Have a requirement for moving goods? Whether down to manual handling issues or to improve efficiency, we can help you identify the type of goods or service lift you require...
Choosing a goods lift that is perfect for you can seem like a difficult task. There is a wealth of options according to types, sizes and loads, so here at Stannah, we will make it easier by asking these seven simple questions...
1. What tasks do you want your lift to perform?
This may seem a strange starting point, but the idea is to make life easier, staff safer and customers happy with your standard of service. So we need to know what function you need the lift to perform and how many daily journeys (travel from one floor to another) it will make.
2. How much do you need to move in one journey?
The weight and volume of each load (the items you put in the lift) determine the lift capacity required. You may need to move large boxes of light objects or small boxes of heavy items. These two examples may not require the same lift car size but may need the same weight capability. It is essential to get this right, as overloaded goods lifts will not function efficiently.
3. What distance do you need to move your goods over, and are more than two stops required at levels/floors?
This will determine the structure, size and position of your lift within your building. The distance each type of lift is suitable for moving varies by product. You can arrange a site survey to have one of our expert engineers evaluate your site alongside your needs and requirements to identify the best solution for you.
4. Will you be loading at the floor or waist level?
- Floor level. If you plan to move heavy or awkward goods on a pallet or trolley, you will require a floor-level loading lift (e.g. our Trolleylift, Levelmaster and Goodsmaster ranges). An example is a goods lift used for laundry movement in a hospital or hotel.
- Waist level. If your lift is to improve service in a café or restaurant, then waist-height serving with a Microlift, or dumb waiter, is the most suitable option.
5. How many lifts will you ideally need?
This depends on the size of your operation, the speed at which you need to move goods and the number of staff using the lift/s. It is also determined by the size and arrangement of your premises.
Dumbwaiters used for food and drink service are often installed in pairs, one for service and one for clearing. A double-decker, two service lifts in one shaft is an alternative option. It is worth noting that often catering lifts are finished in stainless steel for cleaning ease and hygiene purposes.
6. Do you need an attendant to accompany the goods in the lift?
Some larger goods lifts can also accommodate up to 2 attendants. Goods attendant lifts are a good solution if the stairs are far away from the location of the lift; there is also an increasing trend to use them as bin/bike lifts in housing developments.
If you have more questions about dumb waiters or goods lifts, please take a look at our free eBook, Goods lifts: your questions answered.
7. And finally, can your premises meet your requirement?
The final decision is how much floor space, pit depth or ramp required, and headroom you have available to fit your chosen lift type. A lift company can visit your premises and help you determine how your building can accommodate your ideal requirement.
We hope we have helped you with making your choice about a goods or service lift. If you have any questions or would like to arrange a FREE site visit, then please get in touch - we know we can help!