Guidelines are provided for those occasions when batteries must be stored, in either a wet or dry state, and for possible reshipment to other areas.
Storage Methods
Lead acid forklift batteries may be stored in a charged and wet (filled with electrolyte) condition when necessary for periods of up to several months. During such periods they should be stored in a clean, cool, dry and well ventilated location away from radiators, hot air ducts or other sources of heat, and protected from exposure to direct sunlight. Before being stored, the forklift battery should be fully charged and the electrolyte should be brought to the proper level. Any leads should be disconnected or insulated to prevent accidental discharge. The top of the forklift battery must be protected from dust, foreign matter and moisture. Do not attempt to dismantle the forklift battery.
If the average storage temperature is 80 degrees F. or higher, the specific gravity of the electrolyte should be checked at least monthly. If below 80 degrees F., check gravities at least every two months. Whenever the specific gravity, corrected to 80 degrees F., falls to 1.240 or below, the forklift battery should be given a freshening charge once every two weeks. A freshening charge is also recommended just before returning a forklift battery to service. This is especially useful if you want to use the best forklift battery shipping procedures; that way, when the battery arrives, it will be in working order.
Charged and Dry Forklift Batteries
New forklift batteries are often supplied charged and dry (without electrolyte). Forklift Batteries in this condition can remain in storage, unattended, for a period of at least two years. They should be stored in a cool, dry place with vent caps tightly closed. Average temperatures should not exceed 80 degrees F. Forklift Batteries should not be stored near radiators, hot air ducts, or other sources of heat, and should be protected from exposure to direct sunlight. The top of the forklift battery should be protected from dust, foreign matter and moisture. Charged and dry forklift batteries when removed from storage should be activated.
Shipment
Charged and Wet Forklift Batteries.
Depots or using organizations may make shipments of motive power forklift batteries in a charged and wet condition if intended for use within a period of 90 days. The forklift battery service weight is usually stamped into the steel tray near one of the lifting holes. Detailed forklift battery information may also be obtained from manufacturers catalog.
Before crating a wet forklift battery for shipment it should be given a freshening charge. A tag should be attached to both the forklift battery and the crate showing the date of the last charge and the specific gravity of the electrolyte at the completion of the charge. Make certain that the forklift battery is properly protected when crated. The receiving organization should be alerted also to the need for a freshening charge before the forklift battery is put into service.
Charged and Dry Forklift Batteries.
Depots will normally make domestic and export shipments of new forklift batteries which usually will be in a charged and dry condition. Forklift batteries, and the accompanying electrolyte in separate carboys, which are intended for export shipment must be packaged in accordance with approved methods.
If you have any questions or concerns about forklift battery shipping procedures, please don’t hesitate to reach out!
