The story of Japanese forklifts

The story of Japanese forklifts

Forklifts are self-propelled small industrial vehicles that are used to carry heavy loads. They are powered with combustion engines and electric battery. They come with power-operated platforms that are attached to the head of the vehicle. There are different types of forklifts and it’s important to understand them if you plan to by one from a Japanese auto auction. Forklifts are used in various industries and are popularly used in warehouses and other large storing facilities as well as construction sites.

History of forklifts
It was in the middle 19th century and early 20th century when the modern forklift was developed. While the forklift became popular after the World War II, it became prevalent around the world afterwards.

At the beginning of the World War II and II, forklifts were used in order to assist with storing products in warehouses. When the warehouses require forklifts to reach higher shelves, the models were amended accordingly. In the 80’s the forklift design had a drastic change. More focus was being made on the operator’s comfort while ensuring that injuries are minimized and productivity is improved. In the 90’s the focus diverted to the emission standards of the forklift and manufacturers around the world including Japan had to follow certain guidelines.

Main components of a forklift
Truck frame - this is an important part of the machine and it is what keeps all the other components together including the wheels, mast and counterweights.

Power Source - Forklifts run on an internal combustion engine or they are electric powered.

Counterweight – this part of the machine helps to balance the load that is lifted. The counterweight is attached to the rear of the forklift.

Mast – this is the part that helps to lift and push in the loads.

Carriage – Attached to the mast rails, this is the base of the machine that helps to move up and down.

Forklift manufacturers in Japan

Toyota Industries Corporation
The Japanese giant Toyota, design and manufacture forklifts with four main components in mind - operator safety, productivity, comfort and efficiency. Toyota manufactures electric forklifts, internal combustion forklifts, high capacity forklifts and several others. As with their other machinery, Toyota forklifts have created a name as reliable and efficient.

Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks
Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks has been in the industry for over 25 years. The cutting edge technology and world-class material used by Mitsubishi over the years have won the hearts as a reliable and outstanding producer of forklifts.

Komatsu
Komatsu forklifts are another top name in the lift truck manufacturing business in Japan. Komatsu has years of experience and knowhow, which they bring together when producing industrial machinery, vehicles along with the use of latest technology. Komatsu has several forklifts that they market including the battery-powered forklift, engine powered forklifts and HST drive forklifts.

If you are looking invest in a forklift but don’t want to invest in something brand new, then try the Japanese auto auction to get a high quality used forklift.