If you’re looking to lift or move a heavy load in a warehouse or at a construction site, there are two essential machines that are built to do just that. The forklift and the telehandler are both used widely for lifting and moving, but they both have their own advantages and capabilities. As part of the Concord Group, we can proudly offer clients both machines through Concord Access Solutions and Concord Lift Trucks.

How does a forklift work?

A forklift is an industrial vehicle with a forked platform attached at the front. The fork is raised and lowered so that it can be inserted under a cargo to lift or move it. You’ll find forklifts widely used in warehouses, storage facilities and equipment storage yards.

What is a telescopic handler?

A telehandler (also called a reach forklift) is a vehicle with an extendable boom. Various attachments can be added to the end of the boom, so that the handler can be used for various functions.

What are the main differences between a telehandler and a forklift?

Forklifts offer a solution for those wanting to move loads from shelves in a warehouse or to move material around an equipment storage yard. It is a cost-effective solution that’s both compact and quick – perfect for navigating tight aisles in a warehouse or efficiently moving, packing and unpacking material in an equipment yard.

On construction sites and maintenance sites, a telescopic handler may pose as a slightly better option because it offers increased strength and versatility. Here are a few reasons as to why you should choose a telehandler.

Stronger and higher

A telehandler can lift several tons more than a standard forklift, so it is a better option when you need to move or lift heavier loads. Handlers can also lift goods higher than your average forklift.

Movable arm

The telehandler has an extendable arm which can be extended forwards and upwards. You don’t need to move the vehicle back and forward to move a load, you simply manoeuvre the arm.

Easy to manoeuvre

A telehandler will generally have a larger wheelbase than a forklift. They are more capable on uneven surfaces and slippery paths, making them ideal for outdoor sites like construction sites.

Versatile attachments

A telescopic handler has various attachments that can be added to the end of the boom and therefore adds increased versatility. You can use a handler as a mini-crane, or one can attach hooks, scoops and buckets to move various types of loads  such as grains, gravel, logs and awkwardly shaped loads.

On a construction site, attachments like truss booms and jibs can be attached which enables the machine to move steel beams and wood poles or it can be transformed into sheet handler for moving sheets of material. You can even attach a corkscrew-like earth auger attachment to the machine, allowing you to dig into the ground.

One of the main benefits of a telehandler its versatility on site. Instead of hiring four or five different machines, you can simply change attachments according to job requirements. It’s not hard to see why these machines are world-renowned and used on almost every major construction site.

Concord Access Solutions has the answers

If you’re looking to buy or hire a machine, speak to one of our specialists. Our team are trained and skilled to offer the advice you need to make sure you are set up with the right solution for your project requirements.