There are 2 kinds of lift trucks, based whether or not they run on electricity or gas:
Internal Combustion Lift trucks: The IC lift truck would run on fuels such as liquid propane, gas, diesel or compressed natural gas or CNG. Gas powered models are best suited for outdoor use as they emit pollutants and gases that are harmful to workers and pedestrians. Models which run on gasoline are also great to be utilized in bad weather conditions and in the rain. These units can lift weights approximately 15,000 to 35,000 pounds. Because of the maintenance and fuel costs, models which run on gas are much more expensive to use compared to the electric units, although, they cost much less up front than electric powered models. Units that run on liquid propane are the right option to be utilized indoors.
Electric Lift Trucks: Electric forklifts take batteries that need regular charging. As these models do not burn any fuel, there are no emissions polluting the air with these vehicles. They are the best option for indoor use and warehouses. As well, electric lift trucks do not require any fuel storage units and they are a lot quieter to run compared to other units. Amongst the downsides of electric powered units is that they are unable to carry cargo more than 15,000 pounds and hence, have a slower acceleration than gasoline powered models.
Forklifts are particularly designed to easily and quickly transport heavy loads with ease. As the case with nearly all types of machines, unfortunately, forklift accidents do happen frequently. There are some safety rules which need to be followed to be able to keep everybody safe. The most vital problem is recruiting a qualified operator, who can show you a valid lift truck license.
There are numerous different styles of forklifts available on the market. Deciding which one is right for your particular requirements would be based on the type of environment your machinery will have to operate in, for instance, indoors or outdoors or both and what kinds of loads which you need to transport. When you understand your specific needs, it will be really easy to match up to the best kind of forklift. When you understand all your needs precisely you could make an accurate choice.
Renting is one more good way to try out various units if you want to try out various features and see what kind of options are available. This is a cheaper way to determine if the type of machine you have in mind could keep up with you on the job location.