Did you know that projections show that the global elevator market will reach a value of $132.08 billion by 2029?
With such exponential growth, it’s no wonder that businesses around the world are looking for the perfect commercial freight elevator to elevate their operations. However, buying a freight elevator can be a daunting task.
But worry not. Below is the ultimate commercial freight elevator guide to help you make the right choice
Understanding the Differences: Commercial, Industrial, and Residential Freight Elevators
When it comes to freight elevators, there are key differences to consider based on their purpose and application. Keep reading to find out.
Commercial Freight Elevators
Commercial freight elevators often fit in commercial buildings such as office complexes, hotels, and retail centers. Their load capacity can range from 2,000 to 20,000 pounds or more.
They’re usually larger compared to residential elevators. Additionally, they contain spacious cabins to accommodate bulky items.
Industrial Freight Elevators
Industrial freight elevators are primarily found in manufacturing plants, warehouses, and more. They’re designed to handle heavy-duty tasks often exceeding 20,000 pounds.
These elevators may have specific configurations such as double-entry doors, conveyor systems, and multi-level loading platforms. It helps facilitate efficient material handling within industrial settings.
Residential (Multifamily) Freight Elevators
Residential freight elevators are for use in residential buildings with multiple units. They often have lower load capacities compared to commercial and industrial elevators. Additionally, they occupy less space within the building thanks to their smaller cabins.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Commercial Freight Elevator
Buying the right commercial freight elevator is an important decision. It can significantly impact the efficiency and productivity of your business. Here are key factors you should consider when selecting a new freight elevator for your business:
Load Capacity
The load capacity of a freight elevator is the maximum weight that the elevator can safely carry. When choosing a freight elevator, consider the heaviest loads that you will be transporting. For heavy loads, pick an elevator with a high load capacity.
If you’re a small business that only transports light loads, an elevator with a lower load capacity may be ideal.
Ensure the elevator you choose has a load capacity that is at least 1.5 times the weight of the heaviest load that you will be transporting. It allows for future growth and potential load changes in your business operations.
Platform Size
When getting a commercial freight elevator, consider the platform size. This refers to the area of the platform that is available for loading and unloading. Make sure that the platform is large enough to accommodate the size of your loads.
The platform size of around 15 square feet is suitable for most common loads. But the size can vary depending on your business’s needs. To determine the right platform size, assess the size of the elevator car and shaft.
Also, evaluate the weight of the goods you need to transport. Heavier goods will need a freight elevator with a large platform size.
Vertical Travel Distance
The vertical travel distance plays a vital role when it buying a freight elevator for your commercial building. If your business operates in a multi-story building, choose an elevator that can efficiently transport goods to the required floor levels.
Assess the elevator’s lifting mechanism, motor power, and controls. It will help ensure that your elevator is well-suited for the desired travel distance.
A robust lifting mechanism eliminates the risk of damage when transporting your goods. The motor power should smoothly propel the elevator car, regardless of the cargo weight capacity it carries.
Freight Elevator Speed
Time is of the essence in commercial operations. This is why finding an elevator with an appropriate speed is vital. The faster you can move cargo around your facility, the more productive your business will be.
For example, to transport a load that is 100 feet high, an elevator that travels at 100 feet per minute will only take 1 minute. For an elevator that travels at 50 feet per minute, it will take 2 minutes. While it may not seem like a big difference, it can add up over time.
If you have a high volume of freight traffic, a high-speed freight elevator is a must-have. It will help keep your operations running smoothly.
Safety Features
Safety should be a top priority when shopping for a commercial freight elevator. Look for advanced safety mechanisms such as:
- Emergency stop buttons: These buttons should stop the elevator immediately
- Interlocks: Prevents the elevator from moving if the doors aren’t properly closed
- Door sensors: Detect when the doors are open or closed
- Emergency communication systems: Allow communication during emergencies
- Overload protection: Prevents the elevator from overloading
- Pit protection: Stops the elevator from falling into the pit if the cables break
- Fire suppression system: Extinguishes a fire in the elevator car
Apart from these safety features, ensure that the elevator complies with relevant safety codes and regulations. It will help ensure your employees’ safety and the protection of your cargo.
Durability and Maintenance
Commercial freight elevators are subjected to heavy usage. This is why durability is crucial. Opt for elevators constructed with high-quality materials. Ensure the material can withstand constant movement and wear and tear during daily operations.
The cargo you carry and frequency of use will impact its resilience. Also, the environment of your elevator can affect its durability. For instance, an elevator used in a humid environment will need to be corrosion-resistant.
Additionally, consider the availability of maintenance and repair services. Choose an elevator that is easy to maintain. It will help reduce costs.
Customization Options
Every business has unique requirements. Ensure your business freight elevator can be customized to meet your specific needs. Consider the available customization options, such as cabin size, door configurations, and control systems.
This flexibility ensures that the elevator can seamlessly integrate into your existing infrastructure. What’s more, evaluate the customizations for future expansion. If your business is likely to grow, find the best freight elevator that allows for easy upgrades.
Find the Best Commercial Freight Elevator for Your Business
Choosing the right commercial freight elevator is a critical decision. To make the right choice, consider the aforementioned factors such as load capacity, safety features, and more.
When it comes to buying the best commercial freight elevator, Murphy Elevator Company is a trusted name in the industry. We offer the best in service and equipment. Contact us to learn more.
