There are 2 kinds of lift trucks, based whether or not they run on electricity or gas:
IC or Internal Combustion Lift trucks: The Internal Combustion Lift Trucks run on liquid propane, gas, compressed natural gas or CNG or diesel. The gas powered models are made to be used outside since they emit gases and pollutants that can be harmful if inhaled. Units which run on gasoline are also suitable for application in bad climate and in the rain. These units can carry weights approximately 15,000 to 35,000 pounds. Due to the maintenance and fuel expenses, models which run on gas are more expensive to utilize than models which run on electricity, although, they cost much less up front compared to the electric units. Models which run on liquid propane are the best option to be utilized indoors.
Electric Lift Trucks: Electric lift trucks take batteries that require frequent charging. As these models do not burn any fuel, there are no emissions polluting the air with these equipments. They are the best option for warehouses and indoor applications. Additionally, lift trucks which run on electricity do not require any fuel storage units and they are a lot quieter to run compared to other models. Amongst the disadvantages of electric powered models is that they are unable to carry loads more than 15,000 pounds and hence, have a slower acceleration compared to gasoline powered units.
Lift trucks are particularly made to quickly and easily transport heavy cargo with simplicity. Like the case with nearly all kinds of machines, unfortunately, lift truck accidents do happen regularly. There are some safety regulations that should be followed in order to keep everyone safe. The most essential problem is recruiting a trained operator, who could show you a valid forklift license.
There are many different types of lift trucks available on the market. Choosing which one is right for your specific needs would be based on the types of loads that you need to transport, what type of environment your equipment would have to operate in, for instance, outdoors or indoors or both. When you understand your particular needs, it will be very easy to match up to the best type of forklift. When you know all your requirements precisely you could make a correct choice.
One more great way to get first hand experience on the various lift truck units is the try leasing your forklift. This will also enable you to see all the possible options available to you. This is a cheaper way to know if the kind of machinery you have chosen can keep up with you on the job location.