KION North America

Steps to an Energy-Efficient Warehouse

Having trouble trying to figure out ways to reduce your overall warehouse costs? We have some easy steps you can take! From recycling, lighting, to different types of forklifts, we have you covered. While lowering costs with these steps, you will also be making a positive impact on the environment.

Motion Activated/Solar Lighting
If you want to decrease your electricity usage, we recommend motion activated and solar-powered lighting. With motion activated lighting, the lights will come on only when the lights sensor motion and will turn off after a few minutes once the employee leaves the area. With solar lighting, you can easily eradicate electric lighting. Both types of lighting are great ways to reduce your costs and help the environment!

Recycle
A full warehouse also means you have tons of boxes! One of the easiest ways to save money, and the planet, is by using cardboard shredders. This a simple way to change your cardboard scrap into recyclable packing which can later be used as packaging material for any shipments you need to send off. Another step you can take when it comes to recycling is reusing your bubble wrap. The bubble wrap you receive from shipments can be saved to act as a cushion in the future for products that you’ll need to ship off to customers.

Air Conditioning
Air conditioning can be very expensive, especially when you need to cool down an entire warehouse, for this reason, many warehouses aren’t cooled. To keep your employees working at a comfortable temperature, we recommend looking into evaporate cooling. Evaporate cooling doesn’t require much power and can reduce the temperature to more than 10 degrees. This is a popular and inexpensive way to keep your warehouse cool.

Electric VS Propane Forklifts
Forklifts are extremely vital and can be found in most warehouses. With electric forklifts, you won’t have any exhaust fumes, which enhances air quality and saves you money. Propane forklifts use about $20 worth of propane. If you cut out propane forklifts and switch to electric forklifts, you will be saving about $4,000 annually. This also helps improve conditions in your warehouse and the environment.

Our hope is to reduce your costs and contribute to saving the environment with these four steps. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us via our website or by calling us at 843-875-8000.

How Planned Maintenance Saves You Money

To avoid expensive and unexpected repairs, you’ll want to plan maintenance. It will cost you more to service your forklift than to preserve the equipment properly. We want you to take the appropriate steps in caring for your forklifts. Hopefully, these three simple tips can help you schedule your maintenance successfully beforehand to prevent spending more than you need to.

Investment
You will want to protect your investment, which is your forklift. The first step is to make sure that you check your forklift periodically, no matter what type of forklift you own. Regular maintenance checks can increase the lifespan of your forklift. These are expensive pieces of machinery, proper care is crucial.

Never Pay Twice
You should never pay twice for service. Many owners of forklifts who don’t sign up for planned maintenance get charged anyway. Messing up payment is an easy error to avoid, by asking the service you take your forklift to if they could call you ahead of your appointment to double check if you will be using the service.

Planning
When you plan an appointment for maintenance, you won’t have to worry about any breakdowns or remembering to arrange to get service done. This keeps your forklift running and ensures the safety of both the operator and the forklift. Keep reminders on hand of when to create maintenance appointments.

With planned maintenance, this will minimize downtime, enhance productivity, expand the forklift’s lifespan and reduce costs. If you have any questions or want to know more about owning a forklift, contact us via our website or by calling us at 843-875-8000. We hope to hear from you soon!

How to Prevent Accidents When Using a Pallet Truck

The most important thing in any work site is the safety of all employees. Many accidents can occur while actively working on loading docks, so it’s important to take the necessary steps in safety. The following will help to prevent accidents when using a pallet truck.

Loading Dock and Lorry
When you begin working with the pallet truck, you must lessen the variance between the loading dock and the floor of the warehouse. This way the pallet truck can move efficiently in and out of the lorry, which decreases the chances of an accident transpiring. It is never a bad idea to invest in a good dock leveler as well.

The Use of Traffic Lights
These traffic lights are just like the traffic lights we see on regular roads, they are used to avoid a collision. You can install them on both the interior and exterior of a warehouse. Like a car, the pallet truck has the authorization to enter the lorry at a green light only.

Suspended Castor or Drive Wheels
You will want to look into suspended castors or drive wheels for your pallet truck. These types of wheels will take in shocks and vibrations. However, the suspended castors give the truck much more solidity, this is a good safety characteristic to have.

Brakes
While space is more restricted on the dock, this makes it more important that a pallet truck is able to maneuver well and also brake quickly. The power pallet truck, for example, is able to slow down much quicker and is easier to brake on command. You’ll want to make sure that your brakes are properly working before operating a pallet truck.

We hope you find this useful and if you have any questions or regards to the operation of a pallet truck or would like to find out more, you can reach us through our website or call us at 843-875-8000.

Importance of Watering a Forklift Battery

When it comes to handling the maintenance of your forklift, you’ll want to be certain that you are taking the proper measures to ensure that your forklift remains in good shape for your use. One of the key components to the forklift is its battery. Maintaining the battery is a responsibility you’ll want to prioritize, more specifically, watering the battery. The following points will help boost the battery’s performance.

Why, When, How
You water a battery because you don’t want your battery to burn out. If batteries aren’t watered down, then this will decrease the lifespan and safety of the battery. You’ll want to water the battery before a work shift. When watering the battery, you’ll want to water each cell within the battery until it is at the maximum height of the lead-acid plates. Try not to over water the battery because it will cause leaks. With that being said, don’t underwater either. If the battery is under watered, it will cause the battery to dry-out, which then requires downtime and extra upkeep.

Clean Distilled Water
We recommend that you use clean distilled water that is between 5-7 on a PH scale. The battery should always be clean and unadulterated. If you use water that is contaminated with other substances, it can cause battery damage, which leads to having to spend a fortune to either repair the battery or purchase an entirely new battery.

Battery Plates
It is suggested that you keep the forklift battery plates below the water-line when you are charging. This is to assure that your battery doesn’t overheat and also doesn’t dry out. If the battery overheats or dries out, this makes it inoperable or unsuitable for your forklift. If the plates go above the water line, then add water to a quarter of an inch aloft the plates, and try not to go over that.

We hope you have rendered this useful to understand the significance of watering your battery and the consequences that will occur if you don’t do it accurately. If you have any questions or regard, please contact us either through our website or by calling us at 843-875-8000.

Product Spotlight: Baoli KBD40/KBD50

The Baoli Series 6012 is the latest addition to KION North America’s Baoli product line. With the introduction of this series, KION North America offers Baoli forklifts with load capacities ranging from 3,500 lbs., all the way up to 10,000 lbs. to provide you with a range of models to get the job done.

Offered in two different models, KBD40 and KBD50, the Baoli Series 6012 is a diesel, four-wheel truck equipped with single or dual SE or pneumatic drive tires, making it suitable for a variety of environments. KBD40 lift capacity is 8,000 lbs. KBD50 lift capacity is 10,000 lbs. Both models have excellent residual capacity at height.

Performance and Value

The Baoli KBD40/KBD50 is an extremely versatile truck that can operate outdoors even in inclement weather with an optional, fully-enclosed and heated cabin. This truck is a perfect match if you need for a sturdy, quality forklift that delivers great value.

Built using proven components, the performance of these trucks is outstanding. The powerful Kohler Tier 4 turbodiesel engine delivers 74 HP and plenty of torque to more easily handle heavy loads. With Kohler’s advanced, common rail direct injection system and Electronic Control Unit (ECU) with fuel mapping, these trucks are very fuel efficient. You can also expect lower maintenance costs and less downtime, with no requirement for a Diesel Particulate (DPF) or Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF).

Since no two operations are the same, the Baoli KBD40/KBD50 models offer a multitude of options to meet your operation’s specific needs. Some of these include 4th function hydraulics for special attachments, multiple mast options, and tapered and polished forks.

Reliability

As with any piece of equipment, routine maintenance is crucial to maximizing efficiency and performance. To help you get the most out of your investment, performing operator checks and doing routine maintenance on this truck has never been easier. The hood opens to a nearly 90-degree angle allowing the operator to easily access the engine compartment. Removable floor plates provide access to a majority of truck components. Taking reliability a step further the KBD40 and KBD50 are DEF and DPF free. They do not use diesel exhaust fluid or have a diesel particulate filter that requires downtime for regeneration and periodic service. This saves your business time and money, and helps keep your operation running smoothly.

Even though the KBD40/KBD50 trucks have outstanding quality and reliability, it never hurts to have a good warranty you can rely on. All Baoli forklifts are backed by KION North America’s standard 2-year warranty which covers standard equipment for the first year and unlimited hours, in addition to standard powertrain coverage for two years or 4,000 hours. An optional extended warranty for one additional year or 2,000 hours can also be purchased.

Baoli brand equipment is fully integrated into KION North America’s supply chain and service system. The company’s South Carolina-based warehouse is stocked with a variety of spare parts. Sales and support for the KBD40/50 is provided by a network of authorized dealers throughout the United States.

Comfort

The Baoli KBD40/KBD50 is equipped with a host of standard comfort features at no extra cost including a tilting, adjustable steering column and a comfort suspension seat with a high-visibility orange seat belt. A roomy, cushioned operator compartment makes these trucks comfortable for any size operator.

Confidence

These trucks are not just comfortable. They also offer standard operator assist features like forward-facing twin LED spotlights, dual external mirrors, and separate brake and inching pedals. Treaded entry steps, an overhead guard mounted entry grab bar, and a handgrip built into the seat’s side bolster, give the operator three-point stability when getting on and off the forklift. The seat side bolsters help keep the operator secure when operating the truck.

The standard, amber warning light and backup alarm help create a more confident workplace for everyone.

If you are looking for a quality counterbalanced forklift with the performance, value, reliability and operator confidence your workplace needs, look no further than the Baoli KBD40/KBD 50. For more information or to request a demo contact your authorized local dealer today.

Product Spotlight: Linde Series 388

The Linde Series 388 is exactly what customers have come to expect from Linde products. This truck raises the standard for comfort, efficiency, productivity and reliability. Offered in seven different models, the Linde 388 has a lift capacity ranging from 7,500 to 11,000 lbs. This electric truck can fit well in a multitude of applications, including general warehousing, manufacturing and the beverage industry. The Linde Series 388 is an ideal truck to replace engine powered forklifts, even in outdoor applications.

Operator Comfort
The ergonomics on the Linde 388 are phenomenal. Linde engineers painstakingly developed the truck around the operator to help ensure the most stress-free environment possible. The Linde 388 features a spacious operator compartment with generous foot room and a cushioned floating cab specifically designed for low fatigue operation. Along with the ergonomic layout of all controls and adjustability of armrest and seat, Linde trucks provide the best possible operating environment for the operator.

Operator Confidence
At the end of the day, operator confidence plays a large roll in a safer and more productive workplace. A key element of operator confidence is feeling in control of the vehicle and comfortable with its capability. Visibility of the load through the mast is key in increasing this confidence for not only the truck operator, but those working around the truck. This increased visibility is achieved by nesting the mast rails to hide one of them completely, which results in a much narrower profile and significantly wider field of vision, through and around the mast. The truck also has standard features including two spotlights, an overhead guard and an emergency power cut-off.

Productivity
Becoming more productive is always the end goal of every workplace. Depending on your working environment, the 388 can help with that. This truck features the Linde drive axle, which is an assembly that includes twin drive motors, reduction gears, brake system and power module. This system eliminates two energy wasting components, dragging differentials and long power supply cables, which are the major sources of excessive energy consumption. Linde has also made energy visible, meaning the Linde electric trucks have a unique energy management system, including an advanced battery state of charge indicator. This measures the current and available voltage to provide a continuous update of the battery’s overall condition.

Reliability
Reliability and durability are two features that Linde is known for. All components and assemblies are tested to meet rigorous longevity standards. All machines require maintenance, but the Linde series 388 has maintenance intervals of 1000 hours. This truck has many design features that allow for this high maintenance interval. Some of these design features include automatic deceleration, maintenance-free brake system and electronic diagnostics. This truck is also equipped with an AC system for all motors which operates without brushes and is completely sealed extending component life.

If you are looking for a quality electric forklift that you can rely on without breaking the bank, the Linde 388 could be a great fit for your operation. If you think there are other options that would benefit your workplace, please see a list of options on our website or for more information, please contact your authorized local dealer today.

Difference Between Pneumatic and Cushion Tire Forklifts

A big decision is being made when buying a forklift. It is an expensive and a substantial piece of machinery to own and maintain. You’ll want to be sure that you are buying a forklift that can match your environment and can handle the amount of lifting you’ll need. Different forklifts require different tires, with doing proper research beforehand to ensure the tires are appropriate for your work setting. It is imperative to select the right kind of tires because it will affect the overall handling and welfare of the forklift. Here are the differences between pneumatic and cushion tire forklifts.

Pneumatic Tires
Pneumatic tires are typically used for outdoor operations and are able to grip uneven and rough terrain. There are two different types of pneumatic tires, solid pneumatics and, air pneumatics. Solid pneumatic tires are made solely out of rubber and are additionally more resistant to puncture, while air pneumatics are air-filled. Pneumatic tires are more commonly seen on construction sites and other similar establishments. Brand new pneumatic tires can range from $20,000 to $25,000, because of this, used pneumatic tires can sell rapidly.

Cushion Tires
Cushion tires are created by smooth, solid rubber. These types of tires are also much cheaper to manufacture and are essentially very straightforward when it comes to prolonging them. However, these tires do not get a similar level of traction as pneumatic tires do. Cushion tires are generally best for flat and smooth surfaces and are more ideal for indoor warehouse spaces rather than outdoor settings, and can regularly be seen being used on loading docks. They can’t withstand as much weight as pneumatic tires can, but can function in smaller capacities.

Now that we have explained the difference more clearly, between cushion and pneumatic tires, you’ll need to decide which is best for you. Think about how your forklift will be used, the amount of room you have and the type of setting you are in. Take into consideration that your work environment will play a heavy role in making the ultimate decision between choosing one of the two tires. Both cushion and pneumatic tire forklifts can be acquired in any load volume, from less than 2,000 pounds to more than 200,000 pounds.

If you are still having trouble deciding, we are more than happy to give you our input and opinions. At KION North America, we understand the importance of choosing the best tire for your forklift. Please contact us if you have any further questions at 843-875-8000.

Forklift Battery Do’s & Don’ts

There are simple steps one should take when maintaining proper care of a forklift, one of those steps is making sure you always have a functioning battery. If you keep up with the maintenance that is required for your battery, you can extend the battery life. This helps to avoid investing too much revenue into an unnecessary amount of batteries. Here is what you should and shouldn’t do when it comes to forklift batteries.

Charging The Battery
You always want to ensure that your battery stays above 30% charge. Your forklift battery will hit a ‘red-zone’ once it reaches 20%, you should never fall below that line. If you continue to use the battery consistently after you descend past the 20% mark you will decrease the battery’s overall lifespan.

Keep At Normal Temperature
It’s best to steer clear from exposing forklift batteries to extreme heat. This can destruct the performance of the battery. If you know that you need to use the forklift in exceptionally hot temperatures, you will need to purchase certain batteries created for those specific weather situations.

Regular Cleaning
Batteries should be cleaned every month, this prevents physical damage to the battery. When cleaning, you should use warm water so it can break down chemical build up.

Issues That May Occur
Every once in a while, you might find yourself running into an issue with your battery. For example, if a battery were to overflow, you should rinse the battery with water straight away. Another problem that might arise is battery smoke. When this happens, remain calm and power it off promptly.

Don’t Pick It Up
Forklift batteries are very heavy. We do not recommend anyone pick them up with their hands. Batteries can weigh up to 3,000 lbs and should be transported with a pallet jack.

Protective Gear
When handling a forklift battery, make sure you are wearing appropriate gear. The batteries have sulfuric acid and this specific chemical can and will burn you. You should remove all jewelry before charging or handling any battery.

We hope you have found this useful and if you have any questions regarding your forklift battery, please don’t hesitate to contact us today.

Linde at Work: SNS Worldwide

SNS Worldwide is a second-generation, family-owned and operated warehousing and transportation company. The company offers global transportation, truck loads, LTL, express air and expedited team service, in addition to superior warehousing, drop shipping, logistical planning and complete fulfillment services.

Located in Linden, New Jersey, SNS is centrally located within minutes of all major ports, airports and New York bridges and tunnel crossings. To help keep their operation running smoothly and efficiently, they rely on Linde Series 391—internal combustion counterbalanced forklifts with pneumatic tires.

“I am a working owner of a family business and I have driven all types of fork trucks throughout my 34-year career,” said John Connelly, president of SNS Worldwide. “These are the best built forklifts on the market.”

Last summer, SNS experienced a surge in business that resulted in the need for an additional lift truck to keep up with the pace. Connelly contacted their sales representative from Liftec—an authorized Linde dealer in their area.

Liftec had a Linde forklift available with about 8,000 operating hours on it—a brand Connelly said he had never used before.

“After the first day of driving it for 9 hours straight, I realized I wasn’t really as tired as I should have been compared to if I were driving my other branded forklifts which have 50% less hours on them,” he said.

By the end of the first week, Connelly was so impressed with the quality, comfort and ease-of-use that the company decided to invest in two new Linde forklifts as permanent additions to their fleet.

“Now, my staff fights over them,” he said. “As a business owner, it’s very comforting to know that your employees are excited to be out on the floor operating a quality piece of equipment.”

From the owner side, he added that by investing in Linde forklifts it’s one less thing off his plate to be concerned with since he knows the equipment will perform every day.

“Like with most things, you get what you pay for,” said Connelly. “Superior dependability comes at cost, but that cost is evaporated when you have no downtime.”

Has your company benefited from using a Linde (or Baoli) forklift? We’d love to hear about it. Submit your photos of our trucks at work to marketing.na(at)kiongroup.com

Tips for Improving Loading Dock Safety

There are always precautions one must take in ensuring a safe environment for workers, a big standard that should be taken seriously is loading dock safety. Here we have listed some tips to make sure that the proper measures are taken to keep loading dock safety a top priority!

Appropriate Lighting
There should be a sufficient amount of light, both in and out, of the dock area at all times. This helps in protecting workers from getting into accidents with machinery. Lighting assists in illuminating any hazards that might not be evident during evening hours. However with that being said, one should always be constantly aware of their surroundings in this type of work setting.

Add Protection
There are certain additions that should be provided such as bumpers, mirrors and chocks. Bumpers should be placed at the end of loading dock piles, so if a vehicle or piece of machinery were to accidentally hit the pole the damage would be reduced. Mirrors should be set accordingly on the work site to give drivers the ability to see any perils that might be in their blind spot. Lastly, chocks must be accessible for drivers trying to park vehicles on site.

Training and Certification
To operate a forklift cautiously needs correct training and prior experience.
Forklifts aren’t toys and shouldn’t be treated as such, they should be handled maturely and accordingly. This type of equipment should also be driven at a slow and vigilant speed.
Accidents can be easily avoided if the driver is fully attentive and aware at all times. Operators should also closely inspect loads before and after transferring them. If not checked beforehand, a casualty is more likely to occur.

A Clean Work Site
Everything should be properly stowed or located in the a designated area when not being used. Also having markings as a clear-cut indicator of where one should and shouldn’t walk to or go when work is in progress.

Service/Repairs
Docks and machinery should be inspected regularly. If something were to shift or if your dock were to sag while you are operating a vehicle it could cause a major accident on site. By being proactive about maintenance beforehand, these types of problems shouldn’t occur.

These are simple and useful tips for creating a safe work environment. If you ever have any questions or regards to improving dock loading safety, please feel free to contact us.