If you run a warehouse, manufacturing site, or logistics operation, you’ll know how much your forklift fleet affects your productivity. When your trucks are performing well, everything flows. When they don’t, you’re dealing with unexpected delays and unprecedented downtime.
But spotting the moment when “a few issues” turn into “it’s time to upgrade” isn’t always obvious. So, here are five practical signs that your fleet might be ready for something new.
1. You're noticing more breakdowns (and bigger bills):
Every fleet naturally needs maintenance, but there’s a point where those repair call-outs start to add up and not just in cost, but in lost time.
If you’re seeing:
- trucks off the floor more often
- recurring issues with hydraulics or engines
- increasing spend on parts
- or operators frequently reporting faults
It may be a sign your equipment is simply reaching the end of its economic life.
Many UK customers find that moving to newer models, such as the Mitsubishi GRENDiA ES for IC engines or the EDiA electric range, instantly reduces unplanned downtime and stabilises running costs.
2. Fuel or battery performance isn't what it used to be
Another subtle sign is energy efficiency. Older diesel or LPG forklifts often become less fuel-efficient over time, while ageing electric trucks can lose battery capacity.
If you’ve noticed your trucks needing:
- more frequent refuelling
- slower charging recovery
- shorter run times
That’s your fleet telling you it’s slipping.
With more UK sites shifting towards electric, trucks like the Mitsubishi EDiA EX with lithium-ion options offer longer working hours and significantly reduced energy costs - a big win for both budgets and sustainability goals!
3. Safety features are starting to feel outdated
Safety standards move fast and if your fleet is older, it may be missing features now considered standard across modern UK operations.
For example, Mitsubishi forklifts now come with technologies such as:
- Integrated Presence System (IPS2), preventing operation unless the driver is correctly seated
- Intelligent cornering, automatically adjusting speed
- Enhanced stability systems and improved visibility
If your team is having to work around older safety limitations, not with them, upgrading could offer immediate operational improvements and peace of mind.
4. Your operation has changed, but your trucks haven't
A common situation across UK warehouses is that the business has grown, stock has changed, aisles have been re-racked, or shifts are longer, but the fleet is the same.
If you’re finding:
- turning is tight
- lift heights no longer match your racking
- workload has increased
- operators struggle with precision in narrow aisles
It’s worth reassessing whether your fleet still fits your site.
Compact models like the Mitsubishi EDiA EM are ideal for tighter UK warehouse layouts, while larger trucks like the EDiA XL offer power and comfort for demanding, high-shift environments.
5. Sustainability targets are becoming more important
Across the UK, more businesses are switching to electric forklifts to cut emissions, reduce noise, and lower long-term running costs. Even companies who historically relied on diesel or LPG are now re-evaluating.
If your business has net-zero goals, local environmental commitments, or simply wants cleaner indoor air quality, upgrading to electric could make an immediate impact.
Mitsubishi’s electric ranges deliver zero exhaust emissions and help future-proof your operations, especially in urban or indoor-heavy sites.
Thinking about upgrading? Here's the bottom line.
You don’t need to wait for a breakdown to decide your fleet is ready for a refresh.
If any of these points feel familiar, it might be worth reviewing your fleet plan. Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks offers a full UK-wide support network from site surveys and cost comparisons to flexible finance and long-term servicing.
Upgrading isn’t just about new equipment. It’s about keeping your operation safe, productive, and ready for whatever’s next.
If you're interested in discussing what options are available for your business, get in touch via the Greenline on 0845 3713048 or complete our contact form.
