PiggyBack Truck Mounted Forklift
Competitive Comparison

When you are shopping for a truck mounted forklift, there are many makes and models available for comparison. In the near future, this section of the site will have specific comparisons between the various makes and models of PiggyBack Forklifts. Here are a few key things to compare when shopping for a truck mounted forklift. It is Princeton's goal to be a competitive manufacturer, and to provide products to the highest safety and performance standards.

Safety & ANSI Standards

ANSI standards are developed to give manufacturers a guideline for safety, stability and performance for the US market. Unfortunately, some manufacturers don't meet these important standards, or interpret them in the different way. Therefore, when comparing units, ask for ANSI certification of the following subjects:

Lift Capacity

For rough terrain forklifts, ANSI specifies a 6 percent forward angle when measuring capacity. This simulates true jobsite situations,which are often not on even ground. Some manufacturers ignore this, and rate capacities on even ground. Ask for the specifics on this rating. For example, a PB50 will lift 5,500lb on even ground, but Princeton rates it at 5,000lb to be within this ANSI limit.

Stability

ANSI specifies a lateral (sideways) stability of 40% slope for rough terrain forklifts. Some manufacturers don't meet or barely meet this crucial standard. Ask for the specifics. The PB50 is rated +50%, which makes it the most stable unit in the industry

Weight

Weight is crucial for truck mounted forklifts, since this is deducted from a truck or trailer's payload. It is also crucial to know the true weight when specifying a truck or trailer. Unfortunately, some manufacturers don't specify the true weight on their specification sheets. They measure their units without forks, full size tires (sealing), fluids or even mast. Always, ask for an "as delivered" weight units weigh up to 1,000 Lb more, which is not true.

Beyond Performance^®

To really compare the rough terrain performance between the various forklifts, you should do this on a job site, not a parking lot. All 3WD units on the market will slide on the forks, when engaging traction control. This doesn't give a good idea of the true performance, since the front part is the lightest area of 3 wheel designed unit. 31" tires and a 40+ HP engine is also not a guarantee for performance. The hydraulic system and traction control system is just as important for your comparison. For example, some manufacturers specify their units with a 40+HP engine, 31"x15" tires, and small displacement (class 3) wheel motors. The leading wheel motor manufacturer advises more expensive and most powerful MSE05 Class 5 wheel motors for 31" tires. Therefore, the performance is significantly different on slopes and real rough terrain situations.

Roll Over Protection

Currently, ANSI requires a FOPS protection for the operator for any exceeding a 72" lift height. FOPS stands for Falling Objects Protection Standard. This rating means that the overhead guard is rated for a falling load. Most accidents happen with rollovers. First, Princeton offers the most stable units in the industry. Second, Princeton is the only manufacturer that offers a full ROPS. ROPS stands for Roll Over Protection Standard. Ask for the standards of the units you are comparing.

Double Stacked Unloading

Some manufacturers are using a boom system versus a regular mast. If you are in the drywall or lumber business, you will most likely double-stack your product on the truck or trailer. When a boom is used, the top layer(s) can only be unloaded with the forks tilted back on a 45 degree angle. Especially when unloading long or slick materials, this can be hard. This is the main reason why booms are not used on regular forklifts. Do a demonstration in your yard or job site to compare this with regular mast units.

Double Reach™

Princeton offers true Double Reach™ on the D and PB series units. It combines a moving mast with a scissors reach. Some manufacturers are trying to accomplish the same with hydraulic or mechanical extension forks. Check the thickness and durability of these forks. The Princeton system is tested and proven. When you are comparing a Double Reach™ Princeton with a boom mast unit, realize that the maximum capacity of the boom unit is 2,500lb. The Princeton Forklift can lean the mast against the truck bed. This gives a maximum capacity of 5,000lb, at the other side of the truck bed. This is done without overstressing components.

Mounting System and Truck/Trailer Advice

Princeton is the only manufacturer that offers the EZ Hitch® mounting system. This system offers 3 point safety: Hook, Pin & slack safety chain. Most other manufacturers offer one or maybe 2 points of safety, typically by a ratchet binder or chain. It is also very important that you get proper mounting advice before you buy a new truck/trailer or start working on your existing equipment . Princeton has a dedicated staff to assist you with technical mounting advice.

Parts & Service

Princeton has a dedicated staff for all your parts & service needs, and have the largest service coverage in the nation with over 100 service locations. A full time trainer ensures that your local dealer is skilled and has up-to-date knowledge of Princeton Equipment.

Compare Apples to Apples

To "Make sure that you get all the proper advice for your application and test/compare the equipment on a jobsite, rather that a parking lot. Princeton and it's local dealer can arrange a thorough demonstration of our equipment at the jobsite, to verify that it meets your needs and expectations.

For more competitive comparison specifics, please contact us: sales@piggy-back.com