How to choose the right telehandler for your trade project

With spring here and summer just around the corner, it’s time to get your gear ready for the busy months ahead. Whether you’re working on a construction site, in a warehouse, or out on the farm, having the right tools and equipment at your disposal is essential for staying productive and efficient – but we’re sure you already know that! That’s where a telehandler comes in.

At Smiths Hire, we’ve been providing trusted tool hire services across the Northwest for over 50 years. Our range of telehandlers for hire are perfect for a variety of applications and have reach capabilities of 3m to 17m. With our extensive fleet and expert tool hire service, you can rely on us to get you the right telehandler for your project!

Think about what your project needs

Before choosing your telehandler from our range, you’ll want to think about what specific needs your project has. For example, think about the load capacity you’ll require to safely handle materials, the lifting height you’ll need to reach raised areas, and the type of terrain/floor you’ll be working on. If you’re operating on uneven ground or navigating tight spaces, make sure to choose a telehandler suited to those challenges.

For example, if you’re working on a site with challenging conditions, the Avant 735 Loader (M735) would be a great choice. It offers a 1400kg load capacity and a 3080mm lifting height, making it perfect for tight spaces and uneven terrain. With a self-levelling telescopic boom and high-flow auxiliary hydraulics, it’s versatile enough for various tasks on difficult sites.

If you’re working on a larger, flatter site and you need to move heavier materials, the JLG 3614RS is a great option. With a 3600kg maximum lift capacity and a 14m (46ft) lift height, it’s built to handle more demanding tasks. Its proven powertrain and simplified boom design offer increased reliability and easier maintenance, while the spacious cabin and intuitive controls make those long shifts on site that much more comfortable.

How much height do you need?

Another important aspect to consider is the height and load requirements of your project. If you’re working on high-rise construction, roofing, or large-scale infrastructure, you’ll need a machine with an extended reach to lift materials safely and efficiently. Factors like terrain, load weight, and manoeuvrability will also need to be taken into account to ensure you choose the right equipment. If your project demands significant height, the JLG 4017 PS (17m) or JCB 540-170 (16.7m) telehandlers are excellent choices, offering both impressive reach and robust lifting capacities to easily handle demanding tasks.

If you don’t need that extra height, there are plenty of great options to get the job done. For lower lift requirements or tighter spaces, something like the Manitou MT 625 (6m) or JCB 531-70 (7m) could be a perfect fit. They still pack plenty of power, versatility and can carry a heavy load without the added bulk of a larger machine.

Eco-friendly telehandlers

If you’re looking to make environmentally conscious choices for your project, the 6m Electric Telehandler (Snorkel SR626E) is a great option. With zero emissions and powered by lithium-ion batteries, it offers up to 6 hours of continuous use on a single charge! It provides the same reliability and performance as a diesel model, with full-time 4-wheel drive and selectable 4-wheel steer for flexibility across different terrains. Plus, the fully enclosed, heated cab ensures comfort for your team in any condition.

If you need a telehandler for your next project and want to take a look at our range, our expert team is here to help. Whether you’re looking for a high-reaching model or an eco-friendly alternative, we can help you choose the perfect telehandler to keep your worksite efficient and productive!

You can find us online or at our 18 tool hire depots across the North West and Yorkshire, including major cities like Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds! And of course, if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to our expert team on 0333 323 2100!