There are actually 2 kinds of lift trucks, predicated whether or not they run on electricity or gas:
Internal Combustion or IC Lift trucks: The IC lift truck would run on fuels such as liquid propane, gas, diesel or compressed natural gas or CNG. Gas powered units are great for outdoor applications since they release pollutants and gases that are harmful to workers and pedestrians. Gas units are also great to be used in bad weather conditions and in the rain. These units can lift weights about 15,000 to 35,000 pounds. Because of the maintenance and fuel expenses, units which run on gas are more costly to utilize than the electric models, although, they cost less up front compared to the electric models. Units that run on liquid propane are the best choice for safe use in indoor applications.
Electric Forklifts: Electric lift trucks take batteries which need regular charging. Because these units do not burn any fuel, there are no emissions polluting the air with these machinery. They are the right choice for indoor use and warehouses. As well, forklifts that run on electricity are a lot quieter to run compared to other units and they do not require any fuel storage units. Among the downsides of electric powered units is that they can not lift loads more than 15,000 pounds and therefore, have a slower acceleration compared to gasoline powered units.
The lift truck is particularly made to transport objects and materials easily and quickly. Mishaps do happen on a regular basis like is the case with nearly all types of machinery. There are some safety regulations which need to be followed so as to keep everybody safe. The most important problem is recruiting a trained operator, who could show you a valid forklift license.
On the market today, there are numerous different styles of forklifts available. Deciding which one is best for your particular needs would be based on the types of loads that you need to transport, what type of environment your machinery would need to operate in, like for instance, outdoors or indoors or both. When you know your particular needs, it will be very easy to match up to the right type of lift truck. When you understand all your needs precisely you can make an accurate choice.
Leasing is one more good way to check out various models if you want to check out various features and see what type of choices are available. This is a less expensive way to know if the machinery you have chosen could keep up with you on the job site.