There are actually 2 types of forklifts, predicated whether or not they run on electricity or gas:
Internal Combustion Lift trucks: The IC Lift Trucks run on gas, liquid propane, CNG or compressed natural gas or diesel. The gas powered units are made to be used outdoors because they emit pollutants and gases that can be harmful if inhaled. Units that run on gasoline are also great to be used in the rain and in bad climate. These units could lift weights about 15,000 to 35,000 pounds. Because of the maintenance and fuel costs, the gas powered units are a lot more expensive to utilize compared to units that run on electricity, however, they cost less up front compared to electric powered units. The liquid propane units are the right option to be utilized indoors.
Electric Lift Trucks: Electric lift trucks take batteries which require regular charging. As these models do not burn any fuel, there are no emissions polluting the air with these machines. They are the right option for indoor applications and warehouses. Furthermore, electric forklifts are a lot quieter to run compared to other models and they do not need any fuel storage units. One of the disadvantages of electric powered models is that they are unable to carry loads more than 15,000 pounds and therefore, have a slower acceleration compared to gasoline powered models.
Forklifts are particularly made to quickly and easily move heavy loads with ease. Like the case with nearly all kinds of machinery, unfortunately, lift truck mishaps do happen on a regular basis. There are some safety regulations which must be followed to be able to keep everyone safe. The most vital problem is recruiting a qualified operator, who can show you a valid forklift license.
On the market nowadays, there are numerous different styles of forklifts available. Choosing which one is right for your particular requirements would be based on the kinds of loads which you have to transport, what type of environment your equipment will have to operate in, for instance, outdoors or indoors or both. When you understand your particular requirements, it would be really easy to match up to the best type of forklift. When you know your needs exactly you will be able to make an accurate decision.
Another great way to get first hand experience on the different forklift units is the try renting your forklift. This would also enable you to see all the possible choices available to you. This is a less expensive way to know if the equipment you have in mind could keep up with you on the job site.