What type of warehouse are you?
No two warehouses are exactly the same.
A fast-moving logistics operation has very different requirements from a manufacturing facility or a cold store. Yet many businesses continue using equipment that may not be the best fit for their environment.
So, what type of warehouse are you?
The high-volume distributor
If your warehouse is handling large volumes of goods every day, productivity and uptime are everything. Equipment is often in near-constant use, meaning reliability, operator comfort, and energy efficiency can have a significant impact on throughput and running costs. Even small periods of downtime can quickly create bottlenecks and delays across the operation.
Suggested equipment:
EP EFL Series Electric Counterbalance Truck – combines the performance of an IC truck with the lower running costs and reduced maintenance requirements of electric power, making it ideal for busy distribution environments.
The manufacturing facility
Manufacturing environments require a steady flow of materials between production areas, storage locations, and dispatch zones. Equipment needs to be dependable and versatile, often operating both indoors and outdoors throughout the day. Breakdowns or delays can affect not just warehouse productivity but production schedules too.
Suggested equipment:
EP EFL253 Electric Forklift – a robust all-rounder capable of handling demanding applications while offering lower operating costs and reduced emissions.
The cold storage operation
Cold stores present unique challenges. Low temperatures can affect battery performance, operator comfort, and equipment reliability if the wrong truck is selected. Visibility, manoeuvrability, and durability are all critical considerations in these demanding environments.
Suggested equipment:
EP ETV Series Reach Truck – designed to maximise storage density while maintaining performance in temperature-controlled facilities, helping operators work efficiently in narrow aisles and high-racking environments.
The retail distribution centre
Retail and e-commerce warehouses often experience fluctuating demand throughout the year, with seasonal peaks placing additional pressure on fleets and staff. Fast order picking, efficient stock movement, and the ability to adapt quickly are key to maintaining service levels.
Suggested equipment:
EP JX1 Order Picker – designed for efficient picking operations, helping operators work safely and productively when fulfilling large volumes of orders.
The space-conscious warehouse
Not every warehouse has the luxury of space. Narrow aisles, limited storage areas, and increasing stock levels mean businesses often need to do more with less. The right equipment can improve manoeuvrability, increase storage density, and reduce wasted travel time.
Suggested equipment:
EP CQD Series Reach Truck – ideal for narrow aisles and high-level storage, allowing businesses to maximise available space without compromising productivity.
The mixed fleet operation
Many businesses operate a combination of counterbalance trucks, pallet trucks, stackers, and reach trucks. While this flexibility can be beneficial, it can also lead to higher maintenance costs and operational inefficiencies if the fleet has evolved without a clear strategy.
Suggested equipment:
Forklift Fleet Optimisation Review – before investing in additional equipment, a fleet review can help identify underutilised assets, opportunities for consolidation, and potential cost savings.
Which one sounds most like your business?
At Hannamans, we help businesses identify the right equipment, servicing plans, and fleet strategies for their specific operation.
Whether you’re looking to improve efficiency, reduce costs, or prepare for future growth, we’re here to help.
