Rethinking Forklift Cabs: Why “Factory Installed” Isn’t Always the Best Choice
A practical look at cost, timing, and what operators actually need on the floor.
TL;DR: Factory cabs often add big cost and long lead times. Aftermarket enclosures can deliver the same protection and comfort—without the wait.
When it comes to protecting operators from harsh weather and tough jobsite conditions, most buyers assume a factory-installed cab is the gold standard. It’s a familiar checkbox when ordering a new lift.
But that assumption can cost more time and money than most realize.
The true cost of a factory cab
Factory cabs can add tens of thousands of dollars to a new forklift. They’re usually bundled into production queues, so when you select that option, your forklift rides a longer line.
In today’s environment, that can mean 12–24 months of extra lead time — not because the lift isn’t available, but because the cab option slows everything down. Meanwhile, operators are exposed to the elements and productivity takes a hit.
A smarter option: aftermarket cabs with the same protection
That’s where solutions like ProEnclosures cab systems come in. Our enclosures are built to deliver the same operator experience as factory units — fully enclosed, sealed, and ready for any season — without the excessive cost or delay.
- Comparable protection and visibility to OEM systems
- Meaningful cost savings
- Ships in days, installs quickly — no long production queue
It’s the same experience from the operator’s seat — just without the long wait and inflated price tag.
Speed and flexibility matter
More teams now order lifts without factory cabs and install aftermarket systems right after delivery. You reduce downtime and gain flexibility — heaters, fans, wipers, and other accessories can be tailored to your climate and workflow instead of a fixed factory bundle.
Glass vs. Polycarbonate: The material difference
Most factory cabs use glass panels. They look clean, but they’re heavy, brittle, and expensive to replace. In busy facilities, a single cracked pane can take a unit out of service while you wait on parts and install.
ProEnclosures uses polycarbonate for enclosure panels. It’s lighter, impact-resistant, and virtually shatterproof — ideal for warehouses and yards where debris, pallets, and tight turns are part of the day.
| Feature | Glass Cab | Polycarbonate Cab |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Resistance | — Breaks easily on impact; prone to cracking | ✓ Virtually shatterproof; withstands heavy impacts |
| Weight | — Heavier panels add strain to guards and hinges | ✓ Lightweight panels for easier install and service |
| Visibility | — Clear but can distort if curved or scratched | ✓ Optical-grade clarity; resists haze and yellowing |
| Durability | — Chips, cracks, and temperature shock are common | ✓ Maintains structure across wide temperature ranges |
| Maintenance & Cost | — Frequent replacements and downtime | ✓ Minimal maintenance and lower long-term cost |
The bottom line
For years, “factory-installed” signaled quality. Today, speed and practicality matter just as much. Aftermarket solutions like those from ProEnclosures prove you can get the same comfort and protection without the long wait.
Next time you’re ordering equipment, ask: Do we really need to wait two years — or can our operators be comfortable by next week?
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