There are actually 2 types of lift trucks, predicated whether or not they run on electricity or gas:
Internal Combustion Lift trucks: The IC forklift will run on fuels such as gas, liquid propane, diesel or compressed natural gas or CNG. Gas powered models are great for outdoor applications as they release gases and pollutants which are harmful to workers and pedestrians. Gas units are also great for use in the rain and in bad weather conditions. These models could carry weights about 15,000 to 35,000 pounds. Due to the fuel expenses and maintenance, units which run on gas are more expensive to use than units which run on electricity, however, they cost less up front compared to electric powered units. The liquid propane models are the right option for safe use in indoor applications.
Electric Lift Trucks: Electric lift trucks take batteries that require regular charging. Since these models do not burn any fuel, there are no emissions polluting the air with these machinery. They are the right alternative for indoor applications and warehouses. Also, electric forklifts do not require any fuel storage units and they are much quieter to run compared to other models. Among the disadvantages of electric powered units is that they can not lift loads more than 15,000 pounds and hence, have a slower acceleration compared to gasoline powered units.
Lift trucks are specifically made to easily and quickly transport heavy cargo with ease. As the case with most types of machines, unfortunately, lift truck mishaps do happen frequently. There are specific safety regulations which should be followed in order 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 kinds of forklifts available. Choosing which one is right for your specific needs will be based on the types of loads which you need to transport, what kind of environment your equipment would have to operate in, like for instance, outdoors or indoors or both. When you understand your specific requirements, it will be easy to match up to the best kind of lift truck. When you understand all your requirements precisely you could make a correct decision.
Renting is one more good way to check out various models if you want to check out different features and see what type of options are available. This is a less expensive way to know if the type of equipment you have chosen could keep up with you on the job location.