From renting to buying with the perfect fit-for-purpose Baoli 3-wheeler

Lou Dalla Rosa, Operations Manager at Roller Shutter Components, a Victoria-based company, knows the importance of having reliable equipment that fits the job.

As a wholesale supplier of Italian motors and parts for window roller shutters, Lou operates out of a 400sqm warehouse that handles heavy pallet deliveries. When a 20-foot container arrives, it's all hands on deck and that includes their material handling equipment.

Lou was closely involved in the decision-making when the business looked at acquiring a material handling solution.

“We looked at new units and second-hand units, and we went through all the different brands that are out there. We noticed Baoli and thought this might be something. It was competitively priced, and it had all the features we needed.

“We started by renting and trialling a forklift and found that it was more than suitable for our needs. We had it for 18 months and it’s been fantastic.”

The flexibility of starting with a rental made it easy to test the waters before committing to a purchase.

Choosing electric for indoor safety

With space constraints and occasional high-volume lifting, Lou needed a forklift that was compact, easy to manoeuvre, and safe for indoor use. The Baoli KBET18 3-wheel electric truck ticked all the boxes.

“I work inside a factory which is predominantly with the doors closed all the time. I didn’t feel comfortable having an internal combustion engine operating with the fumes, so I thought battery would be the best option for us.”

After trying both lithium-ion and lead-acid battery options, he settled on lead-acid—ideal for the unit’s intermittent but essential use.

“We need a forklift but we’re not on the forklift 24/7. It gets used for short spurts at a time and this is the best fit for what we need.”

Opting to go for an electric unit also eliminated the need for gas storage and the associated compliance requirements.

“With the electric unit it’s very simple. We’ve got the charger tucked away in the corner. At the rate this unit’s going, we’ll probably only charge it once every couple of months. So the unit’s ready to go all the time. And it’s quiet, smooth and safe.”

Fit for the Job

Lou’s day-to-day operations involve managing pallet racking systems and safely moving loads. Whether it’s lifting axles, unloading 1-tonne pallets, or just raising stock to a safe height, Lou appreciates how the Baoli unit supports both safety and efficiency.

Working alone in the factory, he often uses the forklift to lift items to a safer working height. The Baoli KBET18’s compact design also makes a difference in tight areas. “I’m able to navigate through the tight spaces of the warehouse which is why we got the small, 3-wheel electric unit. I find its manoeuvrability is fantastic.”

From Rental to Ownership

Initially unsure of their long-term needs, Lou chose to go with Baoli’s short-term rental solution for flexibility. But after 18 months, the decision to purchase was easy.

“We were so happy with the unit that we had, we thought ‘Instead of paying rental, let’s go ahead and purchase a truck,’ which worked out perfect for us.”

Support That Keeps Things Moving

Backed and supported by Linde Material Handling’s nationwide service and spare parts network, it was Linde’s regular servicing and customer support that sealed the deal.

“They just come out to do the regular scheduled servicing. They’re always easy to get along with… very helpful and easy to work with.”

Lou also praises the experience working with Victoria Territory Manager Mark Cortese.
“Mark has been fantastic to deal with. Linde’s been excellent to deal with as well. We’ve had no problems whatsoever.”

Would he recommend Baoli forklifts to others?

“Yes, absolutely, no reason not to.”

Upgrade your operations

Ready to transform your operations? Explore Baoli’s range of forklifts here. Alternatively, check out our great deals on offer in our 5-year warranty sale, now on!

Considering a forklift that promises reliability while on a tight budget? Discover the potential of the Baoli KBET18 for your operations today!