Choose For The Load At Reach
A telehandler moves materials using a telescopic boom and a suitable attachment. Common commercial tasks include unloading deliveries, positioning palletised building products and feeding materials into a planned work area. It is a materials handling machine, so it should not be confused with a purpose designed platform for routine people access.
The capacity printed on a machine description is not the capacity at every boom position. Give the supplier the load weight, load dimensions, load centre and required height and forward reach. The applicable load chart for the machine and attachment must support the intended movement throughout the operation.
Attachments And Landing Positions
Standard forks may suit a palletised load, while other tasks may need an attachment approved for the chosen machine. A different attachment can change the available capacity and operating method. Ask for the correct load information and instructions rather than assuming that a fitting which physically connects is suitable.
Check the landing area as carefully as the pickup point. Consider how the load will be received, whether it obstructs the driver's view and whether workers can stay clear while it is positioned. Never plan for someone to stand beneath a suspended or raised load to guide it by hand.
Traffic Management On Commercial Sites
The main operating route needs to separate people from moving plant. Identify pedestrian crossings, reversing areas, delivery bays and blind corners before the hire starts. HSE guidance on telehandlers highlights collision and overturning hazards, making the layout of a working site part of the equipment decision.
Assess overhead services, doorways, soft edges and temporary roads. Keep loads and travel configuration within the machine instructions and provide suitable supervision for the task. If the driver cannot see the route clearly, agree an appropriate safe system instead of relying on informal signals from passing workers.
Hire From Enquiry To Handover
Tell us the postcode, expected programme, maximum load and the furthest landing position. Describe the surface, gradients, access width and any work near excavations. Say whether you need an operated hire arrangement or have a trained, authorised driver available.
Before confirming, review the proposed machine, attachment, transport arrangements and site induction requirements with the supplier. On arrival, check the delivered equipment against the agreed specification and review the condition, records and instructions. Brief the driver and site team on the work plan, pedestrian controls and defect reporting route.
Regulations, Checks And Competence
The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998, known as LOLER, apply to lifting operations and relevant equipment. The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998, known as PUWER, cover suitable equipment, maintenance and training. Lifting work needs appropriate planning and supervision, with a competent driver and a suitable machine for the load.
A telehandler's examination requirements depend on its use and any competent person’s examination scheme. Ask for the current report and check the next due date, alongside pre-use checks and maintenance information. A routine service does not replace a statutory thorough examination. Read the HSE telehandler guidance when planning your site arrangements.
What Changes The Hire Quotation?
Reach, capacity, machine size, attachment choice and hire duration affect the quote. Transport, fuel terms, operator provision and access restrictions can also change the total. Confirm the delivery slot and whether a larger transport vehicle can safely reach the unloading position.
Ask how off-hire is recorded and what notice is needed for collection. Make clear if a phased project may require a different machine later. A written quotation should identify the equipment and attachment, the charging period and responsibilities for damage, security and routine checks during hire.
Telehandler Hire FAQs
Can A Telehandler Replace A Cherry Picker?
A telehandler does not replace a cherry picker for routine people access simply by fitting a basket to its forks. People lifting introduces separate equipment and planning requirements. Describe the task first so a purpose designed MEWP can be considered, and do not use an improvised platform or pallet to raise workers.
What Telehandler Capacity Should I Request?
Telehandler capacity should be specified at the actual height and forward reach of the load, using the correct load chart. Supply the weight, dimensions, load centre and attachment details. The machine’s headline lifting capacity alone is not enough to confirm that it can safely place materials at your intended landing point.