Operating a cold storage forklift involves a whole new set of challenges that require careful attention and planning in order to avoid disaster—either financially or physically. It can be difficult to maintain material handling efficiency under normal conditions, and it becomes even more so when operating in cold weather or cold storage conditions. Cold room forklift maintenance is critical to maintain efficiency when operating in a cold storage facility.

One of the main tasks that you’ll want to keep near the top of your priority list is working around condensation. When forklifts continuously enter and re-enter a frigid space, water will collect on the equipment and freeze. This will cause a drop in efficiency due to the time it takes to address this, but you can minimize that time by implementing a few practices that allow for the most efficient use of a cold storage forklift.

Cold room forklift maintenance involves performing all the standard forklift upkeep tasks at a more frequent rate. It’s always a good idea to identify and resolve any potential problems before they arise when cold storage forklifts are exposed to more arduous conditions. In addition to more frequent upkeep practices, how you store your forklift is key to maintaining maximum efficiency. Exposing your forklift to freezing temperatures for extended periods of time will lead to breaking parts and short-lived batteries, so it’s best to store your cold storage forklifts outside of the cold area—which also presents its own condensation challenges. While it isn’t always possible, it’s ideal to store your forklift in a dry area that’s only slightly above freezing temperature. This ensures that if condensation does form, it will do so slowly.

In conclusion, maintaining efficiency while using cold storage forklifts requires more frequent maintenance checks and a more detailed forklift storage routine.