When it comes to material handling in the woodworking and industrial sectors, choosing the right equipment can make all the difference. J.G. Kelly Supplies in Monaghan, Ireland, offers a perfect example. Their first-ever Combilift C-Series forklift has been in continuous operation for 28 years, revolutionising the way the company handles long loads while maintaining exceptional safety standards.
Before adopting the Combilift, moving long PVC stillages of up to six metres through narrow four-metre doorways presented serious challenges. Conventional counterbalance forklifts struggled to manage these oversized loads safely. Loading and unloading required reversing lorries onto busy town roads, creating both safety risks and operational inefficiencies.
The arrival of the multi-directional C-Series solved these issues. Its sideways movement capability allowed operators to navigate tight spaces and narrow doorways with control and stability. This feature drastically reduced the need for extra labour while minimising traffic disruption, streamlining day-to-day operations. Operators could now offload containers quickly and safely, transforming workflow efficiency and workplace safety.
An integrated platform further enhances the machine’s stability when handling long products. Operators can securely support lengthy stillages during transport, reducing risks associated with moving oversized loads. This has led to fewer accidents and greater confidence among staff, while pedestrians and passing vehicles benefit from improved on-site safety.
The forklift’s longevity is equally impressive. Despite multiple conventional forklifts being replaced over the decades, the original C-Series remains in operation. Its robust engineering, combined with preventative maintenance, has kept it running smoothly for nearly three decades. Routine checks of oil, coolant, hydraulics, tyres, and greasing, alongside minor repairs like timing belt and filter changes, have ensured consistent performance. Major repairs have been rare, demonstrating the machine’s durability and quality design.
The long-standing performance of this forklift has influenced J.G. Kelly’s approach to fleet expansion. Following the success of the C-Series, the company added more Combilift models, including the pedestrian Combi-CS and an Aisle Master at their Limerick warehouse. Each machine is customised to meet specific operational needs, such as mast height and weight capacity, proving the value of purpose-built solutions over generic equipment.
For operators, the result is a less labour-intensive and safer workflow. Tasks that previously required multiple staff members can now be handled efficiently by a single trained operator. Time spent unloading containers has decreased, and the risk of accidents has been mitigated thanks to the C-Series’ stability and multi-directional capabilities.
Nearly three decades on, the original Combilift C-Series stands as a testament to the importance of investing in the right material handling solution. Its enduring presence highlights the advantages of tailored engineering, preventative maintenance, and thoughtful design. By combining safety, efficiency, and reliability, J.G. Kelly Supplies has set a benchmark for long-term operational excellence in the material handling industry.
In an era where operational efficiency and workplace safety are paramount, the story of this 28-year-old Combilift demonstrates that purpose-built equipment can deliver exceptional returns, minimise risk, and remain relevant across decades of industry evolution.
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