There are two standard types of lift trucks, units that run on gas and models that run on electricity:
Internal Combustion Forklifts: The Internal Combustion forklift would run on fuels like liquid propane, gas, diesel or compressed natural gas or CNG. Gas powered units are great for outdoor use because they emit pollutants and gases that are harmful to workers and pedestrians. Units that run on gasoline are also great for application in bad weather and in the rain. These units can 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 use than the electric units, however, they cost less up front than electric powered models. The liquid propane models are the best choice for safe use inside.
Electric Forklifts: The electric forklift models are powered by really huge batteries which must be recharged. The equipments do not create any polluting air emissions like these models do not burn any fuel. They are the right alternative for warehouses and indoor use. Moreover, electric forklifts are a lot quieter to run than other models and they do not need any fuel storage units. Among the disadvantages of the electric units is that they are unable to carry loads over 15,000 pounds and thus, have a slower acceleration compared to the units that utilize gasoline.
The forklift is particularly designed to move goods and materials easily and quickly. Mishaps do occur on a regular basis as is the case with nearly all types of machines. There are specific safety regulations which must be followed so as to keep everybody safe. The most important issue is recruiting a qualified operator, who could show you a valid lift truck license.
On the market nowadays, there are many different styles of forklifts available. Choosing which one is right for your particular requirements would be based on the type of environment your machinery would have to operate in, for instance, indoors or outdoors or both and what kinds of loads that you have to transport. When you understand your particular requirements, it would be easy to match up to the best type of lift truck. When you know your requirements exactly you could make the best decision.
Renting is one more good way to try out various models if you want to try out various features and see what kind of options are available. This is a cheaper way to know if the kind of equipment you have chosen could keep up with you on the job site.