A custom painted forklift is more than just a machine with a fresh coat of paint – it is a mobile billboard for your brand, a tool for fleet identification, and a way to boost employee morale. From a simple corporate color scheme to a fully branded design, custom paint jobs are increasingly popular for businesses of all sizes. This guide covers everything you need to know about custom painted forklifts, including options, service providers, and key considerations.
Why Custom Paint Your Forklift?
Custom painting offers several practical and branding benefits:
Brand Recognition: A forklift painted in your company's colors serves as a moving advertisement. Every time it moves through a facility or a job site, it reinforces your brand identity.
Fleet Organization: Color-coding your fleet by department, location, or function can improve efficiency and safety.
Increased Resale Value: A fresh, high-quality paint job can significantly increase the resale value of a used forklift.
Employee Morale and Pride: A well-maintained, custom-painted fleet can boost employee morale and present a professional image to clients and visitors.
Stand Out: A unique paint job helps your equipment stand out on a busy job site, making it easier to spot and identify.
Customization Options
Customization goes beyond just choosing a color. Here are the main options available:
Corporate Colors: A simple yet effective option. Manufacturers like Hyster and Western Equipment offer custom paint in company brand colors.
Full-Branded Designs: Incorporate logos, decals, and complex graphics. The Lilly Company, for example, has created custom designs for the University of Alabama, Auburn University, and other organizations.
Sports Team Themes: Some companies choose to paint their forklifts in the colors of their favorite local sports teams.
High-Visibility Colors: Bright colors like vibrant red or "striking" yellow can improve safety by making the forklift more visible in a busy warehouse.
Powder Coating: A more durable option than traditional paint, powder coating provides a tough, long-lasting finish that resists chipping and scratching.
Fleet Graphics and Wraps: High-definition equipment wraps are an alternative to paint, offering a wide range of design possibilities.
Service Providers
Several companies specialize in custom painting and branding for forklifts and heavy equipment:
Service Provider Services Offered Region
Hyster Custom paint jobs in corporate colors via their Special Products Engineering Department (SPED) Global
Western Equipment Custom paint to match a company's brand on their Prowler truck-mounted forklifts USA (Southern California)
The Lilly Company Custom paint, decals, logos, branding schemes, and high-definition equipment wraps Mid-South USA (AL, MS, TN, AR)
Southeast Industrial Equipment Custom paint jobs for branding or sports team themes Southeast USA
Equipment Repainting Services Inc. Specializes in painting construction and commercial equipment, including forklifts USA
L.A. Lift Services Offers painting and reconditioning services for forklifts USA
EZ Lift Services Provides painting and service for all forklift makes and models USA
Key Considerations
Before commissioning a custom paint job, keep the following in mind:
Paint Quality: Use high-quality industrial paint designed for heavy equipment. Choose a brand with non-flammable solvents and a high flash point (e.g., 100°F or more). Two-component epoxy or polyurethane systems are recommended for their durability and chemical resistance.
Safety During Painting: Ensure the painting area is well-ventilated. Wear appropriate safety gear, including a mask, paint goggles, and gloves. The forklift should not be running during painting or drying to prevent sparks or ignition of paint fumes.
Label Protection: Forklift nameplates and labels must not be painted over. Use tape to cover them before painting. These labels contain critical safety and operational information.
Surface Preparation: Proper surface preparation is crucial for a long-lasting finish. This includes cleaning the forklift thoroughly, removing grease and rust, sanding, and grinding. Battery terminals should be disconnected and taped.
Cost: The cost of a custom paint job varies widely depending on the complexity of the design, the size of the forklift, and the service provider. A basic paint job is a relatively simple customization, while full-branded designs with graphics will cost more. For accurate pricing, it is best to request a quote from a service provider.
Summary
Custom painting your forklift is a powerful way to enhance your brand, improve fleet management, and protect your equipment. From simple corporate colors to elaborate branded designs, the options are extensive. When planning a custom paint job, prioritize using high-quality, durable paint, follow all safety protocols, and protect critical labels. Many specialized service providers, such as Hyster, The Lilly Company, and Southeast Industrial Equipment, can bring your vision to life. For pricing and specific design consultations, contact a service provider directly.