There are two basic types of lift trucks, models that run on gas and units which run on electricity:
Internal Combustion Forklifts: The IC Lift Trucks run on gas, liquid propane, compressed natural gas or CNG or diesel. The gas powered units are meant to be utilized outside because they emit pollutants and gases which can be harmful if inhaled. Units that run on gasoline are also great for application in the rain and in bad weather. These models could lift weights about 15,000 to 35,000 pounds. Due to the maintenance and fuel expenses, the gas powered units are more costly to utilize than units which run on electricity, although, they cost a lot less up front compared to the electric units. Models that run on liquid propane are the right choice for safe use indoors.
Electric Forklifts: Electric forklifts take batteries which require frequent charging. As these units do not burn any fuel, there are no emissions polluting the air with these equipments. They are the best alternative for indoor use and warehouses. Furthermore, lift trucks that run on electricity do not need any fuel storage units and they are much quieter to run than other units. Amongst the disadvantages of electric powered units is that they could not carry loads over 15,000 pounds and thus, have a slower acceleration compared to the units that use gasoline.
The lift truck is particularly designed to transport goods and materials easily and quickly. Mishaps do happen often as is the case with nearly all types of vehicles. There are some safety regulations that must be followed in order to keep everybody safe. The most vital problem is recruiting a trained operator, who could show you a valid lift truck license.
There are many different styles of lift trucks available on the market. Deciding which one is best for your particular requirements would be based on the kinds of loads that you need to transport, what kind of environment your machine would have to operate in, like for instance, outdoors or indoors or both. Once you understand your particular needs, it would be easy to match up to the right kind of forklift. When you understand your requirements exactly you would be able to make the best decision.
Renting is one more good way to try out various units if you want to check out different features and see what kind of choices are available. This is a less expensive way to know if the kind of machinery you have chosen could keep up with you on the job location.