There are two basic kinds of lift trucks, units which run on gas and units which run on electricity:
IC or Internal Combustion Forklifts: The Internal Combustion Lift Trucks run on gas, liquid propane, CNG or compressed natural gas or diesel. The gas powered units are meant to be utilized outside as they release gases and pollutants that could be harmful if inhaled. Units which run on gasoline are also suitable to be used in bad weather conditions and in the rain. These units could lift weights around 15,000 to 35,000 pounds. Because of the fuel costs and maintenance, the gas powered models are a lot more costly to utilize compared to units which run on electricity, although, they cost a lot less up front than electric powered models. Models which run on liquid propane are the best choice to be utilized in indoor applications.
Electric Forklifts: The electric lift truck units are powered by very big batteries that should be recharged. The equipments do not produce any polluting air emissions like these models do not burn any fuel. They are the best alternative for warehouses and indoor use. Also, electric lift trucks are a lot quieter to run compared to other units and they do not require any fuel storage units. Amongst the downsides of electric powered models is that they are unable to lift cargo more than 15,000 pounds and hence, have a slower acceleration than the units which use gasoline.
Lift trucks are specifically made to easily and quickly transport heavy loads with simplicity. As the case with nearly all types of vehicle, unfortunately, forklift mishaps do occur frequently. There are some safety regulations that must be followed so as to keep everybody safe. The most important concern is recruiting a trained operator, who could show you a valid lift truck license.
On the market nowadays, there are numerous different kinds of lift trucks available. Choosing which one is right for your specific requirements would be based on the type of environment your machinery will need to operate in, like for example, indoors or outdoors or both and what types of loads that you need to transport. Once you understand your particular requirements, it will be easy to match up to the right type of lift truck. When you understand your needs exactly you could make the best choice.
Renting is one more good way to check out various units if you want to try out various features and see what kind of options are available. This is a less expensive way to know if the equipment you have chosen could keep up with you on the job site.