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    • Monthly Archives: August 2021

    Did you know Forklift Rodeos are a Thing?

    Forklift rodeo trophy displayed in the image.

    Move over Cowboy, Forklift Rodeos are Here!

    While traditional rodeos have been around since the 1800s, Forklift rodeos are a new phenomenon that has hit the material handling world by storm.

    Let’s face it, safety training isn’t always super entertaining. But what if there was a way to make forklift safety and operation competitive & fun? Enter the Forklift Rodeo!

    The best part is that these lift truck rodeos can be done in any setting where you utilize your reach trucks! Regardless of if you are training your technicians to run their fork lift in a shipyard, warehouse, or even construction sites, holding a rodeo might be a fun way to promote safety & training exercises for your team!

    What are forklift rodeos?

    A forklift rodeo can be anything from an obstacle course that is completed in a single run, to a series of individual tasks that your team can complete individually. It is also important to remember that there are no rules when it comes to these rodeos.

    Reach trucks and fork trucks are perfect competitors for a forklift rodeo. You can also hold your rodeo in any type of environment. But we suggest using material handling equipment and environments similar to where your lift truck technicians normally operate.

    What do I need to hold a forklift rodeo? How do I host a forklift rodeo?

    Not much really! Well, not any more than you already have in your warehouse.

    Obviously, you need a forklift. The rest is up to you depending on what safety key points you want to focus on or skills you want your employees to show off. We do suggest having at least some pallets or boxes that are similar in size to what your technicians normally interact with during their day-to-day jobs. SafetyVideos.com’s list of forklift safety practices is a good jumping-off place to start coming up with ideas!

    What are some ideas for my forklift rodeo obstacle courses?

    First you should think about what areas your employees need additional training in. Are your technicians bumping into shelves? Try running a rodeo that has lots of tight twists and turns! Some other ideas include:

    • Balancing beams across forks of the lift truck and have employees turn corners
    • Placing pallets & boxes inside marked areas
    • Stacking items securely and perfectly in piles
    • Moving a forklift without spilling a bucket of water or dropping balls rolling around on a pallet.

    For even more ideas, check out this amazing rodeo video from SafetyVideos.com!

    Mike Cody, Eastern Regional Business Manager, Yellowstone Fan

    Mike Cody has been kind enough to answer any and all questions related to used forklifts this month during our #DoosanDeepDive. When not keeping an eye on business at our Atlanta offices, Mike can be found instructing new members of our sales team to assisting customers with their growth goals.

    “Tell us a little about your background, are you a UGA alum?”

    No, I am originally from the Northeast and attended Rutgers University.

    “The title of Eastern Regional Business Manager is quite impressive! Tell us a little about the journey that led you to Doosan Industrial Vehicles of America.”

    I have been in the industry for 32 years with pretty much all of my prior experience being on the dealer side of things.  I started as an aftermarket rep at a Clark Dealership in Richmond, VA.  My last position prior to joining Doosan in 2016 was Executive V.P. at Eaheart Industrial Service where I was responsible for the day to day operations of their 3 forklift branches in VA.

    “Out of all of the products Doosan Industrial Vehicles of America sells, which one do you still get excited to talk with a customer about? Why?”

    The new warehouse products are the most exciting to discuss because they give us an opportunity to participate in high-volume deals.

    “Sales can be a high-stress and high-stakes job. What is your favorite way to relax a bit at work when you get the chance?”

    Being a remote employee doesn’t allow much of an opportunity to relax “at work”.  When I am in the Buford Office I enjoy catching up with people and discussing how life is treating them

    “College football is starting up, who do you root for?”

    Primarily Notre Dame, but I like most teams from the Northeast.

    “Let’s be honest, during the Pandemic we all got to spend some time in front of Netflix. What show did you enjoy the most during 2020?”

    While not on Netflix, Yellowstone was my favorite binge-watch.

    Used Forklifts: The Dirty Truth.

    During this week’s #DoosanDeepDive we will be taking a closer look at the wide world of used forklifts to determine who is a good candidate to purchase a used forklift. We will also be answering questions such as: How to spot quality used lift trucks and how to spot dishonest fork truck dealers. 

    What type of business can benefit from a used forklift?

    According to our Eastern Regional Business Manager, Mike Cody, any business that is looking to run their forklift less than 40 hours a week would be a good fit for a used reach truck. Used lift trucks are also a good fit for businesses that do not have a large amount of money set aside for the purchase of a new truck or are not interested in going through the process of financing a new electric forklift. 

    How much should I expect to pay for a used lift truck?

    There are many different types of reach forklifts available on the market and each kind has its price point. Keep in mind that depending on the accessories and functions you are looking for price can vary widely. Visiting a reputable forklift dealership is always a great starting point on your search.

    Because forklifts hold their value extremely well, you can expect to pay approximately 75% of the original cost. However, during times of scarcity, this price can average as high as 85%. Keep an eye on the current market and average asking price to make sure that you are not paying too much for your used fork truck. 

    What should I keep in mind before purchasing used forklifts?

    According to Mike Cody, no particular industry is better than another when it comes to utilizing new or used forklifts. But he did have the following suggestions to keep in mind before you make your purchasing decision:  

    • Companies that require their lifting equipment to run outside should probably invest in new equipment.
    • Do not purchase used equipment if you plan to work on a construction site.
    • Used lift trucks are often not eligible for normal service contracts or warranties. 
    • The cost of servicing older equipment can quickly outpace the upfront savings.
    • Always take a mechanic with you to evaluate any equipment before purchase. 

    What questions do you have about buying used fork lifts?

    Did we answer all of your questions regarding purchasing used forklifts? Comment below to have them answered!

    Don’t forget: every month we select a winner from our comment section! Winners will be announced on all of our social media channels, so if you are not already following us be sure to do so on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter or Instagram so you don’t miss your chance to claim your prize!

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