There are two standard types of forklifts, units that run on gas and models which run on electricity:
Internal Combustion or IC Forklifts: The IC Lift Trucks run on gas, liquid propane, compressed natural gas or CNG or diesel. The gas powered models are made to be used outdoors as they release pollutants and gases which can be harmful if inhaled. Gas models are also great to be used in the rain and in bad weather. These units could lift weights roughly 15,000 to 35,000 pounds. Due to the maintenance and fuel costs, the gas powered units are more costly to utilize than the electric models, although, they cost less up front compared to electric powered models. The liquid propane models are the best choice to be used indoors.
Electric Forklifts: The electric lift truck units are powered by really big batteries which should be recharged. The equipments do not produce any polluting air emissions as these models do not burn any fuel. They are the right choice for indoor applications and warehouses. Furthermore, forklifts which run on electricity do not require any fuel storage units and they are a lot quieter to run than other models. One of the downsides of the electric units is that they are unable to lift loads more than 15,000 pounds and thus, have a slower acceleration compared to gasoline powered models.
The lift truck is specifically designed to move objects and supplies quickly and easily. Accidents do happen often as is the case with nearly all kinds of vehicles. There are specific safety rules which need to be followed in order to keep everybody safe. The most vital concern is recruiting a trained operator, who could show you a valid forklift license.
On the market today, there are many different kinds of forklifts available. Choosing which one is right for your particular needs would be based on the kind of environment your machine would need to operate in, for example, indoors or outdoors or both and what kinds of loads that you have to transport. When you understand your particular requirements, it will be really easy to match up to the best type of lift truck. When you understand all your needs precisely you could make the right choice.
Another great way to get first hand experience on the various forklift models is the try leasing your lift truck. This will also allow you to see all the possible options available to you. This is a less expensive way to determine if the type of machinery you have selected can keep up with you on the job site.