Just like you, your forklift works hard everyday! It lifts, carries, and transports heavy loads to keep your operations running smoothly, so you can get your work done. But just like any piece of equipment and machinery, it needs regular servicing to perform safely and efficiently.
So, what actually happens if you skip your forklift’s scheduled service? At Acclaim Handling, we’ve seen it first-hand how small maintenance delays can lead to big, and expensive, problems. Here is why staying on top of your forklift servicing schedule is so important.
You’re spending all this money on a forklift truck, and you want it to perform to top standards. When a forklift isn’t serviced regularly, or at the right times as suggested, it’s performance takes a rapid decline. The filters clog up, oil levels drop below minimum, and moving parts begin to wear out. As a result of this, the truck might:
This means that effectively, it is much lower productivity for your operators and a higher running cost for your business overall.
If you skip routine maintenance, yes it may save you time and money in the short-term, but it will more often than not lead to unexpected breakdowns later on down the line.
A service visit will identify any early signs of a problem, such as leaking hydraulics, worn brakes, or damaged hoses, way before they become a costly repair. Ignoring these smaller issues can and will result in major mechanical failures that could stop your operations from running.
For more insights on preventing downtime and extending your equipment’s lifespan, check out our guide on why businesses choose Acclaim Handling – it highlights how our approach to maintenance and service support keeps businesses operating at peak efficiency.
A poorly maintained forklift isn’t just inefficient – it can be really dangerous too.
Faulty brakes, worn tyres or malfunctioning steering can lead to accidents, injuries, and in some severe cases, even fatalities.
UK regulations require that all forklift trucks are kept in a safe working order, and skipping service intervals can mean you’re actually breaking compliance and putting your team at risk.
At Acclaim Handling, our engineers ensure that every service follows LOLER and PUWER safety standards, giving you peace of mind that your equipment meets all legal requirements.
As much as it might seem cheaper to delay a service, but neglect almost always costs more in the long run.
Here’s why:
Regular maintenance keeps your forklift in tip-top condition, helping to extend its lifespan, which saves you from premature replacement costs.
If your forklift is under warranty, or part of a hire/ lease agreement, skipping services could potentially void your coverage.
Manufacturers and suppliers often require proof of regular servicing as part of the warranty terms. Missing those intervals could mean you’re left covering repair costs that would otherwise be included.
At Acclaim Handling, we offer extensive forklift servicing and maintenance on all makes and models – from electric and diesel forklifts, to warehouse equipment and telehandlers – even if you haven’t purchased them through us.
Our qualified engineers carry out planned maintenance visits and thorough examinations to ensure your trucks remain safe, efficient, and compliant.
Whether you operate a singular forklift or a whole fleet, we can create a tailored service plan that fits in with your business and schedule.
Skipping a forklift service might seem harmless at first, but the long-term effects can be costly, unsafe and cause disruption.
Regular servicing is the key to safer operations, better performance, longer equipment life, and lower overall costs. If your next forklift service is due soon, don’t wait. Contact Acclaim Handling today to book your inspection and keep your trucks in peak condition.
01708 861 414
