Tire Types
Generally, cushion tires are solid tires that have no tread pattern. They are mostly designed to be used on smooth and solid surfaces, typically indoors. There are tread patterns available however, that are more suitable for various surface environments. The cushion tires are common on smooth warehouse floors and in similar applications.
Pneumatic tires on the other hand will require air and are designed particularly for loose surfaces on uneven ground. The pneumatic tire provides a higher ground clearance over solid tires. This raises the forklift's center of gravity and really reduces its rated lift capacity. Most often, pneumatic tires are used in rough terrain surroundings because of their ability to negotiate uneven surfaces in a smoother fashion. Many mining or agricultural operations and construction sites rely on these tires so as to make sure the equipment is able to travel as carefully and safe as possible.
Lift Capacity and Lift Height
It is important to know the maximum weight and dimensions of the loads you would be handling in order to determine the capacity of the vehicle needed. As well, you would have to know the maximum fork height required so as to stack or rack the loads. These factors, the load size as well as the lifting height, greatly affect the lift capacity of the truck. A bigger size load can move the vehicle's center of gravity and change the load combination. This decreases the lifting capacity of the machine as well as affects the height and the load being lifted. Using different types of attachments can also affect the overall capacity of the truck.
Mast Options
On the market today are various choices of forklift masts. These comprise: quad, triple, double and single masts. The number indicated the amount of sections on the mast. In different circumstances, you would not be required to make any choices as the lift height would dictate the kind of mast you will get, however, in trucks with very high lift heights, you can have a choice.