The ease of use of Toyota forklifts has led a warehousing and logistics training provider to purchase its first Toyota forklift, with more Toyota and Raymond forklift equipment on order over the next few months.
Sydney-based Tag Training recently took delivery of a Toyota 8FG 1.8-tonne counterbalance forklift to use in its warehousing and logistics training courses. It also has a Toyota 7FBE 1.5-tonne counterbalance forklift and a BT OSE250 electric pallet jack on long-term loan, with a Raymond 5200 order picker arriving shortly. The intention is for Tag Training to eventually run an all-Toyota fleet nationwide.
Tag Training business manager Trent Ruddiman said the decision to change to Toyota Material Handling Australia (TMHA) supplied equipment over the company's previous brand was largely due to the ease of operation and his past experience with the product within the industry.
"I operated Toyota forklifts for many years when I worked in distribution centres and always found them to be very well built and reliable," Trent said.
"In my current role as business manager of Tag Training I believe they're the best machines for our clients to learn on: they're much easier and more intuitive to use than most other brands I've come across.
"The safety features are also great for us, like the OPS (Operator Presence Sensing system) that can sense if the operator isn't in the usual travelling position and cuts off power," Trent said.
Ease of use features on Toyota's 8-Series forklifts include a height selector that simplifies load handling operation, a shock sensor that detects and sends a warning of an imminent collision, and a PIN code entry system that prevents unauthorised people from operating the forklift.
"Another benefit is that they're widely used in the warehousing and logistics industry, so there's an advantage in offering the Toyota brand for training purposes when there's a good chance our clients will be using them in the workplace."
Trent said that while the demands placed on the Toyota forklifts in the training environment are different to what they would be in the field, the quality and durability of the Toyota forklifts is still a plus.
"The forklifts probably aren't worked as hard as they might be on the job, but they are used consistently, and by inexperienced operators. We've found the Toyotas are by far the best ones for the job."
TMHA area sales manager Corey Denford said the application of the Toyota forklifts in a training environment was an example of the range of purposes the Toyota forklift equipment is suited to.
"It's great to see Toyota forklifts delivering in the training environment, and it's pleasing to hear that the simplicity of layout and ease of operation is a big plus for those learning how to operate the equipment.
"We look forward to enjoying a long relationship with Tag Training and taking care of their material handling equipment needs for many years to come," Corey said.
Since 2009 Tag Training has offered a wide range of industry-specific training courses at its purpose-built training facilities at St Marys in Sydney's west and in south-east Brisbane. It also conducts on-site training for clients at their own premises.
"We offer comprehensive and practical training packages and cover all facets of supply chain management, ensuring we use up to date equipment and technology for warehouse operations, driving operations, licensing and preparation for industry employment," Trent said.
"We strive to deliver confidence, not just competence, through practical solutions and practical training."
Tag Training and their Toyota Material Handling forklifts