Learn What It Takes to Deliver 80 High Capacity Forklifts to the International Manufacturing Technology Show
Every two years, Chicago becomes the center of the manufacturing world as thousands of exhibitors and attendees gather at McCormick Place for the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) — the largest manufacturing trade show in North America.
What visitors don’t see is the enormous amount of planning, logistics, and equipment required before the doors ever open.
This year, National Lift Truck is once again proud to play a role behind the scenes by delivering more than 80 high capacity forklifts that help exhibitors safely unload, position, and install the massive machinery displayed throughout the show.
Watch the video below to see how our team supports one of the largest rental equipment delivery projects of the year.
Why Does IMTS Need High-Capacity Forklifts?
Many of the machines displayed at IMTS weigh tens of thousands of pounds. CNC machining centers, presses, fabrication equipment, robotics, and automated manufacturing systems are too heavy for standard forklifts.
Instead, exhibitors rely on high-capacity forklift rentals that are specifically designed to safely lift and transport extremely heavy loads inside venues like McCormick Place during move-in and move-out.
National Lift Truck is uniquely equipped with a large fleet of heavy-duty forklifts ranging from traditional large-capacity lift trucks to specialty material handling equipment capable of handling some of the industry’s largest machines.
Delivering More Than Forklifts
Moving over 80 forklifts into one of the busiest convention centers in the country requires far more than simply loading trucks.
Weeks before IMTS begins, our rental coordinators, logistics team, drivers, technicians, and service professionals work together to ensure every machine arrives on schedule and is ready to perform.
The process includes:
- Coordinating delivery schedules with event logistics teams
- Preparing and inspecting every forklift before shipment
- Transporting equipment throughout the Chicago area
- Positioning forklifts for exhibitors to move across multiple exhibit halls
- Providing ongoing forklift service and support throughout the event
- Coordinating equipment pickup after the show concludes
It’s a true team effort that showcases the experience and responsiveness our customers rely on every day.
The Right Equipment for the Job
No two exhibitors have the same lifting requirements.
Our fleet includes a wide range of high-capacity forklift rentals capable of handling everything from heavy manufacturing equipment to oversized industrial components. Having one of the Midwest’s largest specialty forklift fleets allows us to match the right equipment to each customer’s specific application.
When precision, reliability, and safety matter, choosing the right equipment—and the right partner—makes all the difference.
Supporting Chicago’s Largest Industrial Events
For decades, National Lift Truck has supported manufacturers, contractors, machinery movers, and event organizers throughout the Chicago area.
In addition to serving IMTS, our equipment can be found supporting projects at:
- McCormick Place
- Manufacturing facilities
- Distribution centers
- Construction sites
- Industrial shutdowns
- Machinery installations
- Specialized rigging and heavy equipment moves
Whether it’s a single forklift rental or a coordinated fleet deployment for a major event, our team is equipped to handle projects of every size.
More Than Equipment—A Trusted Partner
At National Lift Truck, we know that our customers’ schedules don’t leave room for delays.
That’s why we invest in a large, diverse rental fleet backed by experienced drivers, field service technicians, rental coordinators, and customer support professionals who understand what it takes to keep complex projects moving.
Delivering more than 80 high-capacity forklifts to IMTS is just one example of how our team works behind the scenes to support some of the largest manufacturing and industrial events in the country.
If your next project requires high-capacity forklift rentals, specialty lift equipment, or expert material handling solutions, National Lift Truck is ready to help.
Contact our team today to learn more about our forklift rental, sales, and service solutions throughout Chicago and the Midwest.