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Forklift selection in South Africa must account for the operating environment, the load type and the floor surface. Electric forklifts dominate in food, pharmaceutical, retail distribution and cold storage environments where emissions and noise control are mandatory. Diesel forklifts are the standard choice for outdoor yards, construction and industrial operations where heavier loads, higher travel speeds and longer shifts are required. Rough terrain forklifts — with pneumatic tyres and four-wheel drive — handle unpaved, muddy or sandy surfaces that defeat standard forklifts.
Lift capacity at load centre is the correct way to specify a forklift — not just the headline capacity. A 3-tonne forklift at 500 mm load centre can only lift 2.5 tonnes at 600 mm load centre because the load moment arm increases. Always specify the actual load dimensions and weight when selecting a forklift to ensure the machine is correctly rated for your application.
MCM Group supplies diesel, electric and rough terrain forklifts with full local warranty, parts supply and after-sales service from branches in Cape Town, George, Gauteng and Bloemfontein. Finance options including operating lease and instalment sale are available through MCM Group's approved partners.