Having a versatile and reliable telehandler is essential to growing your agribus

Posted by Cynthia Madison on November 2nd, 2021

A farmer can complete their tasks faster by using the right equipment. Modern farms benefit from a wide range of equipment options, such as tractors, aimed at small-scale homesteaders and industrial-size farming. One of the most commonly used machines is the telehandler (or telescopic handler). It’s an essential piece of equipment that integrates the lifting capacity of a hydraulic forklift system with the reach and elevation of a crane. It’s basically a maneuverable hybrid that makes life so much easier. 

If you don’t know what to do anymore to get work done faster, you might want to take into account the possibility of investing in a telehandler. You can easily carry heavy loads from one place to another. The telehandler gets the job done with speed and efficiency. Given the dynamic farming culture, you can no longer count on the old tractor. The telehandler has been around for decades, but it’s only recently that people have realized its true potential. If you’re still not convinced that it’s a good idea to work with a telehandler, keep on reading. 

Can a telehandler prove to be resourceful in modern-day farming? 

A telehandler reinforces versatility in an agricultural operation 

In agriculture, machinery relies on versatility. A telehandler is unique in many ways. Not only is the piece of equipment versatile but also adaptable. If your project relates to seed fodder, pesticides, or multipurpose farming, you’ll need a telehandler. With such a gizmo, you can move loads of feed throughout tight spaces, unload pallets, and even stack bales of hay. Whether or not you get a telehandler for one job only, the diverse capabilities of the machine add to its versatility. Many argue that a telehandler is better than a forklift because it can turn in very tight spots. Unlike a forklift, a telehandler allows for stock management solutions.  

The cost savings you can find in owning one of these machines are great 

Agriculture brings about difficult issues because, in spite of the fact that it’s a vast industry, it’s organized in small production units. The outcome is that much of the work on the farm has to be done for short periods. It’s necessary to reduce costs as much as possible. The tractor is generally the source of power, yet, as opposed to other pieces of equipment, investment is high and radical changes in design are of the essence. The fact of the matter is that you’re better off buying a telehandler. 

If you can’t afford the cost of this investment, don’t worry because you can hire a telehandler for long periods of time. Once you have decided that this is the best option for your agribusiness, reach out to a service provider such as UK Forks. The company will make sure that the equipment is in perfect shape. Consider the job the machine will do. In other words, determine at what height you want to lift material and what weight that material will have. Equally important is to inquire about the attachments and additions the telehandler comes with. 

A telehandler is made to last 

It goes without saying that not all farm machinery is durable and built to last. A telehandler is different. How so? The average telehandler lasts about 10,000 hours, but it slightly depends on the manufacturer. Look into collections from the highest quality brands because they’re made to withstand wear and tear. You’ll be able to use the piece of machinery for years to come. Attention needs to be paid to the fact that telehandlers have a planned maintenance schedule so that they operate more efficiently and last longer. If your telehandler isn’t well-maintained, you’ll be forced with costly repairs. 

Telehandlers should be driven only by authorized, trained, and competent people 

As with all lifting equipment, there are some risks associated with working with telehandlers. The versatility that makes them so useful gives rise to unsafe use. Therefore, serious accidents can take place, which can lead to tremendous costs as far as human suffering is concerned. Let’s not even talk about the impact on the agricultural business. The point is that anyone that wishes to operate a telehandler needs adequate training. Training is a legal requirement, so it’s imperative to have a certificate showing that you’ve attended a recognized training course. 

In what follows, we’ll summarize some of the hazards associated with machine operation. 

• Electrocution

• Overturning

• Unsecured loads falling

• Attachments not secured properly

• Unintended movement of the telehandler

You must be trained and competent regarding the telehandler hazards and precautions. It’s better to be safe than sorry. 

Tips that will improve safety when working with a telehandler 

As you figure out how to do more with the telehandler on the farm, you should become familiar with these simple, safe operating tips to minimize the risk of incidents and keep working productively, day after day. 

Always inspect the telehandler before use

It’s recommended to carry out a pre-operation inspection to make sure that the telehandler is in good condition. If something is seemingly wrong with the machine or you discover a malfunction, make sure it’s serviced right away. You can start working only if the machine is functioning properly. Taking the time to conduct the pre-operation inspection can help avoid engine and drive-shaft failure, not to mention unnecessary costs and repairs. 

Don’t operate without the proper load capacity chart

You should always operate the telehandler with the proper load capacity chart if you want to attain the desired results in a timely and safe manner. It’s up to you to make sure each unit is equipped with a load capacity chart for the attachment that is currently used. They should be clearly visible when the telehandler is set in the normal operating position. 

Pay close attention when driving 

Finally yet importantly, don’t get distracted when driving. The view of the route should be perfect. If you’re not able to see more than two meters beyond your load, you need to drive backward. Demand assistance if you have to drive forward. Special attention should be paid when driving a telehandler on uneven surfaces.