There are two basic kinds of lift trucks, units which run on gas and models which run on electricity:
Internal Combustion or IC Forklifts: The Internal Combustion Forklifts run on liquid propane, gas, CNG or compressed natural gas or diesel. The gas powered models are meant to be used outside as they emit pollutants and gases that can be harmful if inhaled. Models which run on gasoline are also great for use in bad weather and in the rain. These units can lift weights around 15,000 to 35,000 pounds. Due to the fuel costs and maintenance, models which run on gas are much more expensive to use compared to units which run on electricity, although, they cost much less up front compared to electric powered models. The liquid propane models are the right option to be utilized indoors.
Electric Lift Trucks: Electric forklifts take batteries which require regular charging. As these models do not burn any fuel, there are no emissions polluting the air with these machinery. They are the best choice for indoor use and warehouses. Moreover, electric lift trucks are a lot quieter to run compared to other units and they do not require any fuel storage units. Among the downsides of the electric units is that they could not carry loads more than 15,000 pounds and thus, have a slower acceleration compared to gasoline powered models.
Forklifts are specially designed to easily and quickly transport heavy loads with ease. As the case with nearly all kinds of machines, unfortunately, forklift accidents do occur frequently. There are some safety rules that must be followed in order to keep everybody safe. The most vital issue is recruiting a trained operator, who can show you a valid lift truck license.
On the market these days, there are numerous different types of lift trucks available. Choosing which one is best for your specific requirements would be based on the types of loads that you have to transport, what kind of environment your machinery will have to operate in, for instance, outdoors or indoors or both. Once you know your particular requirements, it would be very easy to match up to the right type of forklift. When you understand all your needs exactly you will be able to make the right decision.
Leasing is another great way to try out different units if you want to try out different features and see what type of options are available. This is a less expensive way to determine if the type of machinery you have selected could keep up with you on the job site.