There are two standard types of forklifts, those which run on gas and models that run on electricity:
Internal Combustion or IC Forklifts: The Internal Combustion lift truck will run on fuels like liquid propane, gas, diesel or compressed natural gas or CNG. Gas powered models are best suited for outdoor applications since they release pollutants and gases that are harmful to employees and pedestrians. Gas units are also suitable for use in the rain and in bad climate. These units could carry weights approximately 15,000 to 35,000 pounds. Because of the fuel expenses and maintenance, models that run on gas are much more costly to utilize compared to units which run on electricity, however, they cost a lot less up front compared to the electric models. The liquid propane units are the right choice for safe use inside.
Electric Forklifts: Electric forklifts take batteries which need frequent charging. Because these units do not burn any fuel, there are no emissions polluting the air with these equipments. They are the best choice for warehouses and indoor applications. Furthermore, electric lift trucks do not need any fuel storage units and they are much quieter to run than other units. One of the downsides of electric powered units is that they could not carry loads over 15,000 pounds and therefore, have a slower acceleration than gasoline powered units.
Lift trucks are particularly designed to quickly and easily move heavy loads with ease. As the case with most types of machinery, unfortunately, lift truck mishaps do happen on a regular basis. There are specific safety rules that have to be followed to be able to keep everybody safe. The most essential issue is recruiting a trained operator, who will be able to show you a valid forklift license.
On the market nowadays, there are many different styles of forklifts available. Choosing which one is right for your particular requirements would be based on the types of loads that you need to transport, what kind of environment your equipment will need to operate in, for instance, outdoors or indoors or both. Once you know your specific needs, it would be easy to match up to the right type of lift truck. When you know your requirements exactly you could make a correct choice.
Leasing is one more great way to try out different models if you want to try out different features and see what type of choices are available. This is a less expensive way to determine if the equipment you have in mind could keep up with you on the job site.