There are 2 types of forklifts, predicated whether or not they run on electricity or gas:
IC or Internal Combustion Lift trucks: The Internal Combustion lift truck will run on fuels like liquid propane, gas, compressed natural gas or CNG or diesel. Gas powered units are great for outdoor applications because they release gases and pollutants which are harmful to workers and pedestrians. Units which run on gasoline are also suitable for use in bad weather and in the rain. These units can carry weights about 15,000 to 35,000 pounds. Due to the maintenance and fuel expenses, the gas powered models are much more expensive to use compared to the electric models, although, they cost less up front compared to electric powered models. The liquid propane models are the right option to be utilized inside.
Electric Lift Trucks: Electric forklifts take batteries that require frequent charging. Because these models do not burn any fuel, there are no emissions polluting the air with these equipments. They are the best option for indoor use and warehouses. What's more, electric forklifts are much quieter to run compared to other models and they do not need any fuel storage units. Among the downsides of the electric units is that they are unable to carry loads over 15,000 pounds and thus, have a slower acceleration compared to gasoline powered models.
Forklifts are specially made to quickly and easily transport heavy loads with ease. Like the case with nearly all types of machines, unfortunately, forklift mishaps do happen regularly. There are some safety regulations which should be followed to be able to keep everyone safe. The most important issue is recruiting a trained operator, who can show you a valid forklift license.
On the market today, there are many different styles of lift trucks available. Deciding which one is right for your particular needs would be based on the type of environment your machine will have to operate in, like for example, indoors or outdoors or both and what kinds of loads that you have to transport. Once you know your particular needs, it would be easy to match up to the right kind of lift truck. When you know all your needs precisely you could make the right choice.
Leasing is another great way to check out various units if you want to try out different features and see what type of choices are available. This is a cheaper way to determine if the kind of equipment you have selected could keep up with you on the job location.