Forklifts and their operators as support for logistic processes

Forklifts are functional devices that have displaced some of the manual transport work from logistics centers. The transport of cargo with the use of this equipment is not only more convenient for the employees themselves, but also significantly speeds up and increases the efficiency of processes in the area of logistics. Most of the warehouses and production halls are equipped with forklifts. What you need to know about them if you want to get hold of UDT qualificationsto become an operator of this type of equipment? 

Some facts about forklifts 

A forklift is a type of industrial truck. Its characteristic feature is having two "teeth" at the front of the vehicle, which are popularly referred to as forks. This element of the forklift truck is controllable and its range of motion usually includes an upright position. The movement of the forks is based on a mechanism called a hydraulic system. The capacity of a given device depends, among others, on on its weight and size. The load lifted with a forklift can be manipulated, e.g. tilted. Forklifts can be powered by: electricity, gas (liquid or natural) or diesel. A characteristic feature of industrial trucks in this category is their above-average torsion, i.e. based on a very wide turning angle and a short turning radius. This feature makes it possible to use forklifts even in very confined spaces. 

Overview of popular forklifts 

One of the most popular forms of forklifts are industrial trucks. These are wheeled, motor-driven vehicles. They can lift loads weighing up to several or several dozen tons. Another form is reach stackers. They allow you to place cargo on higher available storage spaces, i.e. racks. They often appear in a side version, the name of which comes from the position of the forklift operator in relation to the direction of travel. It is worth mentioning that there are trucks available on the market that can lift the operator and the load. In addition, forklifts can be characterized by the so-called variable reach - it is e.g. telescopic loaders. They are equipped with a telescopic boom which, as the length increases, allows access to higher heights / gaining a wider reach. 

Forklifts and their use in the logistics chain 

When it comes to forklifts, they are widely used throughout the logistics chain, especially in the area related to cargo transportation. For example, these can be unloading or storage operations, and production operations, where materials or finished products have to be moved. Forklifts are used in industrial plants (e.g. factories), warehouses and logistics centers. They can often be found in ports, airports or wholesalers. Depending on the specifics of a given place of use of forklifts, they can be used inside or outside. Due to the external use, these devices are exposed to various weather conditions, and sometimes also work in conditions of dubious quality of the surface.  

Advantages of using a forklift in broadly understood logistics 

Logistics management is about optimizing the flow of products, goods and materials so as to ensure the effectiveness and efficiency of processes. On the other hand, handling activities in the area of cargo handling are mentioned among the tasks set for the logistics itself. In the light of the above-mentioned facts, it is important that all activities related to cargo handling are effective and efficient. The proper performance of these activities is achieved, among others, by forklift. It has a number of advantages, including: 

• efficiency - shortening the time of carrying out transport works and the possibility of carrying out a larger volume of these works, 
• profitability - forklifts allow you to significantly save time and costs, resulting from alternative methods of cargo transfer, 
• relatively low costs of use / operation, 
• a wide market offer of this type of devices - there are those that are dedicated to specific tasks, spaces or a given type of cargo, 
• simplicity of operation / control, 
• great ergonomics - the available space within the range of the device is used to the maximum, 
• precision - when it comes to the proper distribution of the load. 

Forklifts - development prospects 

To discuss the future of forklifts, let's look at the development of these vehicles over the course of their history, which goes back to the 1920s and the 20th century. The First and Second World Wars forced the entrepreneurs of that time to automate processes in manufacturing plants (short-distance transport and cargo handling). It was necessary due to the necessity to replace the missing human factor (participation of men in warfare). Since then, while the technology has changed, the basic idea of using forklift devices has survived. In the course of modernization, efforts were made to optimize their size and increase power, weight and lifting capacity. It has also become important to expand the range of the device when handling cargo. It does not change the fact that today forklifts are doing as well as never before. They are widely used in various industries. It is worth mentioning here that the key factor determining the possible direction of the development of forklift technology is their progressive automation and robotization. 

Who is a forklift operator? 

A forklift operator is a person who is 18 years of age, has the appropriate UDT qualifications and his employer has authorized him to drive this type of device. In broadly understood logistics, the duties of forklift truck operators may include: 

• loading and unloading of finished materials / products, 
• picking up and delivering cargo to various parts of the facility, e.g. warehouse or factory, 
• optimization of lifting capacity and mileage based on safety standards, 
• securely securing the load on a forklift, 
• control of the technical condition of the device, plans for cleaning, maintenance and repairs, 
• other logistic activities, for example, keeping stock. 

Forklifts: get UDT qualifications 

Today, when logistics is experiencing its dynamic development, it is worth considering the career of a forklift operator. Despite the continuous transformations of the labor market structure, forklift operators are still eagerly sought by potential employers. Moreover, the salaries of people employed in this position are constantly increasing. This creates favorable conditions for future employees to achieve stability in life and professional development. So, if you are interested in obtaining a forklift operator certificate, we invite you to the OSO training offer (Operator Training Center). we offer courses and training in the field of forklifts incl. in the field of industrial trucks and telescopic loaders. With us you will gain the required skills and plan your success, not only during the exam!