What is The Best Way to Store a Forklift Long-Term?

When you’re putting a forklift into long-term storage, it requires far more than simply backing it into a corner and covering it up. Whether you’re dealing with an electric forklift or a diesel forklift, proper preparation and storage ensures that when you return to work, you’ll find the machine ready, reliable and safe. Done right, long-term storage protects performance, prevents damage and extends the working life of your investment – meaning fewer surprises, less downtime, less maintenance and a machine that remains a productive part of your fleet rather than a hidden cost. 

Let’s explore why this matters, and how to do it properly.

Why Is Proper Forklift Storage Important?

Putting your forklift into storage without following the right steps can lead to problems. Consider the following reasons why long-term storage matters:

• Prevents corrosion, battery damage and tyre wear: A forklift left idle can develop rust on exposed metal parts, batteries can degrade and tyres may flatten or develop sidewall damage.
• Ensures the forklift is safe and ready for operation later: When you bring a forklift back into service, you want minimal ramp-up time and maximum confidence in its condition. Proper storage ensures you’re not greeted with leaks or sudden mechanical failures.
• Protects the company’s investment and reduces maintenance costs: At Linde MH, we emphasise reliability, durability and operator efficiency as core values. Our forklifts are engineered for a long working life and a lower whole-of-life cost.

By storing your forklift with care, you align with the reliability and safety standards we champion at Linde MH, ensuring that your fleet remains an asset, not a liability.

What Steps Should You Take Before Storing a Forklift Long-Term?

Before putting your forklift into storage, these key pre-storage preparations will ensure you’re not storing problems along with the machine. These steps apply to electric forklifts, diesel forklift and LPG models alike.

1. Clean thoroughly:

   • Remove dirt, grease and debris, especially around moving parts, hydraulics, mast and forks.

   • Ensure the under-carriage is clean because trapped grit can accelerate corrosion.

2. Inspect for damage:

   • Check hydraulic hoses, mast chains, forks and attachments for wear or damage.

   • Inspect tyres (or wheels) for cuts, damage or low pressure.

   • Check brakes and steering systems for normal operation.

3. Perform maintenance:

   • Top up all fluids: engine oil, hydraulic oil, coolant, transmission fluid (for engine-powered models).

   • Lubricate all moving parts, including mast rails, chains and pivot points.

   • Address minor repairs now rather than letting them worsen during storage.

4. Battery care (for electric forklifts):

   • Fully charge the battery and then safely disconnect it or put into manufacturer-recommended storage mode.

   • Note: For electric forklifts, it’s better to store the battery in a charge-maintained state to avoid deep discharge.

By following this checklist you’re setting your forklift up for a smooth restart when you bring it back into service.

How Should You Store Electric Forklifts Safely?

When storing electric forklifts, particular care is needed because of the battery and electrical systems. Here’s how to keep your electric forklifts in top condition during storage:

• Store in a dry, temperature-controlled environment: Avoid extremes of cold (which can reduce battery capacity) and heat (which can accelerate chemical degradation).
• Avoid exposure to moisture: Moisture can lead to corrosion or electrical problems.
• Disconnect the battery and check charge levels periodically: A battery left connected and unused may slowly self-discharge; best practice is to isolate and maintain charge as recommended.
• Keep the battery off the ground if recommended: Some manufacturers advise storing the battery on a rack or isolated surface to prevent discharge or moisture ingress.

For your electric forklift fleet, proper battery care is critical in storage; neglecting this can lead to reduced runtime, decreased lifespan and higher maintenance costs when you return to service.

How Should You Store Diesel Forklifts for Long-Term Use?

Storing a diesel forklift correctly demands attention to the fuel, engine systems and environmental protection. For your diesel forklift equipment, please observe the following:

• Fill the fuel tank to prevent condensation forming inside the tank: A full tank means less air space and therefore less internal moisture.
• Run the engine briefly every few weeks if possible: This helps circulate fluids, maintain seals and avoid stagnation of fuel or lubrication systems.
• Check oil, coolant and filters before storage and again on return to service: For a diesel forklift, the engine and associated systems must remain clean and sealed.
• If stored outdoors, cover the forklift or use a weather-proof shelter to protect from dust, sunlight and rain: UV exposure and weathering can degrade seats, hoses, tyres and external finishes.

These steps help ensure that your diesel forklift stays ready for work even after a long period of inactivity.

What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid When Storing a Forklift?

Even with the best of intentions mistakes happen. Here are common storage errors and how to prevent them:

• Leaving batteries connected for long periods: This can lead to self-discharge, sulphation (in lead-acid batteries) or excessive drain. Instead, disconnect the battery, maintain charge periodically and follow manufacturer guidelines.
• Ignoring tyre pressure and fluid levels: Tyres can develop flat spots, sidewall cracking or deflate; fluids can settle or degrade. Instead, check and maintain both.
• Storing in humid or unventilated spaces: Poor ventilation means moisture build-up and corrosion risk. Instead, choose dry, well-ventilated venues or use desiccants if needed.
• Failing to document maintenance schedules: Without record-keeping, you may return to a forklift that has been neglected or has an unknown maintenance history. Instead, log pre-storage checks, date of storage, periodic inspections and any maintenance performed.

Avoiding these pitfalls helps safeguard your forklift until it’s needed again.

How Often Should You Inspect a Forklift During Storage?

Storage isn’t “set-and-forget”. Regular inspections keep your forklift in top condition:

• For electric forklifts: Monthly battery checks, verify charge status, disconnect and reconnect if needed, check for any signs of corrosion or degradation.
• For diesel forklifts: Engine and tyre inspections every few weeks if possible and look for leaks, tyre condition, fluid levels and fuel condition.
• Re-lubricate parts every few weeks if the machine is stored for several months: This ensures pivot points, chains and hydraulics remain protected from corrosion and seizing.

Regular checks help you avoid costly repairs and ensure that when you’re ready to resume operations your forklift is ready as well.

Where can You Find Professional Forklift Maintenance and Support in Australia?

At Linde MH Australia, we don’t just supply high-quality forklifts; we provide expert maintenance, servicing and storage advice tailored for both electric forklifts and diesel forklift fleets. Our branches and extensive dealer network support:

• Servicing and spare parts: Our factory-trained technicians and efficient supply chain help minimise downtime.
• Long-term reliability and safety built-in: Linde MH forklifts are engineered for durability, fuel-efficiency and long service intervals.
• Advice on storage and maintenance: We can help you implement the correct steps for storing your forklift long-term so your investment continues to deliver value.

Whether you’re storing equipment for off-season periods, warehouse shutdowns or idle fleet time, contact Linde MH for professional guidance and support.

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