There are 2 types of forklifts, based whether or not they run on gas or electricity:
Internal Combustion Lift trucks: The IC lift truck would run on fuels like gas, liquid propane, diesel or compressed natural gas or CNG. Gas powered models are best suited for outdoor use since they release gases and pollutants which are harmful to employees and pedestrians. Gas models are also great to be used in bad weather conditions and in the rain. These units can lift weights roughly 15,000 to 35,000 pounds. Because of the maintenance and fuel expenses, units that run on gas are a lot more expensive to utilize than units which run on electricity, however, they cost less up front compared to the electric models. The liquid propane units are the best choice for safe use in indoor applications.
Electric Forklifts: The electric forklift units are powered by really huge batteries that must be recharged. The vehicles do not create any polluting air emissions as these models do not burn any fuel. They are the right choice for warehouses and indoor applications. As well, lift trucks which run on electricity are much quieter to run than other models and they do not require any fuel storage units. One of the disadvantages of electric powered models is that they can not lift loads over 15,000 pounds and hence, have a slower acceleration compared to gasoline powered models.
Lift trucks are particularly designed to quickly and easily transport heavy loads with simplicity. As the case with most types of equipments, unfortunately, lift truck accidents do happen on a regular basis. There are some safety regulations that need to be followed to be able to keep everybody safe. The most vital problem is recruiting a qualified operator, who will be able to 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 particular requirements would be based on the type of environment your machinery would need to operate in, like for instance, outdoors or indoors or both and what kinds of loads which you need to transport. When you understand your particular requirements, it would be easy to match up to the best kind of lift truck. When you know all your requirements precisely you can make the best decision.
One more great way to get first hand experience on the different forklift models is the try renting your forklift. This will also enable you to see all the possible choices available to you. This is a less expensive way to determine if the machinery you have selected can keep up with you on the job location.