Lift trucks are categorized into the following kinds based on the structure:
Standard Trucks: The standard lift truck is a rugged and durable model and the most commonly used forklift inside warehouses. Standard trucks could usually carry weights between 3,000 pounds to 4,000 pounds and their blades could lift cargo up to a height of 20 feet.
Reach Truck: The reach truck or narrow aisle forklift are normally smaller, more maneuverable and operates mostly on electricity. These equipment are specifically made for pallet storage. They could carry loads up to 40 feet in height. If you want unloading and lifting weights over long distances and quickly, than a reach truck would not be the best kind of machine for your requirements.
Order Selector: Order Selectors are very narrow aisle trucks which are utilized to move racked loads which are smaller than pallet size. Order Selectors are different in that they could raise both the truck operator and the cargo as high as 40 feet.
Motorized Pallet Trucks: Motorized Pallet Trucks are also known as riders, walkies and walkie riders. These units are appropriately named due to the fact that the driver is not required to sit inside of the machine to be able to operate it. Instead, he walks along the side of the truck as it transports the load.
Swing Mast Trucks: The swing mast truck to regular units of trucks. These are machines with a narrow aisle and have masts that could swing up to 90 degrees, just in one direction.
Turret Trucks: The turret truck has been designed to operate in very narrow aisles. Similar to an Order Selector, they could lift the operator as well as the load. Moreover, these types of trucks could swing their forks 90 degree on each side.
To determine what unit in particular will best meet your businesses needs, go to a local dealer to check out all the various models. If you want to lease before you purchase, this is a great option for you to be able to check out various models before making such a big purchase. Make sure you have a list of questions for your forklift dealer and be really honest about what the requirements of company are when you are discussing the facts with a knowledgeable dealer.
Today, there is such a wide variety of lift truck units available, that it does not matter where you are, you will be able to find the best lift truck for your company.