For a manufacturer handling heavy rubber moulds, finished goods and outbound freight every day, materials handling equipment isn't a background consideration, it's central to how the business functions. Nepean Rubber & Plastics operates in a demanding production environment where reliability and control matter on every shift.
After years of relying on rental forklifts, the business recently took the step of investing in its own fleet, selecting a combination of Baoli KBG counterbalance forklifts and ER15 walkie stackers to support their operations.
Mithik Lakhani, Office Administrator at Nepean Rubber & Plastics, explains how the transition unfolded.
From Rental to Ownership
The limitations of long-term rental had been building for some time before the business decided to act. "We previously had a lot of rental forklifts," Mithik says. "Over time, it made more sense to invest in our own equipment."
Already familiar with Linde Material Handling through their rental fleet, the team approached Linde when exploring ownership options. That conversation introduced Baoli as a practical, budget-conscious alternative within the same trusted network.
"We approached Linde for a quote, and that's when Baoli was recommended as a more affordable and practical option for us," Mithik explains. "The terms and the service agreement were also very attractive, which made the decision easier."
A Fleet Built Around the Operation
The equipment selected reflects the varied nature of work across the Nepean Rubber & Plastics site. The Baoli KBG forklifts handle the heavier demands lifting metal moulds into presses, moving finished goods and loading trucks, while the ER15 pallet stackers take care of lighter internal movements.
"The pallet stackers are used for smaller movements, and because they don't require a forklift licence, more people in the team can use them," Mithik notes. "That makes things easier when we just need to move items quickly within the warehouse."
Complementing the Baoli fleet, a Linde MV01 order picker supports safe retrieval of items from upper shelving rounding out a flexible, responsive setup across the facility.
Smoother Operation, Less Damage
Operator feedback since the transition has been telling. The improvement in handling control has had a direct impact on day-to-day outcomes.
"The team has mentioned that these forklifts are much smoother to operate. They respond quicker and are easier to control compared to the older units."
That responsiveness has also reduced product damage, a meaningful gain in a facility handling heavy and often sensitive loads.
"With the previous forklifts, when they moved faster, they could jam or react unpredictably. That caused loads to shift or fall, which led to damage. Since switching, we've had less of that happening."
The Verdict
For Nepean Rubber & Plastics, the move from rental to ownership delivered exactly what the business needed: consistent performance, improved operator confidence, and equipment backed by a support network they already trusted.
As Mithik puts it: "If someone is considering switching to Baoli, I'd say it's the right choice."
Thinking about making the switch from rental to ownership? Talk to the Linde MH team about finding the right solution for your operation.