What you need to know?

From Food & Beverage to Onion Sheds and Warehousing—We’ve Got the Right Lift for the Job

When it comes to material handling, the right forklift makes all the difference. From maneuvering through tight warehouse aisles to handling heavy loads on uneven outdoor terrain, different industries require different types of equipment. At On-Site Material Handling, we work with a wide range of customers, especially in food and beverage, agriculture (like harvest farms and onion sheds), and general warehousing. Here's a quick breakdown of what to look for in a forklift based on where and how you work.

Food and Beverage: Clean, Compact, and Compliant

The food and beverage industry demands equipment that’s clean, reliable, and efficient in tighter indoor environments. Here’s what to consider:

• Best Choice: Electric forklifts
• These are ideal for indoor use due to their zero emissions and quiet operation. They're also more compact, making it easier to maneuver through processing facilities, bottling plants, or refrigerated storage areas.
• Recommended Models:
• Linde’s E20–E35 Series is a go-to for electric performance with strong capacity and operator comfort.
• Bonus Tip: Look for lifts with stainless steel or galvanized options if operating in wash-down or cold storage environments.

Harvest Farms & Onion Sheds: Rugged and Ready for the Outdoors

Agricultural operations—especially during harvest—require heavy-duty performance that can handle dirt, dust, and uneven terrain.

• Best Choice: Internal Combustion (IC) Pneumatic Tire Forklifts
• Gas or diesel-powered forklifts with pneumatic tires offer the durability and traction needed for outdoor use on gravel, fields, or open-air sheds.
• Recommended Models:
• Linde H25T Hydrostat are strong choices that deliver power and control in dusty or open environments.
• Bonus Tip: Hydrostatic transmissions are a big plus in this setting—offering smoother operation and reduced brake wear.

General Warehousing: Tight Aisles and High Racking

Warehouses with racking systems and high stacking requirements need nimble equipment with excellent reach and control.

• Best Choice: Electric Cushion Tire Forklifts or Narrow Aisle Equipment
• These forklifts are designed for smooth indoor floors and feature tight turning radii—perfect for dense storage environments.
• Recommended Models:
• Big Joe’s narrow aisle reach trucks and Linde’s E14–E20 Series electric forklifts deliver superior handling and lift height for pallet storage.
• Bonus Tip: If your warehouse layout is extra tight, consider articulated or turret trucks designed for very narrow aisle (VNA) applications.

No matter your industry, choosing the right forklift means understanding your environment, load requirements, and operating conditions. At On-Site Material Handling, we don’t just sell forklifts—we help you find the best one for your specific needs.

Ready to find the right lift?

Give us a call or drop us a message. Our team is here to help you select the perfect forklift for your operation—whether you're stacking pallets in a warehouse or moving onions out of the field.

Contact us today to get started or ask questions—we’re ready when you are.