Cold Storage Forklifts Guide

Quick Facts: Cold Storage Forklifts

• Cold temps drain batteries, crack seals, and slow down forklifts
• Standard forklifts aren’t built for freezer use
• Freezer forklifts use special batteries, fluids, and sealed electronics
• Heated cabs improve safety and comfort in deep-freeze workspaces
• Thompson Lift Truck offers models made for cold storage operations

Working in cold storage comes with its own challenges, and not just for your crew. Freezers, coolers, and refrigerated warehouses are tough places for forklifts to operate. Cold storage forklifts face unique challenges like freezing temps, low battery performance, and condensation damage.

If you’re using a regular forklift in freezing temperatures, you’ve probably already seen the warning signs: slower lifts, more breakdowns, and shorter run times. That’s because standard forklifts just aren’t designed for those conditions.

Why Standard Forklifts Don’t Work in Cold Environments

Most warehouses hover around 65-75°F. But cold storage facilities can dip well below zero. Some freezers go as low as -20°F or colder.

When forklifts enter that kind of space, a few things happen fast:

• Batteries lose charge quicker

• Hydraulic oil thickens, slowing down movement

• Rubber hoses and seals start cracking

• Moisture gets trapped, then freezes, damaging wires and sensors

If your forklift moves between warm and cold zones, say, from a loading dock into a freezer, condensation forms. That moisture can freeze inside components, damaging parts you can’t easily see.

In short, using the wrong forklift in cold storage can cost you more in repairs and downtime.

What to Look for in a Cold Storage Forklift

Not all forklifts are freezer-friendly, but the right models are built to survive and perform in freezing conditions.

Here’s what sets them apart:

Battery Systems Made for the Cold

Electric forklifts in cold storage need insulated battery compartments and cold-tolerant chargers. Some setups include heated battery packs or charging stations in warmer areas to help keep batteries strong and long-lasting.

Hydraulic Fluids and Grease That Won’t Freeze

Cold-rated forklifts use low-viscosity fluids that stay thin even in freezing temperatures. That means smooth operation without the sluggish response you’d get from standard fluids.

Sealed Electronics and Components

To avoid frozen wires and water damage, freezer forklifts come with sealed connectors, enclosed motors, and waterproof sensors. Some models even include heated controllers to keep systems working in sub-zero temps.

Heated Cabs for Operator Comfort

When forklifts work in the cold, operators do too. Heated cabs, defrosters, and even heated seats are available on many cold storage models. Better comfort = better focus and fewer mistakes.

Best Forklifts for Freezer Environments

At Thompson Lift Truck, we carry several models built for cold storage from brands like Hyundai, Crown, and Combilift. Depending on your space and setup, here are some options to consider:

• Electric Counterbalance Forklifts with cold storage packages

• Reach Trucks for narrow aisles in freezer warehouses

• Pallet Jacks built with cold-rated grease and components

• Combilift Multidirectional Forklifts for tight spaces in chilly environments

Not sure which type is best? We can help you match the right machine to your operation.

Call our Georgia or Tennessee locations for all of your Hyundai needs. Contact our Alabama or Northwest Florida locations for all of your Crown needs!

Tips for Running Forklifts in Cold Storage

Even if you’ve got the right model, freezer work still takes some extra care. Here are a few tips to keep your forklifts running smoothly:

• Charge batteries in a warm area when possible

• Let hydraulic systems warm up before heavy use

• Inspect hoses and seals regularly for signs of wear

• Wipe down forklifts before moving between warm and cold zones

• Stick to your service schedule, and don’t skip preventative checks

Need a Cold Storage Forklift? Let’s Talk

If your team works in cold storage, don’t settle for equipment that can’t keep up. The right forklift saves money, reduces downtime, and helps your operation run safer and smoother. Contact Us now!