Preparing Your Forklift Fleet for the Colder Months

As the days continue to get shorter and the temperatures begin to drop, it’s time to put your mind in a space where you think about how the winter weather could potentially impact your forklift fleet. The cold conditions, moisture, and reduced visibility can all affect how your forklift trucks perform and the safety of using them. Staying ahead of the wind before the chill sets in will help to prevent any downtime, as well as, in the long run, extend the life of your equipment, which in turn will keep your operators safe.

Here is how you can prepare your forklift, and get it fleet ready for the colder months!

1. Check Batteries and Charging Systems

The cold weather has been known to significantly reduce battery performance. If you operate solely an electric forklift, you must ensure that all batteries are:

• Fully charged before use 
• Stored in a warm, dry area overnight
• Regularly checked for signs of corrosion, loose connections, or cracks

You should consider installing battery heaters or an insulated cover to maintain optimal temperatures throughout the winter. 

2. Tyre Inspection for Grip and its Condition

Wet and icy conditions significantly increase the risk of slipping, so keeping up with the tyre condition is crucial. You must always:

• Check for wear, cracks, or splits in the rubber
• Ensure the correct tyre pressure is filled in all tyres
• Use a non-marketing, or winter-specific tyre if you are operating your fleet outdoors

For extra added safety, review the surface conditions of your working area, ensuring it is kept clear from ice, oil, and/or debris.

3. Maintain Fluids and Lubrication

Cold temperatures can cause engine oil, hydraulic fluid, and transmission fluid to thicken, which in turn affects the performance.

• Use cold-weather-grade lubricants and fluids where possible
• Do regular checks of the antifreeze levels in diesel and LPG forklifts
• Warm up any equipment you are using before use to ensure a smooth operation

Routine maintenance checks at this time of year are key to preventing any kind of costly repairs. You can get these routine maintenance check-ups through Acclaim Handling. Just get in touch with our service team today – 01708 861 414, or [email protected]

4. Keep Visibility Clear

Fog, rain, and the shorter days mean operators need maximum visibility – which is an essential all year round, especially in the UK!

• Check that all lights, mirrors, and warning beacons are functioning
• Keep windscreens and cab windows clean and fog free
• Replace worn wiper blades, and top up any washer fluid

A top tip is, you could consider upgrading to LED lighting for better and increased illumination and energy efficiency during the darker, night-time shifts. 

5. Schedule Preventative Maintenance

Winter is the perfect time to book in for a seasonal forklift servicing with us at Acclaim Handling. Doing so, our engineers will be able to: 

• Perform detailed checks on all major forklift components
• Replace filters and fluids
• Test batteries and charging systems
• Ensure your fleet meets the safety standards before any cold weather hits

Preventative maintenance ensures our forklifts stay reliable, efficient, and ready for the months ahead. You can also explore more winter forklift maintenance tips to help protect your equipment and maximise performance in colder conditions.

6. Give Your Operators the Right Support

When the weather is cold and icy, it doesn’t just affect the equipment – it affects the people operating the equipment too. It is really important that you provide your team with:

• Appropriate PPE, this can include gloves, jackets and the right high-visibility uniform
• Access to warm areas to take breaks in 
• Refresher forklift training on safe winter operations, especially important when using outdoors

At Acclaim Handling, our RTITB-accredited training courses can help you ensure every operator is confident and compliant no matter the weather.

Prepare Now, Perform Later

By preparing your forklift fleet for the colder months now, you can avoid breakdowns, improve safety, and keep productivity running smoothly through winter. Whether you need servicing, new equipment, or expert advice, Acclaim Handling is here to help.

Keep your business moving this winter — contact Acclaim Handling for forklift servicing, hire, or winter preparation advice.
Visit acclaimhandling.co.uk or speak to your local depot today.