Yale Lift Truck Ensures Flexibility in Intralogistics

Lack of flexibility is the main issue when intralogistics, warehouse operations, and business processes change. In rapid developments, Yale Lift Truck Technologies quickly supports companies with its network of independent dealers. They provide on-site specific solutions from a single source.

“The warehouse operation faces many challenges, such as increasing customer demand, seasonal peaks, unpredictable changes, cost management, and employee retention,” says Ron Farr, Director, Warehouse Sales – EMEA at Yale Lift Truck Technologies. “This requires a high level of flexibility. Therefore, companies in intralogistics are increasingly relying on knowledgeable suppliers who can help them achieve this flexibility.”

Yale dealers advise with industry expertise and intralogistics competence. They understand the local conditions and find the right mix of forklift types for a company. “Yale Lift Truck Technologies offers a range of solutions and forklifts for all phases of logistics operations,” says Ron Farr. “Yale supports its dealers with the right forklift for every task and application of their customers. From N-series forklifts to narrow aisle trucks and the smallest electric forklifts, Yale offers options for all intralogistics requirements. An example of competent support is driver training. Requirements, expectations, and certifications can vary from country to country – independent Yale dealers are also familiar with this.

Intralogistics from a Single Source

Many Yale dealers offer their customers complete solutions by providing not only Yale warehouse technology forklifts but also additional solutions such as storage and shelving systems. This way, busy companies can save time and optimize processes with just one supplier. Furthermore, dealers typically also offer service for all solutions, simplifying maintenance. With this approach, companies remain flexible and can choose the right option for their operations without being tied to a specific OEM. This is important.

“From experience, we know that customers tend to commit to a whole range of product types when purchasing or leasing forklifts from an OEM. This can lead companies to compromise in their search for the right solution,” explains Farr. “In contrast, a flexible, independent dealer can provide optimal equipment and innovations from carefully selected suppliers.

Since Yale dealers are independent, they can freely decide which additional solutions best complement Yale products, thus selecting the best options for their customers or offering other products that are popular in the local market. In this way, customers can rely on a solution that is beneficial to them, rather than something that is part of a larger offering. Dealers can collaborate with specific suppliers to cater to the individual preferences of customers.

“The right solution depends on the specific operation, and these requirements can change over time. However, in conversations with intralogistics companies, we have heard of several cases where companies have been bound by contracts for forklifts that serve the OEMs’ business model beyond their requirements,” says Farr.

Flexibly Adjusting the Fleet

In warehouse management, flexibility is required to handle seasonal peaks or unexpected demand fluctuations. In addressing the challenges posed by planned or unplanned demand spikes, Yale and its dealers can effectively support companies.

“When a forklift fleet needs to be expanded due to demand, it is not enough to simply add more forklifts,” explains Farr. “The processes need to be rethought.” With short-term rentals and on-site service, Yale dealers provide flexible support during high utilization to ensure maximum operational uptime for warehouses. They also offer a wide range of Yale warehouse technology forklifts that can adapt to different operational requirements. This allows companies to flexibly select a forklift fleet that meets their specific needs.

Relieving the Driving Personnel

When looking for solutions to challenges such as staff shortages, high employee turnover, and employee retention, Yale’s product lines offer additional flexibility. Yale’s reach trucks and counterbalance forklifts are specifically designed for the operator. All models come standard with ergonomic features and intuitive controls for flexible personnel deployment. Operators with varying experience can work easily, comfortably, and efficiently. With changing requirements and rapid changes, switching to another forklift is straightforward.

Some companies are exploring how Yale robotics can help address labor market issues. They are interested in driverless forklifts to evaluate new processes that ensure efficiency and sustainability. Yale’s robotic technology can be implemented without significant changes to the infrastructure, making it more flexible, cost-effective, and accessible than companies initially expect.

Independent Dealers for Customized Solutions

Different companies need different solutions. Due to increasing pressure and constantly changing requirements, companies need suppliers who can adapt flexibly. Therefore, Yale focuses on building a global network of independent and thus flexible local dealers who are better able to respond to specific customer needs, often with financing options or contract flexibility.

“Our independent dealer partners enable Yale to focus on its core competencies. That is the development and manufacturing of innovative, reliable, and efficient forklift technologies that provide long-term value,” says Farr. “Many companies do not know what will change in the next five years. That is precisely why choosing the flexibility of Yale and our dealer network can be a significant opportunity.