There are two standard kinds of lift trucks, units which run on gas and units that run on electricity:
Internal Combustion or IC Lift trucks: The IC Lift Trucks run on liquid propane, gas, CNG or compressed natural gas or diesel. The gas powered units are made to be utilized outside because they emit gases and pollutants that could be dangerous if inhaled. Gas units are also suitable for use in the rain and in bad weather. These models could lift weights around 15,000 to 35,000 pounds. Due to the maintenance and fuel expenses, units which run on gas are more expensive to utilize compared to the electric models, although, they cost less up front compared to electric powered models. The liquid propane units are the right choice to be used inside.
Electric Lift Trucks: The electric forklift units are powered by very huge batteries that must be recharged. The machines do not produce any polluting air emissions as these units do not burn any fuel. They are the right option for warehouses and indoor applications. Additionally, forklifts which run on electricity do not require any fuel storage units and they are much quieter to run compared to other units. Among the disadvantages of the electric units is that they are unable to carry loads over 15,000 pounds and therefore, have a slower acceleration compared to gasoline powered units.
Forklifts are particularly designed to quickly and easily transport heavy cargo with simplicity. Like the case with nearly all types of machinery, unfortunately, forklift accidents do occur on a regular basis. There are specific safety regulations which should be followed to be able to keep everyone safe. The most important concern is recruiting a trained operator, who could show you a valid forklift license.
There are many different types of forklifts available on the market. Choosing which one is best for your particular needs would be based on the kinds of loads that you have to transport, what type of environment your machine will have to operate in, like for instance, indoors or outdoors or both. Once you understand your particular requirements, it will be easy to match up to the right type of forklift. When you understand your requirements exactly you can make an accurate choice.
Renting is another great way to check out different units if you want to check out various features and see what type of choices are available. This is a less expensive way to determine if the machine you have in mind can keep up with you on the job site.