There are two basic kinds of lift trucks, units which run on gas and units that run on electricity:
Internal Combustion Forklifts: The IC forklift will run on fuels like liquid propane, gas, compressed natural gas or CNG or diesel. Gas powered models are great for outdoor applications as they emit gases and pollutants that are harmful to workers and pedestrians. Models that run on gasoline are also suitable to be utilized in the rain and in bad weather conditions. These models could carry weights around 15,000 to 35,000 pounds. Due to the maintenance and fuel expenses, models which run on gas are a lot more expensive to use than units that run on electricity, however, they cost much less up front than electric powered models. The liquid propane units are the best choice to be utilized in indoor applications.
Electric Forklifts: The electric lift truck units are powered by very huge batteries that should be recharged. The vehicles do not create any polluting air emissions as these models do not burn any fuel. They are the right choice for indoor use and warehouses. Also, forklifts that run on electricity are a lot quieter to run compared to other units and they do not need any fuel storage units. One of the downsides of electric powered units is that they could not lift cargo over 15,000 pounds and hence, have a slower acceleration than the units that utilize gasoline.
Forklifts are specially made to quickly and easily move heavy cargo with simplicity. As the case with most types of equipments, unfortunately, lift truck accidents do happen on a regular basis. There are specific safety regulations that should be followed so as to keep everyone safe. The most essential issue is recruiting a trained operator, who can show you a valid forklift license.
On the market today, there are numerous different styles of lift trucks available. Deciding which one is right for your particular requirements will be based on the types of loads which you have to transport, what kind of environment your equipment would have to operate in, like for instance, outdoors or indoors or both. When you know your particular requirements, it will be easy to match up to the best type of lift truck. When you know all your requirements precisely you can make the right choice.
Another great way to get first hand experience on the different lift truck units is the try leasing your forklift. This will also enable you to see all the possible choices available to you. This is a less expensive way to determine if the type of equipment you have in mind can keep up with you on the job location.