Question: What is a forklift worth without a good forklift battery to power it? The answer: not much.

Equipping your forklifts with the best battery is crucial for maintaining efficient operations. Not only can batteries make or break your warehouse operation – they also can take your business to the next level. That’s why we’ve consulted with our expert forklift team to find out which batteries reign supreme and answer questions such as:

“How much is a forklift battery?”

“Should I switch to a more expensive Lithium Ion Battery?

“What battery should I get if I’m looking to save money without sacrificing reliability?”

“How do I choose the right forklift battery for my needs?

“How long do forklift batteries last?”

“How does it take to charge a forklift battery?”

“How many volts is a forklift battery?”

“How much do forklift batteries cost?”

“How much do forklift batteries weigh and what is the optimum weight for your needs?”

“How much sulfuric acid is in a forklift battery?”

So let’s start with the basics. This article will walk you though the basic THINGS EVERYONE SHOULD KNOW before investing in batteries for your forklifts. Then we’ll break down the most popular battery types and look at them side by side.

The Top 8 Specs to Think About – Key Considerations When Buying Forklift Batteries

First, let’s all get on the same page – there are so many technical specifications to look at before you purchase. I’m sure, like me, you’ve looked at one of those specification sheets and thought “which of these stats truely matter and which ones are just, well, fluff?” My answer to your very astute question: “It’s all important, BUT some specifications are more crucial to look at before other – especially when loking to compare batteries against each other. See below a list of our TOP 8 SPECS to considerer before buying a battery.

⚡Voltage (V): Forklift batteries typically range from 12V to 80V, with higher voltages indicating more power for demanding applications.

• • Choosing the right voltage forklift battery is key for two reasons: safety and performance. Mismatched voltage can harm your forklift’s electrical system, while the correct voltage ensures your machine runs smoothly. Check your forklift’s manual or current battery for the right voltage.

⚙️Capacity (Ah): Amp-hour (Ah) rating determines how long a battery can operate on a single charge.

• • Choosing the right Ah capacity for a forklift battery is vital. It determines how long the forklift runs (runtime), avoids unnecessary charging interruptions, and ensures safe operation within the forklift’s limitations.

🚀Charging Speed: Faster charging allows for increased uptime and opportunity charging during breaks.

• • If  better warehouse productivity is something that you’re wanting, then make sure to consider charging speed for forklift batteries. Faster charging means less downtime, but can shorten battery life. Choose the speed that balances productivity with battery health for your operation’s needs. If warehouse productivity is a priority, consider a battery with fast charging capabilities.

🧰Maintenance: Lead-acid batteries require regular watering and cleaning, while lithium-ion batteries are virtually maintenance-free.

• • Consider maintenance needs before buying a forklift battery. Low-maintenance options might seem better initially, but regular upkeep can add up. Understanding the maintenance also helps predict if your team can properly care for the battery, maximizing its lifespan and overall value. Lead-acid batteries require routine maintenance, while lithium-ion ones generally need less, but often cost more upfront. Weighing maintenance needs with other factors will help you choose the best battery.

🔋Lifespan: Lithium-ion batteries generally boast longer lifespans compared to lead-acid batteries.

• • Choosing a forklift battery with a long lifespan saves you money in the long run. Fewer replacements mean less expense, and some batteries require less maintenance throughout their life. Plus, a strong battery ensures consistent forklift performance for a longer stretch. It’s a smart investment.

💲Cost: While upfront costs for lithium-ion batteries are higher, their lower maintenance needs and longer lifespan can lead to lower total cost of ownership (TCO) in the long run.

• • Upfront battery cost is just one piece of the puzzle. Cheaper options may have hidden costs like shorter lifespan or frequent maintenance, making them more expensive in the long run. Consider features and how you’ll use the forklift to find the best value.

⚖️Weight: Lighter batteries can improve forklift performance and maneuverability.

• • Briefly, forklift battery weight matters for safety and performance. Forklifts need a minimum weight (check your manual!) to stay stable, and a lighter battery (like lithium-ion) might affect runtime compared to a heavier lead-acid option. Choose the right weight for your needs to ensure both safety and optimal performance.

⚗️Sulfuric Acid (Lead-Acid Only): Lead-acid batteries contain sulfuric acid, which necessitates proper handling and disposal due to environmental concerns.

• • Checking sulfuric acid in a forklift battery before buying is key for safety (avoiding leaks) and battery health (ensuring proper electrolyte level). It also helps you understand maintenance needs. Lead-acid batteries require regular watering with distilled water to maintain electrolyte level. Wear gloves and eye protection when handling and make sure you and your team knows what they’re doing! If not, then don’t worry, Total Warehouse offers training videos and courses for handling lead acid batteries. You can learn more about our training solutions here, but see below a short list of some of the advantages our training can offer you.

• • • 🦺Safety Focus: Their training prioritizes safety by teaching proper handling techniques for sulfuric acid, a hazardous material. This can help prevent burns and environmental accidents.
    • 👩🏽‍🏫Expertise-Based Learning: You’ll gain knowledge from Total Warehouse’s expertise in forklift battery care.
    • 🎯Targeted Techniques: The training focuses on specific techniques for watering forklift batteries, ensuring you avoid overwatering or under watering, which can damage the battery.
    • 🔋Maximized Battery Life: By understanding how watering impacts battery life, you’ll be equipped to take better care of your batteries and extend their lifespan.
    • ↗️Efficiency Gains: The training aims to teach you how to perform battery watering efficiently, minimizing downtime for your forklifts.

Overall, Total Warehouse’s training can help you ensure safety, improve battery care practices, and maximize the lifespan and efficiency of your forklift batteries.

Now that we’re all on the same page, let’s get into the nitty gritty and what I like to lovingly call (The Great Battery Wars!) All of the battery listed below in our OFFICAL comparison chart are great options – but which option is best for your operation? I hope this section will assist you in answering that question. Keeping in mind the TOP 8 SPECS above, you can see how the battery brands below stack up against each other and make an educated decision before investing. In the section below, I’ll provide purchasing tips and share more details on our battery options including the Linde KBS lithium, Enersys, Triathlon, GNB Industrial Power/Stryten, and Hawker. Also keep in mind that all of the battery brands listed below are sold by Total warehouse – so I encourage you to reach out to us here after you’ve read this article – we’d be happy to go more in depth on the PROS & CONS of any of these battery brans + answer any additional questions you have so that you’re totally confident that you’ve made the right battery investment for your company.

OUR OFFICIAL BATTERY COMPARISON CHART

⚗️Sulfuric Acid (Lead-Acid Only)

TOP CHOICES FOR FORKLIFT BATTERIES (BREAKDOWN)

Best Choice for Performance: Linde KBS Lithium Batteries – With their unmatched charging speeds, long lifespans, and minimal maintenance requirements, lithium-ion batteries are the clear winner for top performance. However, their higher upfront cost makes them a better fit for operations prioritizing maximum efficiency and productivity.

WHAT LINDE BATTERIES HAVE TO OFFER: Lithium batteries and chargers are the optimal solution for the energy efficiency and durability requirements of today’s material handling industry. Combining Linde lithium ion battery and Linde charger can increase energy yield by 30% compared to lead-acid batteries. With their robust performance, these forklift batteries ensure extended operational hours and fast recharging to enhance productivity in operations.

Overall Best Choice: This depends on your specific needs and priorities. If maximizing performance and efficiency is paramount, then Linde KBS Lithium Batteries are the way to go. However, for a budget-conscious option that delivers dependable power, then GNB Industrial Power/Stryker or Hawker Lead-Acid Batteries are a solid choice.

WHAT GNB INDUSTRIAL POWER HAS TO OFFER: Keeping your business moving is essential and having reliable power for your motive power equipment is critical. GNB Industrial Power offers a comprehensive portfolio of motive power batteries, performance management tools and chargers, including lithium technologies, for material handling, mining, railway, military and other applications.

Best Choice for Value: GNB Industrial Power/Stryker or Hawker Lead-Acid Batteries – These well-established brands offer reliable and dependable lead-acid batteries at competitive prices. While they require regular maintenance and have shorter lifespans compared to lithium-ion options, they provide a solid solution for applications where upfront cost is a major consideration.

Second Runner Up: Enersys or Triathlon Lead-Acid Batteries – These brands are good options to consider alongside GNB Industrial Power/Stryker or Hawker, depending on specific features and pricing offered by your local dealer.

Finding the Perfect Forklift Battery for Your Needs

With so many options available, choosing the right forklift battery can be a tricky choice. So don’t hesitate, give us a call today at (833) 868-2500. We have helped countless businesses across the United States achieve lower maintenance costs, increased worker satisfaction, and economic sustainability by providing them with energy-efficient forklift solut6i. Our team of highly knowledgeable experts can help you make the right decision for your business.