For businesses which raise and move heavy supplies and merchandise regularly, there is probably no more effective or valuable equipment as the forklift. Lift trucks are a popular site in dockyards, manufacturing plants, lumber yards, distribution depots, shipping and receiving, agriculture, warehouses and other work places which has to deal with loads ranging from 3000 to 30,000 plus pounds.
Fork trucks are normally used to keep these operations running smoothly and efficiently. Though lift trucks are a big investment, the amount of man hours they can save and the injuries they reduce from heavy lifting can make the purchase pay for itself in little time.
Available on the market nowadays are numerous of different models from many different manufacturers. These different units are made specifically to deal with certain specific tasks. So as to make certain that you don't purchase more than you require or the wrong type of equipment, it is important to evaluate the requirements of your business and compare to the various units on the market. Talking to a authorized forklift distributor is a good idea and so is doing your own research on the World Wide Web.
When looking at forklifts by the kind of fuel, the following kinds are available:
Electric: Electric lift trucks utilize large, heavy, rechargeable batteries that are lead-acid based. These batteries can run for approximately 5 or 6 hours straight. Electric models are ideal for indoor use due to their lack of emissions. They are a common choice for warehouses and retail spaces since they provide a relatively low cost per hour of operation and put zero emissions into the air where people are working.
Internal Combustion: Internal combustion lift trucks operate with a variety of fuels. Some models take CNG or compressed natural gas, others take diesel, liquid propane or LP or gasoline. In comparison to electric forklifts, the internal combustion or IC units can carry heavier loads, are easier to refuel and accelerate faster. These units are typically more expensive to use than their electric counterparts.
Fuel Cell: The latest in forklift technology is the Hydrogen fuel cell. These models offer the zero emissions and quietness of electric lift trucks but provide the fast refueling capability of an IC model.
There are a variety of outdoor Nissan models that offer synchronized steering. This feature automatically returns the wheel knob to the original position after the completion of a turn. Outfitted with solid pneumatic tires to offer a comfortable ride both outdoors and indoors, these tires are more resistant to both damage and wear.