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Jofson is one of the largest independent suppliers of forklift trucks and materials handling equipment in Birmingham and Manchester. We have been around since 1977 and offer new and used forklifts to companies so that they can hire and buy.

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9 Key Uses for Forklifts – How They Keep Businesses Moving

At Jofson, we know forklifts inside and out. As a leading Mitsubishi forklift provider in Manchester and Birmingham, we help businesses of all sizes keep their operations running smoothly, whether through forklift sales, long-term rentals, or short-term hires. Forklifts are essential in logistics and material handling, making it easier to transport heavy loads and optimising workplace efficiency. But their versatility goes beyond warehouses; forklifts are used in industries ranging from construction to retail, agriculture, and snow ploughing. Below we talk about nine key uses for forklifts and how they help keep businesses moving.

1. Warehousing & Logistics

Forklifts are necessary for day-to-day operations in a warehouse or distribution centre. Whether stacking pallets, moving stock, or unloading shipments, forklifts make inventory management more efficient and safer for your team. With various models available, from high-reach forklifts to compact, manoeuvrable trucks, a Mitsubishi forklift suits every warehouse need. Of course, proper training is essential to ensure safe and efficient forklift operation. Whilst using forklifts in your warehouse is the major use of forklifts, it is just one of a few key uses for forklifts. 

2. Construction Sites

Construction projects require heavy lifting, and forklifts help move materials like bricks, beams, and cement bags to higher floors without putting workers at risk. At Jofson, we supply formidable, all-terrain Mitsubishi forklifts designed for rugged environments. These forklifts are perfect for handling heavy loads on-site while keeping productivity high and manual labour minimal.

3. Ports & Dockyards

Ports and dockyards depend on efficient cargo handling, and forklifts play a key role in loading and unloading ships. From moving pallets of goods to lifting full-sized shipping containers, forklifts ensure smooth operations in these fast-paced environments. We offer heavy-duty forklifts for large loads and compact models for efficiently moving smaller cargo.

4. Retail & E-commerce

With the rise of online shopping, retail businesses require reliable warehouse solutions to manage their growing stock. Forklifts help unload deliveries, organise inventory, and restock shelves quickly and safely. Retail warehouses are often busy with people working nearby, so operator training is crucial for safe forklift usage. Our Mitsubishi forklifts offer excellent visibility and control, making them ideal for retail logistics.

5. Recycling & Waste Management

Recycling plants process tons of material daily, and forklifts are crucial for efficiently sorting and transporting waste. They help move large quantities of recyclable materials, ensuring they are processed correctly and loaded onto trucks for dispatch. With the right attachments, forklifts can handle everything from bales of compressed plastic to scrap metal, making waste management more efficient and eco-friendly.

6. Agriculture & Farming

In the agricultural sector, forklifts simplify the transportation of fertiliser, produce, hay bales, and feed, whether on farms, at grain storage facilities, or in agrarian supply warehouses. We provide robust Mitsubishi rough-terrain forklifts for farm environments with uneven terrain. These forklifts can handle heavy loads while ensuring smooth and stable operation.

7. Manufacturing & Production

Manufacturing plants rely on forklifts to move raw materials, machine parts, and finished products between storage areas and production lines. Efficient material handling keeps assembly lines running smoothly and minimises downtime. At Jofson, we supply forklifts designed to enhance efficiency and reduce manual handling risks in manufacturing environments, helping businesses meet their production targets quickly.

8. Logging & Timber Industry

In the logging industry, forklifts, especially log stackers, can help transport heavy logs safely and efficiently. These machines reduce the need for manual labour and ensure logs are securely loaded onto trucks or sawmills. Our selection of Mitsubishi forklifts includes models with specialist attachments, ensuring they can handle even the most challenging timber applications.

9. Snow Ploughing

In regions that experience heavy snowfall, forklifts equipped with snow plough attachments help clear roads, car parks, and industrial sites. This keeps businesses running, even in extreme weather conditions. With the proper modifications, a Mitsubishi forklift can double as a cost-effective snow-clearing solution, making it a valuable year-round asset.

Need a Forklift for Your Business?

At Jofson, we provide Mitsubishi forklifts for sale and hire in Manchester, Birmingham, and beyond. Whether you need a short-term rental or a long-term forklift solution, we’ll help you find the right truck for the job.

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Contact Jofson today to discuss your forklift needs! Or share this article on 9 key uses for forklifts in all industries over the United Kingdom.