Forklift Hay Squeezes For Sale - Efficient Hay Loading Equipment

Forklift Hay Squeezes: The Efficient Way to Load Hay

For farmers and ranchers, hay season is an exciting yet demanding time. After months of hard work growing and harvesting hay, it's time to load up trucks and get those precious bales to market. However, loading hay by hand is backbreaking work. Enter the forklift hay squeeze - an attachment that allows you to quickly and efficiently load hay bales onto trucks with a forklift.

What is a Forklift Hay Squeeze?

A forklift hay squeeze is a heavy steel frame that clamps onto the forks of your forklift. It uses hydraulic power to squeeze together and grip rectangular hay bales. Once gripped, bales can be stacked and loaded onto trucks with ease. Forklift hay squeezes are designed specifically for moving large square or rectangular hay bales. They provide an efficient alternative to throwing bales by hand.

Benefits of Using a Hay Squeeze

There are many advantages to using a forklift hay squeeze for loading hay:

• Saves time - Squeezes can load a truck in a fraction of the time it takes workers to load by hand.
• Reduces labor - One person operating a forklift can do the job of many laborers loading by hand.
• Reduces injuries - Eliminates much of the physical exertion of handling bales.
• Improves efficiency - Bales are neatly stacked for better use of truck space.
• Versatile - Squeezes can be used to load trucks, place bales in barns, and create hay stacks.
• Durable construction - Made from high strength steel to handle heavy bales.

Types of Hay Squeezes

Forklift hay squeezes come in a range of types and sizes:

Standard Hay Squeeze

The standard squeeze has fixed tines spaced 16-22 inches apart. They handle small and mid-sized square bales up to 8 feet long. Models like the Skid Steer Standard Hay Squeeze clamp and release bales with a hydraulic powered movable top beam.

Bale Hawg Hay Squeeze

The bale hawg has adjustable tines to handle larger square bales up to 10 feet long. The operator can squeeze tines together or spread them apart as needed. Brands like Edwards Manufacturing offer bale hawg models for 3-point tractor loaders.

Hay Handling Squeeze

These heavy duty models are designed specifically for commercial hay handlers loading many trucks daily. They utilize reinforced steel frames and arms to handle enormous bales. Brands like Rogator make handling squeezes that can move up to 12 foot long bales.

Important Features to Look for

When shopping for a forklift hay squeeze, keep these key features in mind:

• Adjustable tine spacing - To accommodate different bale sizes.
• Durable tine construction - Made from high strength steel to avoid bending.
• Hydraulic powered - For ease of clamping force control.
• Safety locks - Lock bales in place and prevent slippage.
• Compatible frame - Made to easily attach to your forklift model.
• Truss support bars - Provide extra stability when loading large bales.

Choosing the Right Hay Squeeze

Consider the following when selecting a forklift hay squeeze:

• Forklift capacity - Choose a squeeze weight your forklift can handle.
• Bale sizes - Measure the length of your bales to determine needed tine spacing.
• Fork configurations - There are models made to fit different fork types.
• Tractor 3-point vs forklift - Consider how you will operate the squeeze.
• Loading capacity - Select a squeeze rated for your daily workload.
• Terrain - Truss bars provide stability on uneven ground.

Top Brands

Some of the top manufacturers of hay squeezes include:

• Edwards - A leader in 3-point tractor hay squeezes like the Bale Hawg.
• Rogator - Known for enormous commercial hay handling squeezes.
• King Kutter - Offer affordable forklift-mounted squeezes like the standard KK-FHS.
• C&H Manufacturing - Quality forklift and 3-point squeezes with safety locks.
• Pequea - Sturdy all-steel squeezes like the SSH-300HD skid steer model.

Where to Find Hay Squeezes for Sale

New and used forklift hay squeezes can be found for sale at:

• Local farm equipment dealers
• Online equipment retailers
• Auctions - Deal on used/reconditioned squeezes
• Classified ads - Check local listings for private sellers

Buying Tips

When purchasing a forklift hay squeeze, keep these tips in mind:

• Compare prices from multiple dealers to get the best rate.
• Inspect condition closely for any wear/damage if buying used.
• Ask about return policies in case it does not fit your bales/forklift.
• Look for a warranty to cover hydraulic/electrical issues.
• Make sure its rating meets your workload capacity.
• Buy from a reputable dealer that provides support service.

Load Hay with Ease Using a Forklift Hay Squeeze

A forklift hay squeeze is the fastest, safest, and most efficient way for farmers to load hay. With models available to fit any size operation and budget, squeezes eliminate backbreaking labor while improving productivity. Investing in a good quality hay squeeze from a leading brand will provide many years of reliable service. Be sure to select the right size and features for your needs. With a squeeze on your forklift, you'll save money, time and effort this hay season.

FAQs

What size hay bales can a forklift hay squeeze handle?

Most standard squeezes can handle small to mid-sized square bales up to 8 feet long. Heavy duty and "bale hawg" models can squeeze much larger bales up to 10-12 feet in length.

Can I use a hay squeeze on an uneven surface?

Yes, truss bars provide additional stability so squeezes can safely operate on uneven terrain. Models without truss bars should only be used on flat, level surfaces.

How much hay can a forklift hay squeeze load in an hour?

Loading rates vary based on bale size and loader experience, but approximately 150-300 small square bales per hour is average. Large square bales are loaded more slowly at around 30-60 bales per hour.

Are forklift hay squeezes difficult to install and use?

Most hay squeezes are designed for quick and easy attachment to standard forklift forks. Operation is very straightforward using hydraulic power to clamp/release bales. New operators can learn to use a squeeze proficiently after a short practice period.