1. Define the load and its destination
Start with the heaviest load, dimensions and centre of gravity, then locate the pickup and placement points. Include any obstruction that prevents a direct approach. Ask whether the customer needs vertical stacking, placement beyond an obstacle or several different handling tasks. A maximum lift-height figure alone does not describe a useful equipment specification.
2. Evaluate capacity at the actual working point
Obtain the capacity chart for the exact model, attachment and setup being offered. Maximum rated load, maximum height and maximum reach are separate limits; they must not be combined into an assumed lift. Check the required load at its intended working point. If that point is unclear, obtain a site drawing and clarification before selecting a machine.
3. Treat the attachment as part of the machine
Forks, buckets and other attachments change the handling arrangement. Verify compatibility, attachment mass, load centre, coupling and any hydraulic or electrical requirements. A common-looking interface does not establish approval. Keep the attachment specification and applicable capacity information with the quotation so the sales description and the delivered combination remain consistent.
4. Check access and operating conditions
Compare transport and working dimensions with gates, turning areas and placement positions. Establish ground support, gradients, operating temperature and the site environment through the appropriate project personnel. For Eastern European or South American buyers, use the actual country and worksite conditions rather than assuming a single regional climate, engine specification or documentation requirement.
5. Separate stock specifications from customer options
A dealer range needs repeatable descriptions. Record the engine, tyres, attachment, coupling, hydraulic functions, cab and included documents for each proposed stock configuration. Identify customer options separately and agree how component changes will be approved. This creates a firmer basis for repeat quotations and parts identification without assuming all units under one model name are identical.
6. Compare the delivered offer and handover requirements
Compare equipment, attachment, packing, shipment basis, manuals and parts information on the same scope. Confirm warranty responsibilities and the process for a technical or parts enquiry. Where local preparation or customer familiarisation is required, identify who will provide it. Discuss your intended configuration with IDASION before treating a catalogue maximum as a sales commitment.
Conventional forklift or telehandler?
| Decision | Mast-type forklift | Telehandler |
|---|---|---|
| Main task to assess | Pickup, travel and stacking along a defined route | Load placement involving variable height and forward reach |
| Capacity evidence | Capacity information for the mast, load centre and attachment | Applicable chart for the machine, attachment and setup |
| Site planning | Aisles, surfaces, doors and stacking positions | Access, support conditions and the full placement envelope |
Compare actual configurations. Neither machine category is automatically suitable for every task shown.
Related buying resources
- Telehandler Forklift
- Forklift
- Diesel Forklift
- Electric Forklift
- Machinery Sourcing for Dealers: Verify the Supply Behind the Price
- Global Distributors
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