Matthai Blog Tuesday, June 03 2025
Matthai Material Handling is excited to announce a new addition to our lineup of material handling solutions - Hyundai Material Handling Equipment. This collaboration marks a significant milestone for Matthai Material Handling, allowing us to offer a broader range of Hyundai lift trucks designed to deliver performance, durability, and innovation as we expand our ability to serve more customers across more industries, while remaining committed to quality and uptime. . About Hyundai Material Handling Equipment Globally recognized for their engineering excellence, Hyundai Material Handling Equipment delivers a comprehensive lineup of electric, LPG, and diesel forklifts tailored for today’s demanding warehouse, manufacturing, and distribution environments. As an authorized Hyundai dealership, this partnership will allow us to provide our customers with top-tier lift truck solutions that are synonymous with reliability and performance. Why Choose Hyundai Forklifts? Known for their cutting-edge technology and commitment to quality, Hyundai lift trucks are designed to meet the rigorous demands of modern material handling operations. Their extensive range ensures businesses of all sizes can find the right forklift for the job – from warehouse forklifts to large-capacity lift trucks. Key Features of Hyundai Lift Trucks Hyundai lift trucks are packed with key features that include:
These lift trucks are engineered to maximize uptime and efficiency, making them a valuable asset in any material handling operation. Additionally, Hyundai’s commitment to innovation is evident in their use of eco-friendly technologies and energy-efficient solutions, aligning with our own values at Matthai Material Handling. Benefits of the Matthai Material Handling and Hyundai Partnership Our partnership with Hyundai supports Matthai Material Handling’s commitment to being a one-stop shop for material handling solutions. By combining our extensive industry knowledge and service excellence with Hyundai’s equipment, we can now offer:
Ready to Power Your Operation? At Matthai Material Handling, we are committed to helping our customers succeed with the right solutions. Together with Hyundai Material Handling Equipment, we will continue providing a one-stop shop to our customers focused on efficiency, safety, and sustainability. Contact a Matthai Material Handling expert to learn more about Hyundai lift trucks, schedule a demo, or request a quote today! Tuesday, May 13 2025
Forklifts have long been the backbone of warehousing and manufacturing operations, playing a critical role in material handling and logistics. For years, these machines have relied on internal combustion engines or lead-acid batteries. As technology advances, end users within the market have explored ways to improve power efficiency, improve the safety of their employees, reduce downtime, and reduce their carbon footprint. There is a rise in demand for more efficient, reliable, and eco-friendly energy solutions. To answer that demand, lithium-ion forklift batteries offer a solution that addresses many of the limitations of outdated power sources. Why Lithium-Ion Batteries are the Preferred ChoiceSeveral factors contribute to the growing preference for lithium-ion batteries in forklift applications. Here are two of the big ones:
How Lithium-Ion Forklift Batteries Impact Service NeedsWhen it comes to a well-running fleet, regular maintenance is crucial. One of the most significant advantages for lithium-ion powered fleets, though, is the reduced maintenance required compared to other internal combustion or lead-acid powered forklifts. Unlike lead-acid batteries, lithium-ion forklift batteries don’t require watering, acid adjustments, or equalizing charges, which lowers the overall maintenance burden and associated costs. Internal combustion forklifts have a lower upfront cost. However, an internal combustion engine has more parts than an entire electric forklift. With more moving parts, more frequent service is required, increasing the total cost of ownership (TCO). What We’re Noticing from CustomersAs our customers convert their fleets to lithium-ion-powered forklifts, we expect them to see their ROI within three years. They are running longer shifts without interruption, and experience fewer breakdowns requiring costly repairs. Lithium-ion batteries also contribute to a safer and more environmentally friendly workplace. They produce no emissions, reducing the carbon footprint and improving air quality in enclosed spaces. Keeping an Eye on Material HandlingAs the industry continues to evolve, we can expect further advancements in electric and automated forklift technology to edge out older ways of operating. As your material handling partner, we can assure you that lithium-ion forklift batteries aren’t just a trending energy solution– they’re a strategic investment in efficiency, safety, and sustainability. As more facilities experience the benefits firsthand, the shift away from traditional power sources becomes not only logical, but essential. If you’re looking to reduce downtime, cut maintenance costs, and streamline your operations, we’re here to walk you through the transition. Connect with one of our experts today to explore how lithium-ion solutions can move your world forward! Tuesday, April 22 2025
Forklift enclosures are essential for maximizing safety and productivity in warehousing and distribution applications. Having the right cab enclosure and accessories for your lift trucks makes all the difference to keep your operators protected from unwanted objects, debris, or weather without obstructing visibility or airflow. As a leader in the industry, ProEnclosures forklift enclosures and accessories provide comprehensive solutions to protect your operators and enhance operational efficiency. We’re proud to be able to offer these solutions to our customers. The Importance of Forklift Safety in WarehousingAs your material handling partner, safety is our number one priority. While equipment manufacturers put safety at the forefront of their product designs, ProEnclosures’ products allow businesses to take a step further and customize forklift enclosures and accessories specifically to their needs. Forklift enclosures offer increased protection, comfort in the elements, noise reduction, and increased security. Comprehensive Protection with Full Cab Forklift EnclosuresFull cab enclosures from ProEnclosures offer comprehensive protection for forklift operators. These enclosures shield operators from external hazards, such as falling debris and harsh environmental conditions, which reduces the risk of injury. Additionally, the enclosures are designed to provide a comfortable working environment, which can help improve operator focus and productivity. Photo by ProEnclosures By integrating full cab enclosures into your forklifts, you can ensure that your operators are well-protected. This helps them perform their tasks efficiently, even in challenging conditions indoors or outside. Weather-Resistant Roofs, Windshields, Doors, and Covers for Uninterrupted OperationsWeather conditions can significantly impact warehouse operations, particularly for applications that require forklift operators to work outside. ProEnclosures offers weather-resistant roofs and windshields that protect operators from rain, snow, and harsh sunlight, ensuring uninterrupted operations regardless of the weather. The polycarbonate material used for the roofs, windshields, doors, and covers is proven to withstand the rigors of daily use, and outperforms similar products made using other materials like acrylic or glass. By equipping your forklifts with weather-resistant roofs and windshields, you can maintain productivity and safety in all weather conditions, therefore minimizing downtime and operational disruptions. ProEnclosures Forklift Cab Accessories for Operator ComfortProEnclosures goes beyond basic protection by offering a range of additional accessories that allow you to customize your safety solutions. Windshield wipers, and heating and ventilation systems enhance operator comfort and safety, which ultimately improves safety and minimizes spending on avoidable damage. Photo by ProEnclosures Contact Matthai Material Handling for Forklift Enclosures for Your FleetInvesting in forklift enclosures and cab accessories can drastically improve the experience of your forklift operators. With Matthai Material Handling as your material handling partner, you can discover products tailored to your unique operational requirements. By investing in these additional accessories, you’re investing in a safer and more efficient environment for your workforce. Contact us today! Tuesday, March 18 2025
When it comes to priorities for factory and warehouse managers, we know safety, labor efficiency and productivity are all at the top. That’s why we’ve partnered with an organization with over 70 years of manufacturing excellence and innovation. With Taylor-Dunn electric utility vehicles, we can offer reliable, industry-leading material handling solutions that enhance workplace safety and efficiency. Electric utility vehicles manufactured by Taylor-Dunn are designed with your operations in mind. These vehicles provide an eco-friendly alternative to traditional gas-powered transport, reducing carbon emissions and operational costs. With Taylor-Dunn electric utility vehicles, you can efficiently move products, haul heavy loads, and easily maneuver personnel through your facility as safely as possible without jeopardizing productivity. Maximizing Efficiency with Taylor-Dunn Burden CarriersThe Taylor-Dunn burden carrier lineup is designed to handle heavy loads with ease, making them crucial in warehouse operations. These robust utility vehicles can transport large quantities of goods across vast warehouse floors, significantly reducing the time and labor required for manual handling. In addition to their load-carrying capabilities, Taylor-Dunn vehicles are engineered for efficiency, maneuverability in tight spaces, and operator comfort. All-weather cabs and dash-integrated heat offerings for the Bigfoot product line offer operators protection and comfort in even the toughest conditions. With powerful electric motors, Bigfoot utility vehicles also come standard with an onboard charger compatible with single-phase traditional 110V or 220V outlets— reducing the need for charging infrastructure changes or significant investment. By integrating burden carriers into your warehousing operations, you can streamline material handling processes and increase overall productivity. Streamlining Stock Management with Taylor-Dunn StockchasersEfficient stock management is essential for maximizing productivity and order accuracy. Taylor-Dunn stockchasers help streamline warehouse operations by enabling faster order picking, restocking, and material transport. Their compact design allows them to navigate narrow aisles and tight spaces effortlessly, which is essential in high-density storage environments. By reducing the time employees spend walking back and forth, stock chasers can significantly speed up the order fulfillment process while improving accuracy. This efficiency not only enhances worker productivity but also improves order accuracy and fulfillment speed. This increased efficiency can lead to faster turnaround times, higher customer satisfaction, and a more productive workforce Enhancing Employee Mobility with Taylor-Dunn Personnel CarriersPersonnel carriers from Taylor-Dunn transport employees quickly and safely across large warehouse facilities. These vehicles are ideal for providing safe transportation for supervisors, maintenance staff, and other personnel. This allows your team to move more efficiently between different areas of the warehouse, minimizing downtime and improving operational flow. By providing a reliable mode of transport for employees, personnel carriers help reduce worker fatigue and increase productivity. Their ergonomic design and safety features ensure a comfortable ride, which is crucial for maintaining employee well-being and morale. Prioritizing Safety and Durability with Taylor-Dunn Electric Utility VehiclesSafety and durability are non-negotiables in warehousing operations, and Taylor-Dunn electric utility vehicles are built with these principles in mind. These vehicles come equipped with safety features such as emergency off switches, shutoff timers, and ergonomic controls to reduce safety-related injuries and improve operator comfort. Build to withstand the rigors of daily use, Taylor-Dunn vehicles reduce the need for frequent repairs and replacement. Over time, this translates to lower total cost of ownership. Our Taylor-Dunn products are available at our branches in Baltimore, MD, and Lancaster, PA, as well as our Fraza and Vitan Equipment branches. Contact us today to start incorporating this equipment in your operations! Tuesday, February 25 2025
Automation is transforming the way businesses operate, pushing industries to rethink efficiency. In the material handling sector, this shift is especially evident as innovations in warehouse automation continue to evolve. At Matthai Material Handling, we support our customers by taking a holistic approach to optimize their warehouse operations – from equipment fleets and racking systems to shelving and loading docks. According to the 2025 Automation Solutions Study by Modern Materials Handling, 42% of participants reported using a blend of automated and manual processes in their warehouse operations. This growing trend signals a clear movement toward embracing automation across the industry. Partnering with the right material handling expert allows you to address key challenges in your warehouse, introducing automation that boosts efficiency, enhances safety, and positively impacts your bottom line. Here are a few of the common challenges our customers are facing, and how automation can provide effective solutions: Labor ShortagesLabor shortages continue to be a significant hurdle for many warehouses. However, automation presents an opportunity to look at your operations differently. Repetitive tasks in warehouse operations not only demand labor but are also vulnerable to inefficiencies, safety risks, and equipment damage. Automation helps maintain smooth operations even during staffing shortages, while enhancing workplace safety. By reducing reliance on manual labor, businesses allow employees to focus on more high-value tasks, improving job satisfaction and reducing turnover. Equipment DowntimeWhile a well-executed service plan can go a long way in reducing downtime, automation technology can significantly elevate the performance of your fleet. Lithium-ion-powered forklifts and automated vehicles are setting a new benchmark for efficiency in material handling. These advanced systems offer safety, predictability, and improved productivity in complex industrial environments. With automation seamlessly integrated into your operations, not only will safety improve, but the impact of equipment downtime and staffing challenges will be significantly reduced. Inefficient Racking and Shelving LayoutsEven with improvements to labor efficiency and fleet management, inefficient racking and shelving layouts can still hinder warehouse performance. A well-designed racking system is crucial to maximizing storage space. Automation has a key role to play here too. Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS) can optimize storage by reducing the need for wide aisles and allowing for more compact configurations. Customizable racking solutions can be tailored to the types of materials stored and how frequently they are accessed, enhancing both storage capacity and workflow. Plus, automated systems can be integrated to further streamline these processes The Future of Warehouse AutomationAs we move forward, the future of warehousing is undoubtedly driven by continued advancements in automation technology. If your business hasn’t yet started implementing automated solutions, now is the time to catch up. The growing trend of automation in warehouses is set to make operations more efficient, adaptable, and capable of handling future challenges. At Matthai Material Handling, we’re committed to helping your business navigate this evolution. We’ll assist you in choosing the right automated products that align with your needs, driving efficiency, safety, and profitability. Reach out to us today and consult with one of our material handling experts to start optimizing your warehouse operations! Tuesday, January 21 2025
Forklifts are essential tools in warehouses and distribution centers, enabling the movement of heavy items and supporting efficient operations. However, with the use of heavy machinery comes significant risk and often people become complacent. Over time, various myths and misunderstandings about forklift and warehouse safety have led to unsafe practices. As safety director and operator training manager, we believe it is vital to address these misconceptions to promote a safer work environment and prevent accidents due to complacency. Here are some of the most common myths about forklift and warehouse safety, and we'll dig into the facts behind them. Myth 1: "Forklifts are easy to operate and don’t need specialized training." Reality: Although forklifts may seem straightforward to operate, they are complex, heavy machines that require specialized training. Operating a forklift involves navigating tight spaces, lifting heavy loads, and adhering to safety protocols to prevent accidents and damage. Operators must be trained to understand the equipment's controls, load limits, and safety procedures. OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) requires that forklift operators receive formal training and certification before operating a forklift. Without proper training, operators face risks such as tipping, collisions, and other forms of avoidable damage. Forklift training teaches operators how to handle emergencies, stack and unstack items correctly, and perform pre-operation inspections. Insufficient training can result in costly errors and injuries. Myth 2: "Warehouse safety is only the forklift operator’s responsibility." Reality: While forklift operators are key to warehouse safety, the responsibility extends to everyone in the warehouse, including supervisors, managers, maintenance staff, and even pedestrians. Everyone should be well-versed in safety procedures. Effective communication, proper signage, and adherence to safety standards are vital for maintaining a safe work environment. Failing to follow safety measures increases the likelihood of accidents. Employees should be trained to avoid areas with forklift traffic and stay clear of blind spots. Supervisors need to consistently enforce safety rules and ensure that everyone—regardless of their role—follows established safety guidelines. A comprehensive safety approach involves the participation of all workers. Myth 3: "Forklifts are most dangerous when driven at high speeds." Reality: Forklifts can be hazardous even at low speeds, particularly if the operator is not observing proper safety protocols. While excessive speed can contribute to loss of control, many accidents happen at slower speeds, especially in tight spaces where maneuvering is more challenging. To prevent accidents, operators must remain alert and follow safe driving practices, regardless of speed. This includes using proper techniques for lifting and lowering loads, maintaining a low fork position while moving, and avoiding sharp turns to prevent tipping. Myth 4: "Pedestrians are safe as long as they stay out of the forklift’s path." Reality: Simply staying out of a forklift’s path doesn’t guarantee safety for pedestrians. Forklifts have blind spots where operators cannot see pedestrians or other obstacles. Limited visibility—especially when the forklift is carrying a load—can increase the risk of accidents. Additionally, the noise level in warehouses may prevent pedestrians from hearing approaching forklifts. To improve pedestrian safety, warehouses should implement clearly marked walkways, barriers, and traffic signals. Pedestrians should wear high-visibility clothing and avoid walking in forklift zones. Operators can use horns, mirrors, and cameras to improve their awareness and help prevent accidents. Myth 5: "A forklift can typically handle loads heavier than its capacity." Reality: Overloading a forklift or carrying an improperly balanced load significantly increases the risk of tipping. A forklift's stability depends on various factors, such as the weight and distribution of the load, as well as speed. Exceeding the forklift’s capacity or loading it incorrectly makes the vehicle less stable, especially when turning or traveling on uneven ground. Ignoring load limits compromises the safety of the operator, nearby workers, and pedestrians. Making Safety a Priority in Your Warehouse Operations Misunderstandings about forklift and warehouse safety can lead to dangerous and costly practices. Proper training, clear safety protocols, and a commitment to creating a safe environment are critical to preventing accidents and injuries. By debunking these common myths and educating all workers on the right safety practices, warehouses can foster a safer and more efficient workplace. We offer forklift operator trianing to make sure your team is properly trained and equipped with the skills they need to operate safely. For more information on our OSHA-certified forklift operator training, visit our training page. Tuesday, September 10 2024
One of the most prominent features of the Linde product is the Hydrostatic drive system. Leading-edge forklift truck engineering is inseparably linked to the Linde hydrostatic drive concept. And not surprisingly, it is acknowledged as the ultimate drive system and is superior to all others. It achieves maximum lift truck performance. Linde has refined the hydrostatic drive to match the working conditions encountered by modern-day forklifts and perfecting it to meet every requirement for handling ease, durability, efficiency, and ergonomic operation. See how it works in this video. The benefits of this drive system include: 1. Smooth and Continuous Power
2. Increased Efficiency and Productivity
3. Reduced Wear and Tear
4. Lower Maintenance Costs
5. Energy Efficiency
6. Operator Comfort
7. Improved Safety
Linde's hydrostatic drive transmission improves operational efficiency, reduces maintenance costs, increases operator comfort, and enhances safety, making it an attractive option for forklifts used in high-demand environments. Visit our Linde forklifts showroom to see the class 4 and class 5 (cushion and pneumatic tire) models that feature hydrostatic drive. For a demo, please contact us at 410-344-1801 in Baltimore Metro and 717-288-6111 in Central PA. Thursday, July 25 2024
We’ve written about what you can do to avoid overheating of your forklift’s engine. Now let’s discuss the damage that can occur if you allow it to happen. Heat can significantly affect the performance and longevity of a forklift engine. Here are some potential effects:
To mitigate these effects, it’s important to perform regular maintenance, ensure proper cooling, and monitor the engine’s temperature closely, especially during hot weather conditions. Learn more about Planned Maintenance by Matthai Material Handling. Monday, May 13 2024
Ensuring that warehouse employees stay cool during the summer is of paramount importance for several reasons.
Additionally, a cool working environment demonstrates care and consideration for employees’ welfare, fostering a positive work culture and improving employee retention. By investing in measures to keep warehouse employees cool, businesses can enhance productivity, reduce absenteeism, and create a more supportive and conducive work environment for their teams. Things you can do to help cool your warehouse and employees this summer include:
Equipment you can install and items you can purchase to help minimize heat in your material handling and warehousing operation include:
Choosing the right combination of equipment based on your warehouse’s size, layout, climate, and specific cooling needs can significantly improve working conditions during the summer months. Visit OSHA’s Heat Illness Prevention website to learn more about heat awareness and what you can do to prevent heat illness in your workforce this summer. Having a happy, healthy workforce is key to long-term productivity and performance. Tuesday, March 26 2024
With warehouse and storage space at a premium, more companies are looking for alternatives to increasing their footprint by expanding current space or purchasing new space. Sometimes a reach truck can be the perfect solution to increasing space, and productivity in your material handling and storage operation. While a reach truck is not suited for all operations, where it can be used, provides three significant benefits.
For a consultation about the possibility of a reach truck for your operation, and how it might benefits, please Contact Us or give us a call at 410-344-1801. |
