There are actually 2 kinds of lift trucks, based whether or not they run on gas or electricity:
Internal Combustion or IC Lift trucks: The IC forklift would run on fuels such as gas, liquid propane, compressed natural gas or CNG or diesel. Gas powered units are great for outdoor use as they release gases and pollutants which are harmful to workers and pedestrians. Gas units are also great to be used in the rain and in bad climate. These models can lift weights about 15,000 to 35,000 pounds. Due to the maintenance and fuel costs, models which run on gas are much more expensive to use than units which run on electricity, however, they cost a lot less up front compared to the electric models. The liquid propane units are the best option for safe use inside.
Electric Lift Trucks: The electric lift truck models are powered by very large batteries that should be recharged. The vehicles do not produce any polluting air emissions like these units do not burn any fuel. They are the best alternative for warehouses and indoor use. In addition, electric forklifts are a lot quieter to run compared to other units and they do not require any fuel storage units. One of the disadvantages of the electric units is that they are unable to carry cargo over 15,000 pounds and thus, have a slower acceleration than gasoline powered models.
The forklift is specially made to move things and supplies easily and quickly. Accidents do happen frequently like is the case with nearly all kinds of equipments. There are specific safety rules that need to be followed to be able to keep everyone safe. The most essential issue is recruiting a qualified operator, who could show you a valid lift truck license.
On the market today, there are many different kinds of forklifts available. Choosing which one is right for your particular needs would be based on the kind of environment your machine would have to operate in, for instance, outdoors or indoors or both and what kinds of loads which you need to transport. Once you understand your specific requirements, it would be very easy to match up to the best kind of lift truck. When you know all your needs exactly you would be able to make an accurate decision.
Renting is one more good way to check out different models if you want to check out various features and see what type of choices are available. This is a cheaper way to know if the type of machinery you have selected can keep up with you on the job site.