{"id":10719,"date":"2020-03-18T11:43:52","date_gmt":"2020-03-18T10:43:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/?p=10719"},"modified":"2024-02-19T11:18:19","modified_gmt":"2024-02-19T11:18:19","slug":"3-wheels-vs-4-wheels-which-forklift-is-better-suited-to-your-business","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/blog\/2020\/03\/18\/3-wheels-vs-4-wheels-which-forklift-is-better-suited-to-your-business\/","title":{"rendered":"Differences between 3-wheels and 4-wheels Li-ion forklifts"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2><strong>Choosing The Right Forklift For Your Business<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Productivity, efficiency and practical moving. These are just some benefits of investing in a forklift for your business. Maybe you\u2019re considering upgrading your existing fleet. Or perhaps you\u2019re a new business investing in forklift technology for the first time.<\/p>\n<p>Whatever your reason to take a closer look at the forklifts on offer, the first step to finding the right fit is knowing which type of forklift you need. While choosing between <strong>electric<\/strong> and<strong> gas-powered<\/strong> is essential, knowing what style of forklift you require in the first place is the ideal place to start.<\/p>\n<p>Forklifts come in two distinct models: <strong>3 wheeled forklifts<\/strong> and <strong>4 wheeled forklifts<\/strong>. As to which is right for your business, we\u2019ve created a full guide to make the decision an easy one. Read on to find out more about the different types of forklifts available \u2013 as well as all the information needed to determine which one is the best fit for your business:<\/p>\n<h2><strong>What Is A 3-Wheeled Forklift?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>As is probably apparent to anyone reading the name, three-wheeled forklifts are forklifts that have three wheels instead of four. 3-wheel forklift trucks are mainly used in <strong>warehouse<\/strong> and<strong> logistics applications<\/strong> where the<strong> compact size<\/strong> of the trucks is favored. Typically, a forklift with three wheels will have<strong> two wheels at the front<\/strong> and a <strong>solo wheel at the back<\/strong> \u2013 a sort of reverse tricycle. This means the extra power is towards the end where lifting and <strong>counterbalancing<\/strong> is required, providing a smoother and more effective lift.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/products\/electric-forklift\/cpd15-18-20tvl\/\">The CPD15\/18\/20TVL<\/a>\u00a0is an excellent example of a three-wheeled forklift from the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/products\/electric-forklift\/\">EP product range<\/a>, with two large tyres at the front and a single wheel in the centre to the rear of the machine.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_99760\" style=\"width: 648px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/products\/electric-forklift\/cpd15-18-20tvl\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-99760\" class=\"wp-image-99760\" src=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/\u6e32\u67d3.92.png\" alt=\"CPD15\/18\/20TVL - LI-ION THREE-WHEEL COUNTERBALANCE FORKLIFT by EP.\" width=\"638\" height=\"364\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/\u6e32\u67d3.92.png 1638w, https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/\u6e32\u67d3.92-300x171.png 300w, https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/\u6e32\u67d3.92-1024x585.png 1024w, https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/\u6e32\u67d3.92-768x439.png 768w, https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/\u6e32\u67d3.92-1536x878.png 1536w, https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/\u6e32\u67d3.92-1080x617.png 1080w, https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/\u6e32\u67d3.92-1280x731.png 1280w, https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/\u6e32\u67d3.92-980x560.png 980w, https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/\u6e32\u67d3.92-480x274.png 480w, https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/\u6e32\u67d3.92-600x343.png 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 638px) 100vw, 638px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-99760\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">CPD15\/18\/20TVL &#8211; LI-ION THREE-WHEEL COUNTERBALANCE FORKLIFT by EP.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>It also comes with<a href=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/li-ion\/\"> Li-Ion technology<\/a>, allowing an even more <strong>compact size<\/strong> and<strong> larger operator space<\/strong> for higher ergonomics.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>The Advantages Of Choosing A 3-Wheeled Forklift<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>One of the most significant advantages to 3-wheel forklifts is that they\u2019re ideally suited for <strong>limited space<\/strong> environments. That three-wheel format translates to a <strong>smaller turning circle<\/strong>, allowing the forklift to turn in even cramped spaces. For locations that have small storage spaces, a three-wheeled forklift is a perfect way to boost productivity without coming across turning and flexibility issues.<\/p>\n<p>Forklifts with three wheels are very well-suited to working in smooth-floored spaces, and even the electric models are capable of working both indoors and outdoors as and when needed. This means they\u2019re best in warehouses or on a similar concrete floor, ideally suited for their specific niche.<\/p>\n<p>If you want to know more about compact sized forklifts in tight spaces, feel free to read our blog on <a href=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/blog\/2022\/01\/21\/best-small-electric-forklifts-for-tight-spaces\/\">Best Small Electric Forklifts for Tight Spaces.<\/a><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Use Cases For 3-Wheeled Forklifts<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Plenty of industries could benefit from investing in a three-wheeled forklift. For example, <strong>retail<\/strong> and <strong>ecommerce<\/strong> businesses with a <a href=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/blog\/2024\/01\/15\/forklift-for-warehouses\/\"><strong>small warehouse space<\/strong> <\/a>can benefit from a three-wheel forklift. Because of their <strong>turning circle<\/strong>, <strong>size<\/strong> and<strong> load capacity<\/strong>, indoor settings with<strong> narrow aisles<\/strong> and<strong> compact racking<\/strong> are where these models shine. They\u2019re uniquely suited to these <strong>smaller, smooth spaces<\/strong>, and well worth the investment for businesses with relatively standard lifting and load requirements.<\/p>\n<p>Some industries where 3-wheel forklifts are commonly used include indoor retail and storage warehouses, as well as <strong>garden centres,<\/strong> <strong>parcel depots<\/strong> and more. They\u2019re also well-suited to building suppliers and home improvement businesses, where quick retrieval of the often heavy stock is required. Flexible, versatile and nippy, three-wheel models have plenty to offer to the right company, including increased productivity.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>What Is a 4-Wheeled Forklift?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>A 4 wheeled forklift is any forklift that has four distinct wheels included within its design. With the vast majority of other industrial machinery, these four wheels are placed <strong>two at the front<\/strong> and <strong>two at the back<\/strong> of the forklift.<\/p>\n<p>While there are many varieties of four-wheel forklifts available, they generally all follow this formula to provide as productive and efficient an experience as possible. Four-wheel forklifts often have more heavy-duty equipment and may be built to be more ergonomic for long-term use.<\/p>\n<p>EP includes a range of different 4-wheel forklifts within their broader catalog, one of which is the popular <a href=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/products\/electric-forklift\/efl253-303-353s-p\/\">EFL Series<\/a>. Designed on a smaller scale, with all the functionality of a sizeable four-wheel forklift, this li-ion battery-powered forklift is a space-saving alternative to older, clunkier gas-powered models.<\/p>\n<p>A secondary example of a four-wheel forklift is the <a href=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/products\/electric-forklift\/cpd18-20fvl\/\">CP18\/20FVL<\/a>, a model designed for high performance with two drive motors included and electric powered.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_99771\" style=\"width: 569px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/products\/electric-forklift\/efl253-303-353s-p\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-99771\" class=\"wp-image-99771\" src=\"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/101.png\" alt=\"EFL series electric forklift with 4 wheels.\" width=\"559\" height=\"447\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-99771\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">EFL series electric forklift with 4 wheels.<\/p><\/div>\n<h3><strong>The Advantages Of Choosing A 4-Wheeled Forklift<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>If you\u2019re looking for <strong>greater versatility<\/strong> and freedom in your choice of forklift, then four wheels might be for you. While a three-wheeler isn\u2019t able to navigate rougher surfaces or gravel, a four-wheel model takes it on easily.<\/p>\n<p>For builder\u2019s yards and similar purposes, this makes four wheels a far better choice. <strong>Ramps<\/strong>, <strong>long distances<\/strong> and <strong>uneven surfaces<\/strong> are no challenge for a suitable four-wheel forklift.<\/p>\n<p>The other significant benefit to 4 wheel forklifts is that they are often<strong> more powerful<\/strong>. While this does equate to more cost, if you have loads that exceed the capacity of a three-wheel model, then it\u2019s more than worth the investment.<\/p>\n<p>While historically four wheels have led to a far wider turning circle, the gap between the two models is slowly being reduced. While three wheels will always be slightly better in terms of smaller spaces, electric four-wheel forklifts aren\u2019t far off being fully functional for these spaces too.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Use Cases For 4-Wheeled Forklifts<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Anywhere that has uneven surfaces, gravel or long-distance moving is ideally suited for a four-wheel forklift machine. These vehicles do best with larger carrying capacities, which makes them well suited to industries such as manufacturing, wholesale and even builder\u2019s yards and construction.<\/p>\n<p>Their hardiness means they\u2019re well-suited to outdoor work, which means they could also be functional for use on farmyards and similar spaces. If your business requires high capacity loads to be moved day in and day out, then a four-wheeler is the workhorse you need.<\/p>\n<p>Four-wheel forklifts are well suited to more high-intensity requirements, especially when it comes to travelling longer routes or even performing varied duties from day to day. Their versatility comes from the ability to traverse a range of surfaces, as well as securely carry awkward loads where they need to go.<\/p>\n<p>For any business, this is hugely beneficial \u2013 especially where there\u2019s plenty of space to turn and manoeuvre. For larger retail spaces, or even the moving of white goods and heavy, expensive equipment, a four-wheel forklift is a solid choice.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>3 Or 4-wheeled \u2013 Which Is Better?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>So, is a three-wheel forklift or a 4-wheel model the best fit for your business? That all depends on your exact business requirements, and what you need to forklift to do. While we\u2019ve covered in-depth the main benefits of each type of forklift, the final decision is down to personal choice.<\/p>\n<p>By understanding what you need your forklift to do on an average day, you can better understand which type of forklift is right for you. Do you require something that can work outside in all weathers?<\/p>\n<p>Whichever model you\u2019re considering, for ultimate versatility, opting for an electric forklift is your best bet. Not only does this mean that you can use your forklift indoors safely, but it can also save your business costs in the long run. EP has a wide range of electric forklifts, both with three and four wheels, designed to suit the needs of just about any kind of business. The only challenge is finding the one you like best.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re considering investing in a forklift for your business, talking to the experts is the best way to find a solution that fits you.\u00a0Contact us today\u00a0to discuss the range of three and four-wheel forklifts we offer, and we\u2019ll soon find something perfectly suited to your business needs.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Learn with EP what are the differences and benefits of 3-wheels and. 4-wheels forklifts.\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":10720,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_seopress_robots_primary_cat":"none","_seopress_titles_title":"EP Equipment | 3-wheels vs. 4-wheels Forklift","_seopress_titles_desc":"Looking to compare a 3-wheel and a 4-wheel forklift? What are the benefits and differences of each? Here&#039;s our ultimate guide, read more!","_seopress_robots_index":"","_et_pb_use_builder":"","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[23],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-10719","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-news"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10719","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=10719"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10719\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":96914,"href":"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10719\/revisions\/96914"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/10720"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=10719"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=10719"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ep-equipment.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=10719"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}