There are two standard kinds of lift trucks, those that run on gas and units which run on electricity:
Internal Combustion Lift trucks: The Internal Combustion lift truck will run on fuels such as liquid propane, gas, diesel or compressed natural gas or CNG. Gas powered models are best suited for outdoor use since they emit pollutants and gases which are harmful to workers and pedestrians. Models which run on gasoline are also great for application in the rain and in bad climate. These units could carry weights about 15,000 to 35,000 pounds. Because of the fuel costs and maintenance, the gas powered units are more costly to utilize than the electric units, although, they cost less up front compared to electric powered units. Units that run on liquid propane are the right option for safe use inside.
Electric Forklifts: Electric lift trucks take batteries which need frequent charging. Because these units do not burn any fuel, there are no emissions polluting the air with these machines. They are the right choice for indoor use and warehouses. What's more, lift trucks that run on electricity do not require any fuel storage units and they are a lot quieter to run than other models. Among the disadvantages of electric powered models is that they could not carry loads more than 15,000 pounds and thus, have a slower acceleration than the models that utilize gasoline.
The forklift is particularly designed to move objects and materials easily and quickly. Mishaps do occur on a regular basis as is the case with nearly all kinds of machinery. There are some safety rules that must be followed to be able to keep everybody safe. The most essential issue is recruiting a qualified operator, who can show you a valid forklift license.
There are many different styles of lift trucks available on the market. Deciding which one is best for your specific requirements would be based on the kind of environment your machine will need to operate in, like for instance, indoors or outdoors or both and what kinds of loads that you have to transport. When you understand your specific requirements, it will be very easy to match up to the best kind of forklift. When you know your requirements precisely you can make a correct decision.
One more great way to get first hand experience on the different forklift models is the try leasing your forklift. This would also allow you to see all the possible options available to you. This is a less expensive way to know if the equipment you have chosen can keep up with you on the job location.