There are two standard kinds of lift trucks, models which run on gas and models that run on electricity:
Internal Combustion Lift trucks: The IC lift truck would run on fuels such as liquid propane, gas, compressed natural gas or CNG or diesel. Gas powered models are best suited for outdoor applications as they release gases and pollutants which are harmful to workers and pedestrians. Models which run on gasoline are also suitable for use in bad weather and in the rain. These models could lift weights roughly 15,000 to 35,000 pounds. Due to the maintenance and fuel expenses, the gas powered models are more costly to utilize than the electric units, although, they cost less up front than electric powered models. The liquid propane units are the best choice to be used in indoor applications.
Electric Lift Trucks: Electric lift trucks take batteries that require regular charging. Because these models do not burn any fuel, there are no emissions polluting the air with these machinery. They are the best alternative for indoor applications and warehouses. As well, forklifts that run on electricity are a lot quieter to run than other models and they do not require any fuel storage units. One of the disadvantages of electric powered units is that they could not lift cargo over 15,000 pounds and therefore, have a slower acceleration than the models which utilize gasoline.
Lift trucks are specially designed to quickly and easily move heavy loads with ease. Like the case with nearly all types of equipments, unfortunately, lift truck accidents do occur frequently. There are specific safety rules which should be followed so as to keep everybody safe. The most important issue is recruiting a trained operator, who will be able to show you a valid forklift license.
On the market these days, there are numerous different kinds of forklifts available. Choosing which one is best for your specific requirements would be based on the kind of environment your machine would have to operate in, like for instance, indoors or outdoors or both and what kinds of loads that you need to transport. When you understand your particular requirements, it would be easy to match up to the right kind of lift truck. When you know your requirements exactly you can make the best decision.
Leasing is one more great way to check out various models if you want to check out various features and see what kind of options are available. This is a cheaper way to know if the machinery you have chosen can keep up with you on the job location.