With the new year arrived, it’s timely to consider concepts and practices your business can observe to lift the efficiency and longevity of your forklift fleet and staff over the next 12 months. Here are some Toyota Material Handling Australia tips to consider.
Maximise your TMHA fleet efficiency
Efficiencies can be found in every operating area of business. At the heart of the Toyota Production System is a value we call “kaizan”, or continuous improvement. To produce the best outcome, all processes must eliminate waste and improve efficiency. It sounds simple enough but let’s see how it can be applied to a forklift – or other Toyota material handling equipment.
Keep talking
Communication between the technician, operator and management assists in keeping your equipment in optimum running condition and establish a clear line of accountability. Simply keeping a service log for your machines will assist all stakeholders in obtaining information about the current condition of the machine, upcoming service intervals, and also who has been responsible for the servicing so far.
Train hard
Highly trained operators will make fewer mistakes and are more likely to increase workplace productivity. A higher level of 'forklift IQ' and smoother operating will also assist in better fuel efficiency and cause less damage to equipment and your goods.
Let software do the heavy lifting
Fleet management software helps keep site of your operation. Unsure what to use? Toyota offers one of the world's leading on-board forklift fleet management system, I Site. This enables you to view data regarding operating costs, forklift condition and operation behaviours. Providing real-time monitoring of the warehouse floor helps to reduce costs and improves health and safety outcomes.
Genuine is best
Aftermarket parts or third-party service technicians may have lower ticket prices but how much could they end up costing your business when quality is compromised? Using genuine parts and having your vehicles serviced by Toyota’s factory-trained technicians will safeguard long-term running costs.
Safety, safety safety
An operation cannot be efficient without ensuring the health and safety of its drivers and condition of its machines. Safe practices naturally tend to be the most efficient practices, as complicated operating techniques are usually the most hazardous. Keep it simple, keep it safe. Seat belts, high-vis vests and compliance with all relevant industry safety regulations are an effective way to maintain a healthy operation.
It might be the final tip on this list but, but prioritising safety is an easy way to remain efficient.
Wishing everyone a happy, healthy and prosperous 2019!
These tips can help lift the efficiency and longevity your forklift fleet and staff over the next 12 months