for Used Forklifts - Southeast Forklifts of Houston
If you're looking for used equipment in Houston, TX. Southeast Forklifts of Houston have a vast inventory of pre-owned forklifts from several leading manufacturers available for sale or rent.
all used lifts are reconditioned to pass a rigorous mechanical inspection (60 points) and come with finance options and warranties similar to those you would normally expect when purchasing a brand new forklift truck.
If you are looking to buy new forklifts to replace older models you currently own, Southeast Forklifts are always on the lookout for new inventory and are guaranteed to give you a fair price for your old equipment.
In addition to their sales and rentals, Southeast Forklifts of Houston pride themselves on the quality of their mechanical services.
Their highly qualified technicians offer complete maintenance and repair services. Having experience with the various brands the company stocks, they are able to swiftly conduct high-quality repairs on most makes and models.
Factors To Know When Buying In Houston
Types of Forklift
The power plant of different forklifts affects the workplace environment for which they are suited, as well as maintenance costs and performance specifications. For indoor use, electric lifts are generally more maneuverable and have zero emissions, while diesel forklifts excel in terms of load capacity and durability for outdoor work.
You must also consider the material being moved. Loads consisting of fragile palleted inventory will require different material handling equipment to construction materials, for example. When choosing a forklift dealer, ensure the models in their inventory match your needs as well as your budget.
Sales and Rentals
Most Houston forklift dealers have both new equipment and pre-owned lifts in their inventory. If you are particular about manufacturers, this will limit your options. Houston has official dealers for various brands, including industry-leading Toyota, Kalmar, Caterpillar, and forklifts. Remember to ask about financing options if you don't want to pay the full price upfront.
That said, purchasing new or used equipment isn't your only option. You may prefer to rent a forklift, especially if you only need this extra equipment for a temporary industrial contract. Houston boasts several companies with a good selection of forklift rentals. It's always good practice to compare prices between companies and check for long-term rental discounts.
Parts and Servicing
Almost any forklift dealer or rental company will also supply spare parts. When purchasing any new material handling equipment, always check the warranty terms relating to parts and servicing. The right warranty can save you a great deal of money and hassle. Many reputable companies, such as Southwest Forklifts of Houston, also offer warranties on used forklift sales.
The cost and availability of parts is an important consideration when choosing forklift brands. You also need to make sure there is a company in Houston, Texas who can service your chosen model of lift. Opting for a forklift from one of the larger manufacturers will help in this regard.
Additional Services
As well as sales, parts, and repairs, some material handling companies offer a broader range of services. Operator safety training, warehouse design support, safety signage, and forklift-friendly storage solutions are just some of the extras you may be able to access. It's always worth asking your chosen equipment provider in Houston, TX. what other services their customers benefit from.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best forklift dealer is about more than just finding a company that stocks the type or brand of lift you're looking for.
Your new equipment isn't going to be used in isolation, so think carefully about what other services you require, be it maintenance and operator training for the forklifts, your other material handling equipment needs, or assistance with improving the efficiency of your warehousing operations.
The best company to work with is usually the one that can support multiple aspects of your business needs.
