There are two standard types of forklifts, units that run on gas and units that run on electricity:
Internal Combustion Lift trucks: The Internal Combustion lift truck will run on fuels such as gas, liquid propane, diesel or compressed natural gas or CNG. Gas powered units are great for outdoor use because they emit pollutants and gases that are harmful to employees and pedestrians. Gas models are also suitable to be utilized in the rain and in bad weather. These models can carry weights about 15,000 to 35,000 pounds. Because of the maintenance and fuel costs, the gas powered units are more expensive to use than models that run on electricity, however, they cost less up front than electric powered units. The liquid propane units are the best option for safe use indoors.
Electric Forklifts: The electric forklift units are powered by really big batteries that should be recharged. The equipments do not create any polluting air emissions as these units do not burn any fuel. They are the right alternative for warehouses and indoor use. Moreover, forklifts that run on electricity do not require any fuel storage units and they are a lot quieter to run compared to other units. Amongst the disadvantages of the electric models is that they can not carry loads over 15,000 pounds and hence, have a slower acceleration compared to the models that utilize gasoline.
Forklifts are specially designed to easily and quickly move heavy cargo with ease. Like the case with nearly all types of vehicle, unfortunately, lift truck accidents do occur regularly. There are some safety rules which should be followed to be able to keep everybody safe. The most essential issue is recruiting a trained operator, who can show you a valid lift truck license.
There are many different types of lift trucks offered on the market. Deciding which one is right for your specific requirements will be based on the type of environment your equipment will need to operate in, like for example, outdoors or indoors or both and what types of loads that you need to transport. Once you know your particular requirements, it would be very easy to match up to the best type of lift truck. When you know your needs exactly you could make an accurate decision.
Renting is another great way to try out different units if you want to try out different features and see what type of choices are available. This is a cheaper way to know if the machinery you have selected could keep up with you on the job site.