Telehandlers are arguably one of the most useful tools one can invest in, especially if you own a business. Compared to their more popular cousins, the forklifts, telehandlers are seen as a more versatile variety of equipment that has several applications benefiting a wide variety of industries.
So, if you are interested in finding out more about telehandlers or if you’re looking for the benefits of using telescopic handlers, then you’re in the right place.
But before we begin, let’s first talk about what telehandlers are.
What is a telehandler?
Telehandlers go by many names like teleporter, reach forklift, or zoom boom. But essentially, the name was derived from the term “telescopic handler,” a machine resembling a hybrid between a forklift and a crane.
On that note, this equipment does offer the benefit of both allowing owners and operators to go beyond the typical task one can accomplish using only either a forklift or a crane.
Many businesses use these tools to help them move loads to and from, as well as lift individuals in areas that would otherwise be difficult to climb.
Benefits of using a telehandler
1. Versatility
Obviously, being versatile is one of its strongest suits. The key to its versatility is its telescopic boom. Not only does it move up and down but it can also be used in conjunction with a wide range of attachments.
Here are a few.
- Forklift carriages: A type of attachment that allows the machine to perform tasks specific to forklifts.
- Crane jibs: This attachment transforms a telehandler into a modified crane, typically with a hook at the end. Hence, a crane jib can be used to pick up loads through a lifting eye or by using slings.
- Scoop and bucket attachments: These types of attachments can be used to scoop up items or loose materials for transport which include, but are not limited to; sand and small stones.
- Work cage platform: A work cage platform can transform a telehandler into a moveable platform allowing individuals to work safely and securely on high areas.
While it’s true that you will have to invest in these attachments to maximize the use of your telehandler, doing so allows you to unlock the full potential of your equipment.
Instead of investing in additional machinery, all you need to do is invest in the right attachment.
2. On and off-road capabilities
Another benefit of using this equipment is that it can operate both on paved concrete and on rough roads. That said, it has seen wide use in both industrial and agricultural sectors where it does various tasks from lifting earth, hay, and animal waste, to carrying heavy construction materials and skilled professionals working on elevated areas.
It’s only common to see telehandlers fitted with heavy-duty and robust tyres that can easily support the weight of both the machine and of the material it’s carrying. The tyres are specifically designed for hauling heavy loads and to provide a significant amount of traction so that the telehandler won’t slide when performing its tasks.
Compared to a forklift that can only be used inside a warehouse or a crane that needs to be fitted to a strong and stable platform, the telehandler makes for a highly capable machine that can be used on a wide variety of terrains.
3. Improved safety
Many entrepreneurs and business owners choose to use telehandlers because of their potential of improving job safety.
The hydraulic booms on a telehandler ensure increased stability when lifting and transporting heavy loads. Its overall dimensional layout also emphasizes a wider base creating a more stable platform for various tasks.
Having said that, telehandlers significantly increase operational safety and can create a better environment for the workers. The chances of them injuring themselves, through unsafe or repetitive lifting, are greatly reduced.
In addition, having trained and licensed operators use and work on these machines also improves overall operational safety.
Conclusion
Through this article, we have discussed some of the most common benefits one can achieve when using a telehandler. Things like versatility, its indoor and outdoor capabilities, as well as increased operational safety, are just some of the advantages of using a telehandler.
The good thing about these types of equipment is that you can buy or lease them.
If you are looking for a place to rent or purchase lifting equipment, you can check out Biondo Rentals. They’re the leading telehandler hire Melbourne offers, so you can trust that you’re getting your money’s worth.
