1. Aconstructioncompanyisconsideringtwopossibilitiesforwarehouseoperations. Proposal 1 would require the purchase of a forklift for $5,000 and 500 pallets that cost $5 each. The average life of a pallet is assumed to be 2 years. If the forklift is purchased, the company must hire an operator for $9,000 annually and spend $600 per year on maintenance and operation. The life of the forklift is expected to be 12 years with a $700 salvage value.
2. Alternatively, proposal 2 requires that the company hire 2 men to operate power driven hand trucks at a cost of $7,500 per man. One hand truck will be required at a cost of $900. The hand truck will have a life of 6 years with no salvage value. If the company's minimum attractive rate of return is 12%, which alternative should be selected? Use the annual equivalent method.