How to Choose the Right Freight Elevator for Your Business?

Choosing the right elevator not only speeds up your material handling processes, but also improves workplace safety and saves money in the long run. So, how can you find the best freight elevator for your business's needs from hundreds of options?

Needs Analysis: The First and Most Important Step

• What Will You Be Carrying? What is the average and maximum weight of the loads you will be carrying? What are the dimensions (width, length, height) and shape (pallets, boxes, machine parts, etc.) of the loads? The answers to these questions will determine the elevator's carrying capacity and platform dimensions.
• How High Will You Be Carrying? What is the travel distance the elevator will cover? How many stops will it need to make? This will determine the selection of the elevator's motor power and drive system (hydraulic, electric).
• How Often Will You Use It? How frequently will the elevator be used throughout the day? Intensive use requires more durable and faster systems, while less intensive use may require more economical solutions.
• Where Will It Be Installed? What are the physical conditions of the area where the elevator will be installed (pit, ceiling height, floor structure)? Do you need compact solutions for tight spaces, or do you have ample installation space?

Capacity and Size: Suitability is Key

Choosing a lift with a capacity lower than your needs poses safety risks, while a lift with a capacity exceeding your requirements represents unnecessary costs. As a general rule, choosing a lift with a capacity at least 25% greater than your maximum load is a good practice for safety and longevity.

Platform dimensions are just as important as capacity. Measure the dimensions of the largest item you will be carrying and allow extra space for auxiliary equipment such as forklifts or pallet trucks to easily fit and maneuver on the platform.

Drive System: Hydraulic or Electric?

• Hydraulic Freight Elevators: When it comes to moving heavy loads in low-rise buildings, hydraulic freight elevators are often the most suitable solution. Installation costs are lower, and maintenance is simpler.
• Electric (Rope) Freight Elevators: For multi-story buildings and high-speed vertical transportation needs, electric (rope) freight elevators offer the most efficient solution. They are more energy efficient, but initial installation costs may be higher.

The choice between these two systems will be determined by your building's structure, your budget, and your operational speed expectations.

Safety and Regulations

A freight elevator is a significant investment and is central to occupational safety. The elevator you choose must have a CE certification. Ensure that it includes standard equipment such as overload sensors, emergency stop buttons, hose burst valves, and door safety systems.

Choose a Reliable Solution Partner

Choosing the right freight elevator requires more than simply comparing technical specifications. At İzmir Demir Lift, we analyze all your business's needs with our 100% domestic production capacity and offer you the most suitable, safe, and efficient freight elevator solution. Take advantage of our free consultation service and let's make the best decision for your business.