Forklifts are categorized into the following types based on the structure:
Standard Trucks: The standard lift truck is a rugged and durable model and the most commonly used forklift in warehouses. Standard trucks could normally lift weights between 3,000 pounds to 4,000 pounds and their blades can carry loads up to a height of 20 feet.
Reach Truck: Reach Trucks are a different name for narrow-aisle lift trucks. Generally, these machinery run on electricity. These machines are particularly made for pallet storage. They are capable of lifting loads up to 40 feet in height. If you desire unloading and raising weights quickly and over long distances, than a reach truck would not be the right alternative for your needs.
Order Selector: Very narrow aisle lift trucks or order selectors can be used to transport racked loads which are a lot smaller than pallet size. Order Selectors are unique in that they could raise both the cargo and the truck driver up to 40 feet in height.
Motorized Pallet Trucks: The motorized pallet truck has been called by lots of names like: walkies, walkie riders and riders. These models are appropriately named due to the fact that the operator is not required to sit inside of the machinery in order to operate it. Instead, he walks beside the truck as it moves the load.
Swing Mast Trucks: The swing mast truck to regular models of trucks. These are machines with a narrow aisle and have masts that could swing up to 90 degrees, just in one direction.
Turret Trucks: Turret Trucks are also designed with a very narrow aisle. Like an Order Selector, they could raise the load as well as the operator. Additionally, these trucks are capable of swinging their forks ninety degree on each side.
Go to your local lift truck dealership to see all of these various units and determine which one in particular would be best for your application. If you want to lease before you buy, this is a very good option for you to be able to try out different units prior to making such a large purchase. Make certain you have a list of questions to ask your forklift dealer and be very honest about what the needs of business are when you are talking about the facts with a knowledgeable dealer.
Today, there is such a huge variety of lift truck units available, that it does not matter where you are, you would be able to find the right forklift for your company.