Why Preventative Maintenance Pays for Itself

Save Money by Being Proactive

In the world of material handling, there’s a common temptation to adopt the “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” mentality. When your fleet is running and the warehouse is humming, pulling a forklift off the floor for a checkup can feel like an unnecessary cost that interrupts operations.

However, viewing maintenance as a cost that can wait often leads to a much higher cost beyond the repair bill. In reality, preventative maintenance (PM) is an investment that pays for itself in increased safety, improved productivity, and a boost to your bottom line.

The Hidden Costs of “Run-to-Fail”

Waiting for a machine to break before calling a technician creates a domino effect of expenses that far exceed the price of a simple oil change or inspection:

• Emergency Repair Premiums: Last-minute service calls often come with expedited shipping for parts and higher labor costs.
• Unplanned Downtime: When a critical piece of equipment goes down unexpectedly, your entire workflow halts. The cost of idle operators and missed shipping deadlines can reach thousands of dollars per hour.
• Reduced Asset Lifespan: Small issues, like a clogged filter or a worn belt, force the engine and hydraulics to work harder. Over time, this “stress” knocks years off the life of your equipment.
• Safety Risks: A neglected braking system or a frayed hydraulic hose isn’t just a maintenance issue—it’s a massive liability and a danger to your team.

The Benefits of Staying Ahead

Reportedly, the cost of acquiring a lift truck is only about 20% of the total ownership cost you will incur over its effective life. Now is the best time to protect the remaining 80% of your lift truck investment with an MH Equipment Maintenance Plan. Consistent, scheduled maintenance transforms your operation from reactive to proactive. Here is how it can save you money:

1. Predictable Budgeting

With a preventative plan, you can forecast your maintenance costs. For example, you can avoid the sticker shock of a pricey transmission overhaul with regular maintenance that catches wear and tear before it becomes a bigger problem.

2. Optimized Fuel and Power Efficiency

A well-tuned machine runs more efficiently. Whether you’re running internal combustion or electric, PM ensures you’re getting the maximum “work” out of every drop of fuel or every kilowatt-hour.

3. Higher Resale Value

When it eventually comes time to trade in or sell your equipment, a documented service history is gold. By proving to the buyer that the machine has been cared for, you increase your machine’s resale value.

MH Equipment offers two standard maintenance plan packages, the Basic Periodic Maintenance Plan and the Total Maintenance Plan.

With the Basic plan, you protect your investment by ensuring your equipment receives the recommended maintenance at the recommended intervals. This plan covers basic maintenance with a fixed rate per service.

If you are looking for the most comprehensive coverage you can get for your equipment, MH Equipment’s Total Maintenance Plan covers all maintenance and repairs with a fixed monthly fee for the life of the agreement (terms of 12-72 months).

*Excludes avoidable damage and tires.

Why should you choose an MH Equipment Maintenance Plan?

Maintaining a fleet is a full-time job, and you have a business to run. That’s where we come in. At MH Equipment, we don’t just fix things when they break; we partner with you to ensure they stay running.

Our customized preventive maintenance programs are designed to fit your specific application—whether you’re running a single shift in a clean warehouse or 24/7 in a rugged brickyard. Our factory-trained technicians spot the “small stuff” before it becomes a big problem, keeping your fleet—and your budget—on track.

Schedule a preventative maintenance checkup with our experts.

MH Equipment is one of the largest material dealers in the United States, with 30 + locations and more than 1,100 employees serving customers in 10 upper Midwest and Eastern states. Our mission is to deliver exceptional service in material handling equipment sales, service, rental, certification & training, and engineering. From complete fleet management to warehouse design, vehicle sales to roadside response, our experts are here to serve your needs. For more information, contact us here.