How to choose between a built-in and stand-alone charger

In most cases, the batteries of forklifts and warehouse equipment are charged using a stand-alone traction battery charger. To use this type of charger, a designated charging area is required, and the charger should ideally be placed on a platform or mounted on the wall. When the operator receives a signal that the battery needs charging, they can simply drive to the charging station.

However, stand-alone traction batteries are impractical for equipment such as mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs), small earth-movers, telehandlers, scrubbers, sweepers and golf carts. As these machines are often used outdoors and are constantly on the move, a built-in charger is the preferred option due to its flexibility. Not only does a built-in charger ensure that the charger is always at hand, but it also allows the battery to be charged at any time. As a result, a designated charging station is not required, and in most cases, it’s sufficient simply to plug the charger into a socket to start charging.