The pandemic has undoubtedly accelerated every aspect of cold chain logistics over the past year, and that rapid pace is now the new normal. Perhaps forgotten in the crush to fulfill orders at breakneck speed is the humble forklift, which in nearly every cold foods facility was put to use for longer hours than ever before in loading and unloading goods.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has brought new urgency and complexity to how companies maintain or increase operational efficiency while ensuring a safe working environment,” says Jim Gaskell, director of global automation and emerging technologies, Crown Equipment. “Companies are realizing it’s important to understand how and when their forklifts are being used to help prepare operations for unexpected shortages and delays, as well as shifting consumer expectations.”