There are two standard kinds of lift trucks, units that run on gas and those that run on electricity:
IC or Internal Combustion Lift trucks: 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 because they produce gases and pollutants that are harmful to employees and pedestrians. Gas models are also great for use in the rain and in bad climate. These units can lift weights about 15,000 to 35,000 pounds. Because of the fuel costs and maintenance, the gas powered models are more costly to utilize than the electric units, however, they cost less up front compared to the electric units. The liquid propane units are the right choice for safe use in indoor applications.
Electric Forklifts: Electric lift trucks take batteries which need regular charging. As these units do not burn any fuel, there are no emissions polluting the air with these machinery. They are the right alternative for indoor use and warehouses. Additionally, electric forklifts are much quieter to run compared to other models and they do not need any fuel storage units. One of the disadvantages of the electric models is that they are unable to lift loads over 15,000 pounds and therefore, have a slower acceleration than the units which utilize gasoline.
Forklifts are specifically made to quickly and easily move heavy loads with simplicity. Like the case with most kinds of machines, unfortunately, lift truck accidents do happen frequently. There are specific safety regulations which need to be followed so as to keep everyone safe. The most essential issue is recruiting a qualified operator, who could show you a valid lift truck license.
On the market these days, there are many different kinds of lift trucks available. Choosing which one is right for your specific requirements would be based on the kinds of loads which you need to transport, what kind of environment your machine would need to operate in, for instance, outdoors or indoors or both. When you know your particular needs, it will be really easy to match up to the best type of forklift. When you understand your requirements exactly you could make an accurate decision.
One more great way to get first hand experience on the different lift truck units is the try renting your forklift. This will also allow you to see all the possible options available to you. This is a less expensive way to know if the machinery you have chosen can keep up with you on the job location.